Granite and quartz are two of the most popular choices for kitchen and bathroom countertops. But which one is better? Here is a detailed comparison of granite vs quartz countertops to help you decide which material is right for your home renovation or new construction project.
Introduction
When selecting countertop materials for the kitchen or bathroom, homeowners have to consider factors like appearance, durability, maintenance, cost, and resale value. Granite and quartz both have their advantages and disadvantages in these areas. Choosing between them often comes down to personal preference and lifestyle needs. This article provides an in-depth look at how granite and quartz compare on the most important countertop considerations.
Appearance
Granite
Granite is valued for its natural beauty and unique patterns. This natural stone is an igneous rock formed from magma beneath the earth’s surface. It contains quartz, mica, and feldspar minerals that give granite its signature speckled appearance. No two granite slabs are exactly alike due to the variations in mineral composition. Granite comes in a diverse array of colors from vivid blue to classic gray and white. The natural patterning gives depth and visual interest to granite countertops.
Quartz
Engineered quartz counters are made from crushed quartz combined with polymer resins and pigments. This allows quartz to be molded into consistent slabs with a uniform appearance. The aggregate gives a stone-like look, while the resins create a glossy, smooth surface. Quartz offers a wide selection of colors and patterns, including realistic marble and granite looks. The consistent coloration of quartz lends a clean, modern style. Some homeowners prefer the uniformity over the busier look of natural granite.
Winner: Tie
Beauty is subjective, so granite and quartz are tied when it comes to appearance. Granite offers an authentic stone look with more variation. Quartz provides more uniformity and contemporary styling. Your interior design preferences will determine whether you favor the consistent quartz aesthetic or the natural uniqueness of granite.
Durability
Granite
As one of the hardest structural stones, granite is very durable and resistant to scratches, cracks, and heat. It can last a lifetime with proper care. The dense composition makes granite highly impervious to stains, but acids like lemon juice or wine can dull and etch the surface over time. Granite stands up well to knives and sharp objects, offering excellent durability for heavy-use kitchen countertops.
Quartz
Quartz counters are also highly durable for kitchen and bath spaces. The engineered stone is non-porous, so it resists stains from spills. It is not prone to cracks or chips. The resin makes quartz more flexible than natural stone, so it is somewhat impact-resistant. However, quartz can be scratched or damaged by very sharp objects. Quartz rates just below granite in overall durability.
Winner: Granite
Natural granite is slightly tougher and more scratch-resistant than engineered quartz. For highest durability under heavy usage, granite is the winner. But quartz still performs excellently in terms of resisting wear, damage, and stains over time.
Maintenance
Granite
Granite requires periodic sealing to prevent staining and etching. It should be sealed upon installation and then every 1-2 years after that. Frequent wiping with a stone cleaner is needed to keep granite looking its best. acidic spills like wine, juice, and tomato sauce must be cleaned up quickly. Overall, granite necessitates more routine care and maintenance than quartz.
Quartz
Almost no maintenance is required for quartz countertops. The non-porous material never needs to be sealed and resists staining or etching. Simply cleaning with soap and water is enough to maintain its good looks. The ease of care is a major perk that makes quartz one of the most low-maintenance countertop materials.
Winner: Quartz
With simple soap and water cleaning, quartz counters are far easier to maintain than natural stone. Quartz requires no sealing and is not impacted by acidic spills. The hassle-free care of quartz makes it the clear winner over granite for maintenance.
Cost
Granite
Natural granite slabs are priced $40-$150 per square foot installed. More exotic granite types can cost up to $300 per square foot. The final price is influenced by the granite color, rarity, thickness, and edges. Granite requires professional fabrication and installation, which also impacts costs. Overall, granite is one of the more expensive countertop materials.
Quartz
Quartz countertops range from $80-140 installed per square foot on average. The price varies based on the brand, color patterns, and thickness. Quartz requires less labor for fabrication and installation than granite, keeping costs a bit lower. Overall, quartz lands in the middle of the price spectrum for countertops.
Winner: Quartz
Quartz counters offer more budget-friendly pricing compared to the premium costs of natural granite. In terms of affordability, quartz emerges as the winner over granite.
Resale Value
Granite
Natural stone countertops like granite can significantly enhance home resale value. Granite is regarded as a luxury material that increases a kitchen’s desirability. Home buyers appreciate both the aesthetic appeal of granite and its reputation for durability. The resale value makes the upfront investment in granite countertops worthwhile for many homeowners.
Quartz
Quartz counters also boost resale potential, but not to the same degree as granite. Quartz is perceived as less valuable than natural stone. But its resistance to wear does make quartz counters an asset at resale. Overall, quartz slightly enhances resale value, but does not command the premium price of granite.
Winner: Granite
For maximizing resale value, granite clearly wins out over quartz. Granite countertops are more likely to yield a return on investment when it comes time to sell the home. Quartz will also appeal to buyers but does not carry the same cache as natural stone.
Granite vs. Quartz: The Final Verdict
When choosing between granite vs quartz countertops, there are good arguments to be made for each material. Here are some key facts to help summarize the comparison:
- Appearance is a matter of taste; granite offers more variation while quartz has more uniformity.
- Granite is tougher and more scratch-resistant while quartz is stain-resistant.
- Quartz requires almost zero maintenance compared to the sealing needs of granite.
- Quartz costs $80-140 per square foot installed vs. $40-150 for granite.
- Granite adds more resale value for a return on investment.
For most homeowners, the decision between granite and quartz countertops comes down to aesthetics and budget. If you love the unique beauty of natural stone and want to maximize resale potential, granite is likely the better choice. If cost savings and low maintenance are priorities, quartz makes an excellent option. Carefully weigh your needs to choose the right countertop to suit your lifestyle and home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Granite vs. Quartz Countertops
Is granite better than quartz?
There is no definitive “better” option between granite and quartz. Granite is harder, more heat and scratch resistant, and offers more unique natural beauty. But quartz is stain-proof, requires no sealing, and costs less. For resale value, granite may be considered better. But for maintenance, quartz wins out.
Is quartz more expensive than granite?
No, quartz is generally less expensive than granite. Installed costs for quartz start around $80 per square foot while granite starts around $40. High-end granite can reach $150 per square foot, much pricier than even luxury quartz options.
Does quartz add value like granite?
Granite countertops add more value at resale than quartz. As a natural stone, granite is seen as more high-end and can command a premium price. But quartz can also boost property value slightly thanks to its attractive appearance and durability. Just not as much as granite.
Is quartz bad for resale value?
No, installing quartz countertops does not negatively impact resale value. Quartz still conveys an updated, quality kitchen. And it holds up well against wear and tear. Granite outperforms quartz for return on investment, but quartz counters can still recoup a good portion of their cost.
Does quartz stain easier than granite?
No, quartz does not stain easier than granite. In fact, quartz is essentially non-porous and stain-proof. Granite can absorb stains if not properly sealed. Quartz resists stains even without sealing. For resisting stains, quartz has a clear advantage over granite.
Conclusion
Granite and quartz both make excellent options for kitchen and bathroom countertops. Granite provides a high-end look and commands top dollar at resale, but requires more maintenance. Easy-care quartz offers style and durability at a more affordable price point. For many homeowners, the decision comes down to natural stone beauty versus low-maintenance convenience. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of granite vs. quartz to decide which material best suits your needs and lifestyle. With proper care, you can enjoy beautiful, durable countertops for years to come.