Granite and quartz are two of the most popular countertop materials used in kitchens and bathrooms today. Both offer durability, aesthetics, and functionality, yet there are some key differences between the two that are worth considering when deciding on which to choose for your home renovation or new construction project. We’ll go over the pros, cons, costs, appearances, maintenance requirements, and other factors in comparing granite vs. quartz countertops.
Durability and Stain Resistance
When it comes to durability, both granite and quartz make excellent choices as countertop materials. However, quartz edges out granite just slightly in terms of overall durability and stain resistance.
Granite is formed naturally from minerals and rocks, making it extremely hard and difficult to scratch or damage. It can withstand heat up to 212 degrees Fahrenheit before any possible damage may occur. Granite is resistant to staining, but acidic liquids like wine, tomato sauce, and citrus juices can potentially etch the surface leaving dull spots if not wiped up quickly. Hard water deposits can also build up on granite over time. Proper sealing is required periodically to protect the stone.
Quartz countertops are engineered from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and polymers. This makes quartz non-porous, so it is impervious to staining from spills and everyday use. Quartz is harder on the Mohs hardness scale, rating around a 7 compared to granite’s 6 to 7, so it is more scratch resistant. Quartz can withstand temperatures up to 300 degrees Fahrenheit.
Overall, quartz offers slightly better stain protection and durability than natural stone granite. But both materials are excellent choices for longevity and worry-free maintenance as countertops.
Appearance
Granite and quartz both come in a wide range of colors and patterns to suit any design aesthetic. However, there are some key differences in their visual styles.
Granite has a natural beauty with lots of variation in its mineral composition, leading to striking and unique patterns in every slab. No two granite slabs are exactly the same. Granite can have dramatic veining, speckling, and movement in its appearance. Popular granite colors include black, white, grays, tans, browns, and multi-colored blends.
Quartz has a more uniform look, as the manufacturing process creates consistent speckled patterns across a slab. However, technology has allowed quartz manufacturers to closely mimic the look of natural stone with realistic veining and movement. Quartz also comes in a diverse color palette, including solid colors and blended tones. Some popular quartz colors are whites, grays, beiges, browns, and blacks.
Granite offers a one-of-a-kind natural pattern, while quartz provides more consistency and customization in its aesthetics. Ultimately, the look you prefer comes down to personal taste.
Costs
In general, granite countertops tend to cost less than quartz. The exact prices can vary based on stone type, color, edge profiles, and more. But on average, expect to pay $40-$100 per square foot installed for granite, compared to $80-$150 per square foot installed for quartz.
Granite’s lower cost is mainly attributed to it being a natural material that is abundantly available. Quartz costs more because it is engineered, so manufacturing and supply tend to run higher. Exotic granite varieties can run on the higher end, while some discounted quartz products are starting to come down in price.
It’s recommended to get 3-5 quotes from countertop fabricators to compare precise costs for materials, fabrication, and installation. But in terms of ballpark figures, granite runs lower on price than quartz.
Maintenance
Maintenance is another area where granite and quartz differ. Granite requires periodic sealing to prevent stains from penetrating into the porous stone. Quartz does not need any sealing or conditioning treatments.
For both countertop materials, using coasters under glasses and wiping up spills immediately is advised to prevent damage. Quartz needs virtually no maintenance beyond routine cleaning with soap and water. Granite needs to be sealed upon installation and then every 1-2 years thereafter, depending on use.
Using a granite cleaner or stone soap weekly helps keep granite in top condition. Staying on top of sealing and cleaning minimizes the maintenance needs for natural granite. Quartz simply needs an occasional wipe down with a damp cloth, keeping maintenance easy and fuss-free.
Heat Tolerance
An important distinction between granite and quartz is their level of heat tolerance. Quartz can better withstand direct heat exposure from pots, pans, and other cooking equipment.
Granite can potentially crack, chip, or sustain damage when exposed to temperatures beyond 212 degrees Fahrenheit. Always use trivets or hot pads when placing extremely hot pans on granite countertops. The thermal shock of sudden, extreme heat exposure is what poses a risk to granite.
Quartz has a higher heat tolerance, able to withstand temperatures up to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. As an engineered stone, quartz can stand up to hot cookware better than natural granite. However, the use of trivets or hot pads is still recommended to preserve the beauty of quartz surfaces.
If your kitchen routinely deals with extremely hot pots and pans straight from the stovetop or oven, quartz offers a bit more heat protection than granite. For normal kitchen uses, both materials work well but quartz has the edge for heat tolerance.
Availability of Colors and Patterns
The range of colors and patterns available is an important point of distinction for granite vs. quartz. Granite’s natural beauty yields more variation and movement within a slab. Quartz offers more uniformity across batches and slabs.
No two granite slabs are exactly alike, giving each one a unique appearance that cannot be replicated. Granite quarries across the globe offer a diverse array of natural color patterns, from solid black slabs to vivid blue-green designs. This makes granite a truly one-of-a-kind material.
The manufacturing process of quartz allows a wider range of colors and patterns to be created, but they will be more uniform throughout multiple slabs. Quartz gives a cleaner, more tailored look compared to granite’s natural variation. Through technology advancements, quartz can now closely mimic granite and other natural stones.
Ultimately granite provides an authentic uniqueness while quartz allows for greater customization and consistency. Much comes down to if you prefer the irregular beauty of natural granite or engineered uniformity of quartz. Both offer tremendous diversity in colors, patterns, and styles.
Porosity
An inherent difference between natural and engineered stone is that granite is porous while quartz is not. This impacts their functionality and maintenance needs.
Granite forms over centuries in the earth, leaving tiny natural pits and fissures throughout the stone. This makes granite absorbent, so spills and liquids can potentially soak in if not wiped up promptly. Acids like wine, vinegar, and citrus juice can etch granite if left to sit. Oils can also penetrate and lead to stains.
Quartz is non-porous, giving it a major advantage in kitchen settings. Engineered resins fill in any tiny spaces between particles, making quartz impervious to stains. Spills and messes can sit on quartz without any worries of permanent damage. However, all spills should still be cleaned up in a timely manner.
Granite requires periodic sealing to prevent stains and damage, while quartz needs no such sealing treatments. For busy kitchens prone to lots of spills and splatters, quartz’s non-porous quality makes maintenance easier. But sealing and prompt cleanup provides adequate stain protection for natural granite.
Environmental Impact
For some homeowners, the environmental footprint of building materials is an important factor to consider. In terms of sustainability, there are some differences between granite and quartz.
Natural granite is mined and quarried from the earth. There are concerns around mining practices and transporting heavy materials long distances. But granite is an abundant natural resource that can last a lifetime with proper care. Granite’s long lifespan makes it a reasonably sustainable option.
Quartz contains high percentages of natural quartz but requires additional mined resources and manufacturing. The resins and polymers used in production raise some environmental and health concerns, as do emissions from manufacturing plants. However, green building practices are expanding in the engineered stone industry to reduce quartz’s ecological impact. There are also some recycled content quartz products available.
Overall, granite may have a lighter environmental impact given its fully natural composition. But quartz is an attractive human-made alternative that is increasing sustainability initiatives. Both offer eco-friendly attributes if responsibly sourced. Weighing granite vs. quartz by environmental factors shows pros and cons for each material.
Pros and Cons Comparison
Here is a helpful pros and cons chart that summarizes some of the key differences between granite and quartz:
Granite
Pros:
- Natural beauty and variation in patterns
- Lower cost
- Heat resistant to 212°F
- Abundant material with good availability
- Environmentally friendly from natural composition
Cons:
- Porous and requires periodic sealing
- Can stain, etch from acids
- More maintenance required
- Limited colors and less customization
- Not as scratch resistant as quartz
Quartz
Pros:
- Extremely hard and scratch resistant
- Non-porous so very stain resistant
- Heat tolerant up to 300°F
- Requires little maintenance
- Consistent patterns across slabs
- Wide range of colors and customization
Cons:
- Higher cost than granite
- Some environmental concerns from manufacturing
- Less natural appearance than real stone
- Engineered look may not appeal to some
- Doesn’t have the unique markings of granite
Typical Applications
Granite and quartz are both well-suited to almost any home application. They are most commonly used for kitchen countertops but also work beautifully for bathrooms, fireplace surrounds, backsplashes, vanities, and more. Here are typical uses for each material:
Granite:
- Kitchen countertops
- Kitchen island tops
- Bathroom vanities and counters
- Shower surrounds
- Fireplace hearths and facades
- Outdoor kitchens and grill islands
- Wet bars
- Coffee tables and sofa tables
Quartz:
- Kitchen countertops
- Kitchen island tops
- Bathroom vanities and counters
- Backsplashes
- Fireplace mantels and facades
- Home office desktops
- Wet bars
- Laundry and utility room countertops
Both granite and quartz make excellent choices for heavy-use areas like kitchens and baths. Their durability and water resistance allow wide application in the home. Personal style preference will dictate which material aligns best for your space.
Installation and Fabrication
The installation and fabrication process is similar for granite and quartz countertops. Both require precise measurements, computer templating, custom cutting, edging, and professional installation. There are just a few differences.
Granite slabs are thicker, usually 3 centimeters or so. Thinner granite can crack under stress. Quartz is engineered as thinner slabs around 2 centimeters, but strength remains the same. Seams may be more visible with thinner quartz material.
Quartz is easier for fabricators to cut and work with compared to very hard granite. Intricate edging and designs are simpler to achieve with quartz. Granite requires specialty tools and techniques that add cost.
Overall, both materials involve custom fabrication and professional installation. But quartz offers a bit more flexibility for complex designs. For standard countertop needs, the process is essentially the same for granite or quartz.
Finding a Fabricator
Choosing a top-quality fabricator is key for both granite and quartz countertops. Look for an experienced professional that specializes in your material of choice. Be sure to review examples of their work and check reviews or references.
A good fabricator will:
- Provide a detailed quote for materials, fabrication, installation, and any other costs
- Accurately template and measure your space
- Have an established relationship with a materials supplier
- Own their own fabrication workshop outfitted with proper stoneworking tools
- Employ experienced installers for a quality finished product
- Offer a warranty or guarantee on their workmanship
Finding a fabricator that is an expert in granite, quartz, or both will ensure your satisfaction through the fabrication and installation process.
Is One Better Than the Other?
When comparing granite vs quartz countertops, neither material is clearly better overall. Each has advantages that make it an excellent choice for countertops:
Granite pros:
- Unique natural beauty and patterns
- Lower cost
- Can be repaired and re-polished if damaged
Quartz pros:
- Broader range of colors and styles
- Extremely durable and heat resistant
- Easy maintenance
Granite brings unmatchable natural design while quartz offers greater consistency and fewer maintenance requirements. Weighing the pros and cons of granite and quartz countertops helps inform the right decision for your home, needs, and preferences.
Many homeowners choose granite for its timeless, elegant beauty at a more reasonable price point. Others select durable, low-maintenance quartz that fits their lifestyle and design tastes. Both can be great options that provide years of enjoyment when installed properly.
FAQs
Below are answers to some frequently asked questions about granite and quartz countertops:
Is granite or quartz better?
There is no definitively “better” option between granite vs quartz. Each has advantages that make it an excellent choice. Granite offers natural beauty, while quartz provides durability and easy care. Weigh your priorities in terms of appearance, maintenance, cost, and style to choose the best one for your needs.
Is granite or quartz more expensive?
In most cases, installed granite countertops cost less per square foot than installed quartz. Exact pricing depends on the slab chosen and other fabrication factors. But granite from a cost perspective generally runs lower than quartz.
Does quartz stain?
No, quartz does not stain since it is non-porous. Liquids and spills cannot penetrate the surface. However, prolonged exposure can still damage quartz, so prompt cleanup is advised. Quartz requires very little maintenance overall.
Is quartz healthier than granite?
There are not significant health differences between materials. Granite is a natural material that requires sealing. Quartz is engineered but is considered non-toxic. Both are common in home kitchens and bathrooms without health risks when kept clean. Ultimately it comes down to personal comfort level.
Is granite going out of style?
Granite has been used in homes for centuries and remains widely popular. As tastes and trends change, updates in granite colors and patterns help it maintain relevance. While newer engineered surfaces have gained traction, natural granite persists as a timeless, beautiful choice.
Does quartz hold its value?
In general, granite and quartz alike hold their value well if properly cared for. Granite may increase value slightly more over time as natural stone. But quality quartz countertops also provide a good return on investment like most home upgrades.
Is quartz more modern than granite?
Some associate quartz with a more contemporary, streamlined look compared to classic granite. But quartz styles are now available to mimic granite, marble, and other natural stones. Ultimately both granite and quartz come in a diverse range of aesthetic styles. Personal taste dictates which feels more “modern” for your design vision.
Conclusion
When choosing between granite and quartz countertops, key considerations include appearance, maintenance, durability, cost, and style preferences. Granite brings natural uniqueness while quartz offers customization and easy care.
Thoroughly research materials, visit showrooms, and view samples before deciding on granite or quartz. Get quotes from experienced local fabricators. Consider your lifestyle needs and design goals. With proper selection, installation, and care, both granite and quartz make excellent countertop materials that can give years of daily use and enjoyment.