Granite and quartz are two of the most popular choices for kitchen and bathroom countertops. Though they share some similarities, there are important differences that impact their appearance, performance, and cost. Understanding the key distinctions can help homeowners decide which material is the better fit for their space and budget.
An Overview of Granite Countertops
Granite is a natural stone that is mined from quarries around the world. It is an igneous rock that forms deep beneath the earth’s surface and is composed primarily of quartz, feldspar, and mica minerals.
- Some key characteristics of granite include:
- Available in a vast array of colors and patterns from solid hues to bold variegations
- Resistant to heat, scratches, and stains
- Very durable and can last a lifetime with proper care
- Can be polished to a glossy or honed matte finish
- Sealed to resist staining and etching
- Each slab is completely unique
- Pros:
- Timeless, classic beauty that enhances home value
- Withstands heavy usage
- Won’t easily scratch, stain or scorch
- Can be refinished and resealed over time
- Cons:
- Expensive – natural stone pricing
- Can chip if subjected to heavy impact
- Porous and requires resealing
- Slab differences mean color variations
Granite remains a top choice for its elegance and durability, but requires some maintenance to keep it looking its best.
What is Quartz Countertop Material?
Quartz countertops provide a popular alternative to classic granite and other natural stones. Sometimes called engineered stone, quartz is made from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments under intense heat and pressure.
- Some key qualities of quartz include:
- Non-porous so it never needs to be sealed
- Resists moisture, stains, mildew, and bacteria growth
- Can mimic natural stone as well as solid colors
- Heat, scratch, and impact resistant
- Easy maintenance – just soap and water for cleaning
- Consistent patterning with little variation between slabs
- Pros of Quartz Countertops:
- Durable, stain proof surface
- Minimal maintenance required
- Wide range of colors and styles
- Seamless look possible with slab quartz
- More affordable than granite
- Consistent quality with little variation
- Cons of Quartz Surfaces:
- Can be prone to damage from heavy impacts
- Limited options for very dark colors
- Lacks the prestigious cachet of natural granite
- Patterning tends to be repetitive from slab to slab
With its durability and fuss-free care, quartz offers an appealing option for busy kitchens and baths.
Comparing the Costs of Granite vs. Quartz
When evaluating countertops on appearance alone, personal taste will determine whether you prefer the unique beauty of natural granite or the high-tech vibe of engineered quartz. But for many homeowners, cost often has the final say in choosing a new countertop material. So how do granite and quartz compare price-wise?
- Granite is exclusively a natural stone product, mined from a finite number of quarries worldwide. Therefore it is subject to scarcity that impacts pricing.
- Material cost per square foot for granite slabs ranges from $40 on the very low end, to over $200 for rare or imported exotic stones.
- The average price for typical granite is $50-$70 per square foot just for the material.
- Fabrication and installation will add $40-$100 per square foot to the final cost.
- In total, expect to budget $80-$200 per square foot installed for a granite countertop.
- Quartz countertops deliver the look of natural stone but with more budget-friendly pricing:
- Raw quartz material runs $45-$80 per square foot.
- Add fabrication at $40-$100 per square foot.
- Fully installed, quartz countertops cost $100-$175 per square foot on average.
- More affordable than the average granite, and always priced less than exotic granite types.
Keep in mind that color and style impact pricing for both materials. Unique granite with bold patterns or unusual colors will fall at the higher end of the cost range. Premium quartz lines from name brands like Caesarstone also come at a higher square foot price.
Key Price Factors to Consider
A few other variables to factor into your countertop budgeting:
- Country/Region of Origin: Imported granite from Brazil or Italy carries a higher price tag than domestic American granite. For quartz, American or European engineered stone costs more than quartz fabricated overseas.
- Unusual Colors: For either material, uncommon darker hues like black, bold variances like blue granite, or unique patterns cost more due to scarcity and high demand.
- Thickness: Standard is 3 cm for granite and quartz countertops. At 2 cm thickness, savings range from $5-$15 per square foot. Jumbo slabs at 4 cm cost an additional $15-$30 per square foot.
- Edge Profiles: Decorative edging like ogee, bevel, and more labor-intensive edges add $10-$25 per linear foot. Standard eased or straight edges are the most affordable.
- Sink Cut-Outs: Cutting the countertop opening for an undermount sink adds $150-$200 to the total project cost.
- Special Shapes: Simple rectangular layouts are most budget-friendly. Custom shapes, edges, curves and seams will increase fabrication time and expenses.
Should I Choose Granite or Quartz for My Countertops?
With their distinct characteristics and pricing considerations, is quartz or granite the better overall value for your next kitchen or bath remodel? A few key factors to keep in mind as you decide:
- How important is maintaining the look of a natural stone versus a lower maintenance, seamless appearance?
- Is your style more traditional or contemporary? Granite fits classic spaces while quartz suits modern aesthetics.
- Do you require high heat resistance like behind a range, or impact resistance for a busy kitchen?
- What is your total budget for the project, and what material cost fits comfortably?
- Is a uniform look from slab to slab more appealing, or do you enjoy the unique variations of natural stone?
By weighing your priorities for appearance, performance, and price, you can best determine whether to invest in the timeless elegance of granite or modern practicality of quartz for your home. Carefully measuring your layout and getting quotes for both materials is highly recommended before finalizing your countertop selection. With an informed decision, you’re sure to end up with a beautiful, durable surface that will retain its value and looks for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between quartz and granite countertops?
On average, installed quartz countertops range from $100-$175 per square foot while granite countertops cost $80-$200 per square foot installed. So there is some overlap, but quartz prices tend to fall on the lower end while exotic granites occupy the high end.
Is quartz cheaper than granite?
In most cases, yes. Due to granite’s natural supply limitations, quartz nearly always costs less per square foot than granite of comparable quality and style. Only very inexpensive granite types price lower than some quartz options.
Is quartz worth the extra cost over granite?
That depends on your priorities. For lower maintenance, quartz is easily worth the minor price premium over basic granite. But for unmatched natural beauty and prestige, exotic granite warrants its higher cost for many homeowners.
Does quartz add value like granite does?
Granite is still viewed as a more valuable and luxurious material overall. But high-end quartz countertops do boost resale value significantly more than laminate or tile. Either granite or quartz will prove to be a worthwhile investment in your kitchen’s value.
Is quartz cheaper than laminate?
No. High-quality quartz countertops will run $80-$120 per square foot. Laminate countertops cost $20-$50 installed. Durability and aesthetics account for quartz’s higher prices versus laminate’s cost-saving construction.
Conclusion
With their unique blend of aesthetics and practical attributes, both natural granite and engineered quartz make smart investments in enduring kitchen countertops. For most homeowners, the slightly lower cost of quartz countertops provides an enticingly affordable option that does not compromise on style or performance. Yet premium exotic granite remains the gold standard, commanding its higher prices for unparalleled elegance. By weighing all the variables and priorities for your space, one material will clearly stand out as the ideal match of beauty and value. With smart planning and careful budgeting, you can enjoy the countertop surface of your dreams as a focal point of your home for decades to come.