Quartz and granite are two of the most popular countertop materials, and many homeowners find themselves trying to decide between the two. Both offer unique benefits and drawbacks, so choosing between them largely comes down to personal preference and lifestyle factors. This article examines quartz vs granite countertops in detail to help you determine which is better for your needs.

Overview of Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops, also known as engineered stone, have surged in popularity in recent years. Here’s a quick overview of some key facts about quartz:

Made from ground natural quartz crystals blended with polymer resins and pigments
Hard, nonporous surface resistant to scratches, stains, and heat
Wide variety of colors and patterns available
Does not need to be sealed
No ongoing maintenance required
Seamless appearance
Hygienic and easy to clean
More consistent in pattern and color than natural stone
Resists most stains and etching from acidic foods
Not heat or scratch proof like granite
Manmade material rather than natural stone

Overview of Granite Countertops

Granite is a classic natural stone that remains a top choice for many homeowners. Key facts about granite countertops:

Made from solid, natural granite rock formed deep underground
Available in wide range of natural colors, patterns, and surface finishes
Resistant to heat, scratches, and stains but can etch when exposed to acid
Hard, durable surface but can chip if subjected to a heavy impact
Natural material, so some color variations are normal
Needs periodic sealing to prevent staining
Can harbor bacteria if not properly sealed and cleaned
Withstands heat better than quartz
Natural material quarried in large slabs

Comparison of Quartz vs Granite Countertops

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s directly compare quartz and granite across some key factors:

Appearance

Quartz: More uniform in color and pattern. Manufactured in a factory so color is consistent. Wide variety of colors and styles.

Granite: Natural variations in color and pattern. No two slabs are exactly alike. Subtle swirls and flecks add visual interest.

Maintenance

Quartz: Requires very little maintenance. Wipe spills up promptly and clean occasionally with soap and water.

Granite: Needs periodic sealing to prevent staining. May need yearly resealing. Needs special cleaning products to keep it looking its best.

Durability

Quartz: Withstands scratches, stains, and heat very well. But not totally impervious to damage from impact or heavy blows.

Granite: Very hard, durable surface but can chip if subjected to heavy impact. Resilient but not damage-proof.

Heat Tolerance

Quartz: Can withstand brief exposure to moderately hot items but prolonged heat can cause damage. Not ideal for frequent very hot pans.

Granite: High heat tolerance. Can withstand sustained heat better than quartz. Good for avid cooks.

Price

Quartz: $50-120 per square foot installed. More affordable than natural stone overall.

Granite: $40-150 per square foot. More expensive than quartz on average. High-end granite is pricier.

Hygiene

Quartz: Nonporous so resistant to bacteria growth. Easy to keep clean.

Granite: Can harbor bacteria if not sealed properly. Needs disinfecting to maximize hygiene.

Eco-Friendliness

Quartz: Manmade material with some natural components. Not biodegradable.

Granite: Natural stone. Considered more eco-friendly than engineered quartz.

Pros and Cons of Quartz Countertops

Pros:

Extremely durable and low-maintenance surface
Resists scratches, stains, heat, and etching
Easy to clean and keep looking new
Seamless, stylish appearance
Hygienic, nonporous material
Wide variety of colors and patterns

Cons:

Not heat or scratch proof
Less durable than granite for heavy impacts
Manmade rather than natural material
Limited number of suppliers
Can be prone to damage if low quality
Not considered eco-friendly

Pros and Cons of Granite Countertops

Pros:

Gorgeous natural stone with one-of-a-kind look
Withstands heat very well
Extremely durable if properly maintained
Resists scratches and stains
Easy to sanitize and keep germ-free
Eco-friendly and sustainable

Cons:

Needs periodic sealing
Porous and requires special cleaning
Can chip or crack if subjected to heavy impact
Natural material with variations in shading
Can harbor bacteria if not properly sealed
Limited number of color choices

Key Factors to Consider

Choosing between quartz and granite ultimately comes down to your priorities:

Maintenance – Quartz is virtually maintenance-free while granite requires sealing and special cleaning.
Appearance – Granite offers a classic, natural look while quartz provides uniform, vibrant colors.
Durability – Granite is harder and better withstands impact but quartz resists scratches well.
Price – Quartz is generally more affordable than natural granite for most kitchens.
Heat – Granite handles hot pans better over time. Quartz can be damaged by sustained heat.
Hygiene – Nonporous quartz resists bacteria growth better than porous granite.

The Bottom Line

Quartz and granite each have their advantages. Quartz performs well for busy homeowners who want stylish, low-maintenance countertops, while granite is ideal for those who love the look of natural stone and don’t mind the required upkeep. Focus on the factors most important for your lifestyle when deciding between quartz vs granite. And consider your cabinetry, flooring, and overall kitchen design since the right countertop choice depends heavily on its pairing with other materials. Both quartz and granite are great options that will enhance your home’s aesthetics and value.

Frequently Asked Questions About Quartz vs Granite Countertops

Here are answers to some common questions homeowners have about quartz and granite countertops:

Is quartz or granite better?

There is no definitive “better” option. Quartz is better in terms of being low maintenance while granite is more natural and heat-resistant. Choose based on your top priorities.

Is quartz cheaper than granite?

On average, yes. Quartz runs $50-120 per square foot installed compared to granite’s $40-150 per square foot price range. High-end granite can be more expensive than many quartz options.

Does quartz need to be sealed?

No. One of the benefits of quartz is that it never needs sealing due to its nonporous surface. Granite must be sealed periodically.

Is quartz bad for the environment?

Quartz contains some natural materials like quartz crystals but also includes resins and polymers. It is manmade and not considered particularly eco-friendly or sustainable compared to natural stone.

Can quartz get scratched?

Quartz is very scratch resistant but not totally scratch proof. Cutting directly on a quartz surface or subjecting it to a heavy impact can potentially damage it over time. Use cutting boards and treat it with care.

Is quartz healthier than granite?

Quartz rarely harbors bacteria or microbes due to its nonporous surface. Granite can become a breeding ground for germs if not properly sealed and sanitized. In that regard, quartz is considered more hygienic.

Does quartz stain easily?

No. Simple spills wipe up easily, and quartz does not require sealing to prevent staining. However, prolonged exposure to strong chemicals could potentially stain a quartz surface.

Is granite still popular?

Yes. Many homeowners still prefer natural granite because of its timeless beauty and prestige. It remains one of the top choices although quartz has gained popularity.

Does granite need to be resealed yearly?

It depends on usage, but yearly sealing is often recommended for granite countertops. Heavily used areas may need resealing every 6-12 months. Neglecting to reseal regularly will lead to staining over time.

Conclusion

Quartz and granite both make excellent, durable countertop materials that add beauty and value to any home. Quartz requires little maintenance, offers consistency, and resists damage well. Granite provides a sense of luxury with its natural patterns but requires more care. Overall, quartz tends to suit busy families well, while serious cooks and design enthusiasts often gravitate toward granite. Consider how each material aligns with your priorities, cooking habits, and design vision. And consult an experienced countertop pro to help weigh the quartz vs granite decision for your specific needs. With proper care, either surface can provide lasting enjoyment and stand up well in your home.

What’s Better for Countertops: Quartz or Granite?