Granite and quartz are two of the most popular choices for kitchen and bathroom countertops. Both have their advantages and disadvantages in terms of appearance, durability, maintenance, and cost. Here is an in-depth comparison of quartz vs. granite countertops to help you decide which is better for your needs.
Appearance
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that is quarried and cut into slabs. It is available in a wide range of colors and patterns, from solid neutrals to bold multicolored stone with veining. No two granite slabs are alike, giving each countertop a unique, one-of-a-kind look. Granite can be polished to a glossy shine or honed to a matte finish.
Quartz
Quartz countertops are engineered stone made from crushed quartz particles bound together with resin. The manufacturing process allows quartz to be molded into consistent colors and patterns. Quartz offers a more uniform look than natural granite. While less varied, there are many color and pattern options to choose from including solid colors, speckles, and simulated veining. Quartz has a smooth, glossy finish.
Winner: Granite, for its natural beauty and unique patterning that no two countertops are exactly alike.
Durability
Granite
As a natural stone, granite is very hard and resistant to scratching, chipping, and heat. However, it is somewhat porous so liquids can potentially stain it without proper sealing. Granite is durable enough to last a lifetime with proper care.
Quartz
Quartz is one of the hardest countertop materials available making it practically non-porous and highly scratch, chip, and heat resistant. It does not require ongoing sealing like natural stone. Quartz is tough enough to withstand years of heavy daily use while still looking like new.
Winner: Quartz, for its superior durability and low maintenance requirements.
Maintenance
Granite
- Requires periodic reapplication of sealant, typically once a year, to prevent stains from penetrating the stone’s porous surface.
- Must be cleaned cautiously using gentle stone cleaners, never harsh chemicals.
- Should be promptly cleaned after spills to minimize the chance of stains.
- Can develop cracks or chips over time if subjected to heavy impacts. Will need professional repair in such cases.
Quartz
- No sealing required.
- Easy to keep clean using just soap and water. Tough stains can be removed with a gentle cleaner.
- Resistant to chips, cracks, and permanent staining with proper care.
- Stains much less likely than granite, but still requires some maintenance.
Winner: Quartz, thanks to its non-porousness and stain resistance. Less sealing and simpler cleaning makes maintenance easier.
Cost
Granite
- $40-$100 per square foot installed.
- On the higher end of countertop pricing.
- Greater variety typically increases cost. Unique granite patterns can cost over $100/sq.ft.
Quartz
- $70-$120 per square foot installed.
- Slightly more expensive than granite on average.
- More budget-friendly options available under $80/sq.ft.
Winner: Granite is generally a more economical option, especially for basic granite colors and patterns. Unique granite can rival quartz in price.
Which is Better for Your Home?
For a natural look with unmatched variations in coloring and patterning, granite reigns supreme. The tradeoff is more required maintenance.
For extreme durability and ease of care, engineered quartz countertops are the practical choice. The consistency of quartz can lack the wow factor of granite’s unique beauty though.
Granite tends to offer better value for the money on average. It wins out if getting the most square footage covered for your budget is a priority.
Quartz makes more sense if you want a low maintenance, stain and damage resistant surface. Busy households with children or accident-prone cooks favor quartz.
Both granite and quartz make excellent choices for kitchen and bath countertops. Consider the factors above that matter most to your home and lifestyle to decide whether rugged natural beauty or indestructible practicality is more important. Whichever you choose, you can enjoy lovely, durable countertops that should serve you well for many years with proper care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more heat resistant, granite or quartz?
Quartz is more resistant to heat damage from hot pans and other high temperature items. Granite can crack or chip if subjected to extreme heat. Always use trivets with both countertop materials.
Does quartz stain as easily as granite?
No, quartz is non-porous and highly stain resistant. It requires very little maintenance compared to natural stone granite. Any spills should still be cleaned up promptly from quartz surfaces though.
Is quartz cheaper or more expensive than granite?
On average, installed quartz countertops range from $70-120 per square foot while granite ranges from $40-100 per square foot. So quartz is often slightly pricier than granite, but granite can reach higher price points for rare patterns.
How often does granite need to be sealed?
Granite countertops should be sealed every 6-12 months using a professional grade sealing product specifically formulated for natural stone. More frequent sealing may be needed for heavily used kitchen countertops.
Is quartz more modern looking than granite?
Quartz often appears more sleek, uniform, and contemporary compared to the earthy, speckled look of granite. However, granite suppliers offer many modern styles too. Both materials suit a range of home design aesthetics.
The Bottom Line
When choosing between quartz and granite countertops, weigh your priorities in terms of appearance, maintenance, durability, and affordability. Granite brings natural beauty and lower cost while quartz offers indestructibility and convenience. Keep your needs in mind and you can select the best countertop to enhance your kitchen or bath for years to come.
In summary, here are some key takeaways when comparing quartz vs. granite:
- Granite provides a one-of-a-kind natural look while quartz offers uniformity.
- Quartz requires essentially no maintenance while granite needs periodic sealing.
- Quartz resists scratches, stains, and chips better than granite.
- Granite tends to be more budget-friendly, but quartz has affordable options too.
- Consider your own lifestyle, design tastes, and budget when choosing between them.