When choosing a material for kitchen or bathroom countertops, two of the most popular options are quartz and granite. But which one costs more? The answer depends on several factors.
Introduction
Granite and quartz are both natural stone materials that make beautiful, durable countertops. Granite is an igneous rock made of interlocking mineral crystals, while quartz is composed of one of the hardest minerals on earth. Both offer distinct aesthetic looks, with granite displaying a wider variety of colors and patterns.
When deciding between granite and quartz, cost is often a key consideration. Here we’ll examine the cost differences between the two materials, look at what impacts pricing, and help you determine which investment makes the most financial sense for your home.
Upfront Costs
Looking strictly at upfront material and installation costs, quartz countertops tend to be more expensive than granite.
On average, expect to pay:
- Quartz: $80-$100 per square foot installed
- Granite: $50-$80 per square foot installed
Quartz is man-made by combining crushed quartz with resins and pigments. It comes prefab in slabs from a factory. Granite is mined from quarries in large blocks and then cut into slabs. The manufacturing process for quartz is more complex, resulting in a higher price point.
However, granite pricing can vary dramatically based on the stone’s quality and origin. Exotic granites imported from Brazil or Italy can cost up to $150 per square foot.
For standard granite and quartz options, quartz consistently costs $10-$30 more per square foot.
Factors Affecting Price
Several key factors impact the price of both quartz and granite slabs:
- Color and pattern: More unique colors and patterns command higher prices for both materials.
- Thickness: Standard thickness is 3 cm for quartz and 3 cm for granite. Thicker slabs (4+ cm) cost more.
- Quality/rarity: With granite, rare varieties found in remote quarries bring premium pricing.
- Edges: Decorative edges like ogee, bevel, and eased add $10-$15 per linear foot.
- Transportation costs: Importing exotic granite from far away increases material costs.
- Supplier pricing: Big box stores charge less than specialty kitchen and bath showrooms.
Long-Term Value
When examining the total cost difference between granite and quartz, it’s important to consider long-term value beyond just upfront costs. Three key factors affect long-term value:
1. Lifespan
- Granite is extremely durable and can last a lifetime with proper care.
- Quartz is engineered to be very durable, but as a man-made material it likely won’t last quite as long as natural granite.
2. Maintenance
- Granite requires yearly sealing to prevent staining.
- Quartz is nearly maintenance-free and requires very little upkeep.
3. Resale value
- Both granite and quartz offer excellent resale value and can help recoup costs at resale.
- However, granite may edge out quartz slightly when it comes to recovering your investment.
When factoring in lifespan, maintenance, and resale value, granite ultimately may provide better long-term cost efficiency. The higher upfront cost of granite pays off over decades of use and retains excellent value for future owners.
Cost Comparison Chart
| | Granite | Quartz |
|-|-|-|
| Upfront cost per sq. ft. (installed) | $50-$80 | $80-$100 |
| Lifespan | Decades | 20-25 years |
| Yearly maintenance | Sealing required | None |
| Resale value | Excellent | Very good |
Is the Extra Cost of Quartz Worth It?
Quartz costs more upfront, but requires no sealing or ongoing maintenance. Granite is cheaper to buy, yet requires yearly sealing.
Ultimately, the extra cost of quartz may be worth it for buyers that don’t want maintenance hassles. Quartz offers outstanding durability with zero maintenance requirements. It’s an excellent option for busy homeowners that want worry-free countertops.
However, savvy shoppers that don’t mind yearly sealing can capture great value with granite. Though granite requires minimal maintenance, it offers unbeatable natural beauty and timeless long-lasting quality.
Key Factors When Deciding Between Granite and Quartz
- Budget: Quartz costs more upfront. Granite offers greater value if you can afford the initial investment.
- Longevity: Granite lasts practically forever with basic maintenance. Quartz lifespan is unproven over decades.
- Appearance: Granite offers unique natural patterns. Quartz looks more uniform.
- Maintenance: Quartz requires none. Granite needs yearly sealing.
- Resale value: Granite may recoup a touch more value. Both offer excellent resale value.
The Bottom Line
When choosing between granite and quartz countertops, there’s no definitively “right” choice. Consider your budget, design goals, and maintenance preferences. For some buyers, quartz is the perfect fuss-free option despite the higher price tag. For other buyers, classic, durable granite offers unbeatable long-term cost efficiency. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of each material to make the best decision for your kitchen or bath.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is quartz more expensive than granite?
Yes, quartz consistently costs $10-$30 more per installed square foot compared to granite. The manufacturing process for engineered quartz increases costs.
Why is quartz more expensive than granite?
Quartz is man-made by combining crushed quartz crystals with resins and pigments under intense vibration, pressure, and heat. This complex process costs more than simply cutting and polishing natural granite slabs.
Is quartz cheaper to maintain than granite?
Yes, quartz requires virtually no maintenance unlike granite which requires yearly sealing. So quartz is cheaper in the long run when factoring in maintenance costs.
What has higher resale value, quartz or granite?
Granite likely achieves slightly higher resale value than quartz since it is a natural material that has stood the test of time. However, both materials retain excellent resale value.
Which material is better for kitchen countertops?
It depends on your priorities. Granite is an unbeatable natural stone, while quartz needs no maintenance. Granite offers more unique look options. Both are excellent choices overall.
Is quartz or granite more durable?
Granite is likely the most durable over decades of use. But quartz is engineered to be extremely durable as well, just with a shorter track record to prove longevity.
Conclusion
When it comes to kitchen countertops, both quartz and granite provide quality and beauty. But quartz consistently costs around $10-$30 more per square foot installed. Factors like uncommon granite varieties, exotic imported granite, thicker slabs, and premium edges increase costs for both materials. When examining total long-term value, granite comes out on top thanks to lower initial investment, superior durability and lifespan, easier maintenance, and comparable resale value to quartz. However, quartz requires zero sealing and maintenance which appeals to many homeowners. Carefully compare your budget, design goals, and maintenance preferences when choosing between these two excellent countertop materials.