We are about to get into a few differences, but in the end, it comes down to your style versus how you use your kitchen.
Quartz and granite countertops both have excellent features that are worth comparing. Both will also look beautiful in any home.
Here are the main differences you should keep in mind to help you decide which would work better in your home.
Granite Is 100% Natural
You’ll be purchasing a one-of-a-kind kitchen work surface that reflects your style. It’s quarried directly from the earth as one large block of stone. It’s 100% natural, and when you buy it, you’re guaranteed that nobody else in the world has one that is the same as yours.
For many people, it’s granite or nothing. This stone has built up its social status, and when a new countertop gets installed, you’re guaranteed some “oohs” and “ahs” from your visitors who are checking it out for the first time.
It also offers a higher resale value for homes, making it the most popular choice in high-end homes.
It’s Nearly Indestructible!
When it comes to functionality, however, granite has a tough time when we compare it to the strength and non-porous surface of the quartz.
All-natural stone is porous and must be sealed at least once a year to prevent staining. You can probably get away with not doing it, but the risk of staining gets much highest without a suitable sealant.
I Did Say Nearly
With day-to-day use, granite does not scratch, crack or break easily. With that said, there are cheap products out there for sale that can crack more quickly and may come with some blemishes.
The best way to ensure that you’re getting high quality is to ensure that the stone is quarried from a well-respected country in the industry. The stone yard you’re purchasing from can more than likely tell you where every slab comes from and can probably prove it with the paperwork they have on file.
Quartz Is Maintenance Free
Quartz is an excellent choice if you can’t be bothered with yearly maintenance. It’s a manufactured product that combines 93% crushed natural stone and 7% resin. Some manufacturers use more or less resin in their products. Generally, the more resin, the lower quality the final product is.
Thanks to the resin, these counters are non-porous, so they don’t require sealing and are virtually maintenance-free. You can purchase slabs that look natural, similar in appearance to granite or marble; in many cases, you won’t be able to tell the difference between them.
If you’re looking for something modern and colorful, however, you can also find it. Color dyes are added during the manufacturing process, so you’ll have the option to buy vibrant blues, reds, oranges, or just about any other color you can dream up.
If you are shopping for a countertop for your contemporary kitchen or something with a more classic appeal, you’ll have many options with an engineered product.
Which Will Chip Easier?
Granite is solid, but it can occasionally chip, especially if something heavy is dropped on it. If your drop a heavy pot on it, it’s doubtful you’ll see any dents or chips. On the other hand, quartz countertops tend to be stronger and can withstand all types of abuse.
Quartz also tends to hide its seams better than other options. It’s almost impossible to completely hide the seams with granite, whereas you’ll have to look closely to see the seams in an engineered counter. This is especially true with a darker color. If you are looking for a sleek and modern seamless look for your kitchen, engineered may be your best option.
Are you interested in learning more? Try this article about quartz countertops cost.