It is usually possible to narrow down your choice of bathroom or countertops by choosing between Quartz and Granite. This is a hard decision to make because it’s difficult to tell the difference between the countertop types. Each manufacturer loudly proclaims that quartz (engineered) and granite are pure, natural, straight from the earth, and as hard and durable as stones. How much are they different, and which one is superior: quartz or granite?
Granite comes from a natural stone quarry and is then cut into thin slabs. Finally, the stone is polished and fabricated into countertops.
Quartz countertops engineered stones products may contain a substantial amount of natural stone but may also contain other minerals. They are not made from slabs of quarried rock but instead are made from stone waste products that have been ground up and shaped into countertops and other products.
Appearance
Granite has an advantage over engineered stone in that each granite slab is different in color and mineral pattern. Your countertop will be unique. Although quartz countertops are manufactured from engineered materials, they appear uniform. Many colors and unique patterns are available, some of which may not look like granite.
It’s up to you what is most appealing to you. If you really want the natural stone look, then go for granite. Quartz countertops offer many benefits over natural stones, including a more elegant look.
It is clear that granite and quartz are premium countertop materials. These aren’t the countertop options for you if you’re on a budget.
Environmental Impact
Granite countertops outperform quartz countertops because they are 100% natural, while quartz countertops are made of color pigments, natural materials, and resins that bond them together.
Denver granite countertops require excavation, while quartz countertops are made from leftover stones byproducts.
Maintenance Durability
While both materials are durable, quartz countertops have an edge over granite. Quartz countertops can be heat resistant, but there are some drawbacks. Let’s examine the maintenance and durability concerns for each material.
Sealing: Granite is a very porous rock that needs sealing immediately upon installation and ongoing sealing. Quartz, by contrast, doesn’t need sealing thanks to the resins in the slabs.
Cracking: Granite slabs are susceptible to cracking due to inherent flaws. Quartz material is uniform all over, so cracking is rare.
Staining: Quartz counters are significantly more resistant to staining than granite.
Bacterial resistance: Quartz is also less vulnerable to bacteria because it has less porous granite than quartz.
Heat Resistance: Even though both materials are heat resistant, granite can withstand significantly higher temperatures than quartz. Granite countertops are made from the most heat-resistant material available. Granite can be placed directly on a pot or pan without damage, unlike quartz, which may become scorched.
Real Estate Value
These are two superior building materials that will impress potential buyers. Granite and quartz will slightly enhance the property’s value compared to ceramic tile or laminate countertops. Granite is a more natural material, so that some buyers may prefer it.
Bottom-line
Quartz and granite are high-end countertop options that increase a home’s value. Granite is a popular choice for those who appreciate all-natural materials. Quartz has slightly more durability and ease of maintenance.