Granite vs. Quartz Counter Tops

It is always a good idea to consider the type of countertops you’re going to be placing throughout your home. You want to make the best decision and selection that fits well with your home, but also ensures that you’re able to get the most out of the living space. Everyone wants to love their kitchen, which means you want to love the items you have installed. Knowing the difference between granite and quartz countertops can put you in a better position on which to choose for the kitchen in your home.

Make Up of Each Material

Understanding what each type of counter top is made of is always a good thing. Granite is pulled from the ground as an entire, large chunk of stone and then cut to fit the specifications of the counter that you’re trying to cover. They can then be polished and finished right in the home. Quartz are a mixture of crushed quartz and resin (93% quartz and 7% resin). They both come in many colors and patterns.

Pros and Cons of Quartz

Quartz is more flexible compared to granite, making it easier to bend and work with when placing it throughout the home. This can lead to less costs for installation since installation can run much smoother for those contractors putting it in.

Quartz does not need to be sealed, since it is non-porous, and will last for some time to come because of this. It does not require special chemicals to clean it or anything else.

If the counters are placed in direct sunlight however, then they can discolor. This might be one drawback, but one that would take some time to actually take effect.

Quartz counters do have seams, which are less noticeable when you choose a darker color but sometimes not noticeable at all when the installation is done right. These seams can easily be hidden with objects that you place on the counters, as well.

Pros and Cons of Granite

The stones from granite might not be uniform and can be off balanced. This might be a drawback for some, but it can provide a unique, beautiful look for others.

Granite is porous, and it will need to be sealed throughout the years that you own it. Not only that, but you have to ensure that you clean the counters with a special chemical, and that no abrasive cleaners or scrubs are used on the top of it.

Granite is heavy-duty and harder to break. Though the rocks can chip or dent when abuse is apparent on the tops of them. With regular maintenance of granite countertops, they are able to last a lifetime or more, making them a long term solution for your kitchen.

Having a counter top installed in your home means you should have it done through a qualified professional for the job. This is not a do it yourself job, so you should always speak with someone that can provide you with the ideal installation that you’re after. Speak with us here today!