August 11, 2020
Quartz vs. Granite Countertops
August 11, 2020
Selecting kitchen countertops can be an overwhelming decision. With so many choices on the market-quartz, granite, marble, porcelain- it can be difficult to navigate and select the best option for your lifestyle and space. Let’s face it, countertops are an investment. You want to feel confident with the choice you make because chances are, it’s not something you want to replace every couple of years. While overall appearance is important, for a high traffic area such as a kitchen or bathroom, it is equally important to select a surface that is durable and relatively low maintenance. Today, we are going to take a look at two of the more popular kitchen countertop choices, quartz and granite, and see if one is really superior than the other.
The quartz countertops vs. granite countertops debate has been going on for a long time. So before we dive into the pros and cons of each material, it is important to understand exactly what quartz and granite are.
Quartz slabs go through a manufacturing process. They are comprised of up to 93% natural quartz combined with resin and pigment, creating a very durable surface. Raw quartz is the fourth hardest crystalline mineral on earth. It is found abundantly all over the world in many different varieties. Quartz has many advantages – it is durable, heat, scratch and stain resistant, non porous, requires absolutely no sealing, and is generally more consistent than natural stone. Quartz slabs come in a variety of different colours, patterns, and textures, often emulating the look of natural stone such as marble and granite. With quartz there are endless options to choose from: solid whites and greys to vibrant colors and intricate patterns. Some quartz might even contain recycled glass or mirror flecks in them. Not only does quartz provide a surface that is beautiful, but also one that is easy to care for and maintain for years to come. So, if you are worried about red wine or coffee stains, quartz kitchen countertops may be the perfect choice for you. The fact that quartz is nonporous also means that the surface will not absorb bacteria, an added bonus. If you have any questions about your quartz kitchen countertops, HanStone Quartz provides a comprehensive Care and Maintenance Guide that breaks down every common household spill.
Granite is a very hard stone that is mined from quarries all over the world and is 100% natural. Large blocks of granite are cut down to a more manageable size (slab) which is then polished. Granite comes in a wide range of colours and varieties ranging from dark earthy tones, to bright blues and greens. Each slab of granite is completely unique, meaning that no two slabs are alike. Because of this, the slabs might not be consistent in colour and pattern and will often involve you selecting and “tagging” your slab. Similar to quartz, granite countertops are extremely durable and long lasting. The main point of differentiation between granite and quartz is that granite by nature is quite porous. Kitchen countertop manufacturers will suggest sealing the surface. Left unsealed, staining can occur, and bacteria can be absorbed into the material. In order to ensure the longevity of your granite countertops, you should consider sealing the material on a yearly basis.
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You really can’t go wrong with either quartz or granite for your kitchen countertops. That being said, if we had to pick, quartz countertops would be the winner. With endless options in terms of colours, patterns, and textures, you will be sure to find something that suits your design style.
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