Are you thinking about the next kitchen renovation and worried about kitchen countertops? Don’t worry, as we are here to help you out in making the best choice regarding your kitchen countertops. Stone finish countertops are the ideal option for your kitchen countertops.
The countertops finishing material and designs play an important role in your kitchen renovation. There are various factors on which you have to keep an eye while deciding on the countertops. These include lifespan, maintenance, and, most important, cost.
If you want a refined finish on your countertops, then there are two options. These are quartz or granite. In this blog, we will make a comparison between granite and quartz. So, you can decide between granite or quartz countertops for the kitchen:
Granite Vs. Quartz
Quartz is a naturally-occurring stone formed by crystalized silicon. After feldspar, it is the second most abundant material on Earth. Also, this material is an eco-friendly choice if you select quartz countertops for your kitchen. Natural quartz is also called quartzite.
But, mostly, if you look closely, then quartz countertops are manufactured from engineered quartz. It mostly consists of crushed quartz bound with resin.
Granite is a natural stone that is made from cooling magma. This stone is highly-resistant. It comprises different minerals such as feldspar and quartz. This composition gives the granite surface a unique aspect and appearance. This stone comes in large slabs for kitchen countertops materials.
Quartz Vs. Granite Countertops – Comparison
Now, we will compare these two stones in terms of various factors. These factors include:
Appearance and Colors
First of all, if we look at the quartz, then it is an engineered stone. There are two ingredients in it, mainly consists of polymer resins and crushed quartzite. Quartzite material is versatile for your kitchen countertops. This material can be dyed in any desired color.
Most of the time, people dye it in different shades just to get some unusual shades that go excellent for their next kitchen renovation. For DIY installations, in particular, this designed stone delivers a more uniform appearance that makes seams easier to conceal.
But if you love the appearance of natural materials, engineered quartz may not be the right countertop material for you since it frequently looks less natural. The slabs have a more rustic appearance since quartzite has a coarser texture.
If we talk about granite, then it is a natural stone that brings a unique and warm appearance and looks to your home. When you are choosing the granite countertops slabs for your kitchen, you should remain very careful in their selection. In granite countertops for bathrooms, you will find a wide range of patterns and designs.
Maintenance and Care
Quartz countertops are easy to maintain as compared to granite countertops. Let’s explore how they are easy to maintain:
Quartz Maintenance
Quartz is an engineered stone, so they are close to a maintenance-free surface. Thanks to the strong resin, the surface is non-porous and resistant to tiny scratches. It does not require regular sealing and can be cleaned with all-purpose cleansers or mild soap for a germ-free environment.
Dark liquids, however, can leave stains if they are not quickly cleaned up. Although quartz countertops have some heat resistance, it is best to use hot pads to protect them from high temperatures since they can permanently discolor otherwise.
Granite Maintenance
One of the main differences between quartz and granite countertops is that granite has a porous surface. Although, this stone granite has a resistant surface and requires maintenance after some time.
To safeguard its stunning look and tensile strength, this natural material needs to be sealed frequently. To prevent the surface from penetrating the sealing, the surface must be polished without the use of strong chemicals. The granite countertops in Boynton Beach can last a lifetime if properly cared for.
Durable
Now, let’s explore the durability of the two stones. From this, you will get to know in which stone your investment will be worth it:
Quartz
Both granite and quartz offer a long-lasting countertop material for your home, and the majority of quartz manufacturers have a warranty that lasts for up to 10 years after installation. Quartz has a non-porous surface, which makes it less susceptible to stains.
Additionally, manufactured stones like quartz used in granite countertops are more flexible and less brittle than natural materials. Countertops made of so-called engineered stone can survive regular use and be restored with a specific resin.
Granite
Granite countertops can withstand moderate heat and are sufficiently scratch-resistant to prevent chipping from regular use. However, due to its porous nature, stains could appear unless spills are cleaned up with a certain cleaner.
The granite slabs can last for year if you clean them regularly. But, since it is a natural stone, that’s why it may suffer any crack or chip.
If you want to compare both of these stones, granite, and countertops, in terms of price, then the cost of quartz countertops slabs is less than granite countertops.
The Bottom Line
Both of these materials, quartz, and granite countertops, are of high value. But, you should look into the different factors mentioned above and compare them before selecting the one. Check our collection of granite and quartz countertops slabs at SK Stones USA. We are the leading supplier of premium quality, both natural and engineered stones.
Read More: The Durability of Quartz Countertops for Your Home