Explaining Kitchen Countertops: Quartz vs Granite
Kitchen Countertops Quartz vs Granite: When it comes to kitchen countertops, quartz and granite are two of the most popular choices. Both offer unique benefits and drawbacks, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
By the end of this post, you'll have a better understanding of which countertop material is right for your kitchen. Let's get started!
If you would like help choosing the perfect countertop for your project, contact us. We'd love to answer all your questions and assist you in making the right choice.
Everything You Need to Know About Kitchen Countertops Quartz vs Granite
1. Kitchen Countertops Quartz vs Granite: A Quick Overview
Quartz
Granite
Learn all about the differences in kitchen countertops quartz vs granite.
Choosing the right countertop material for your kitchen can be a daunting task. Two popular options are quartz and granite. Both materials offer unique advantages and disadvantages.
Quartz
Quartz is an engineered stone that is made from a mixture of quartz crystals and resin. It is non-porous, which makes it resistant to stains and bacteria. Quartz is also very durable and easy to maintain. This makes it a very popular choice among homeowners.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that is formed from cooled magma. It is a very hard and durable material that is resistant to heat and scratches. Granite is also available in a wide variety of colours and patterns. However, it is porous, which means it can be more susceptible to stains.
Ultimately, the best countertop material for you will depend on your budget, lifestyle, and personal preferences.
2. Cleaning and Maintenance
Keeping your countertops looking their best is essential. While both quartz and granite are durable materials, they require different care routines. Here's a breakdown of how to maintain each:
Quartz: The Low-Maintenance Marvel
*Image by MSI Surfaces
Quartz is incredibly easy to look after.
Quartz countertops are renowned for their easy care. Here’s a simple cleaning routine:
Daily Cleaning: A simple wipe-down with warm, soapy water is usually sufficient. Use a soft cloth or sponge to avoid scratching the surface.
Weekly Cleaning: For a deeper clean, use a gentle all-purpose cleaner. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as they can damage the surface.
Granite: A Little More TLC
*Image by MSI Surfaces
Granite countertops require a bit more maintenance.
Granite, while durable, requires a bit more attention to maintain its beauty.
Daily Cleaning: Wipe down the surface with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water.
Weekly Cleaning: Use a granite cleaner to remove any grime or residue.
Monthly Sealing: Sealing your granite countertop is crucial to protect it from stains. Apply a granite sealer according to the manufacturer's instructions, typically every 6-12 months.
Important Tip: Avoid using acidic cleaners like vinegar or lemon juice on granite, as they can etch the surface.
Sealing Your Granite Countertop:
If you are wondering what is involved in sealing your granite countertop, here are the general steps you would need to take:
Clean the Surface: Ensure your granite countertop is clean and dry before applying the sealer.
Apply the Sealer: Using a clean cloth or applicator, evenly apply the sealer to the entire surface of the countertop.
Buff the Surface: After a few minutes, buff the surface with a clean cloth to remove any excess sealer.
Repeat as Needed: The frequency of resealing depends on the level of use and the type of sealer. Typically, granite countertops should be resealed every 6-12 months.
Important Note: Always read and follow the specific instructions provided by the sealer manufacturer.
3. Price Point
The cost of your countertop can vary significantly based on the material, thickness, and complexity of the installation. Let's break down the price points of quartz and granite.
Quartz: A Budget-Friendly Option
*Image by MSI Surfaces
Kitchen Countertops Quartz vs Granite: You may find that quartz countertops are less expensive.
While quartz can vary in price, it is generally considered a more budget-friendly option compared to granite. However, there are some lower cost granite options that could cost you less than quartz. Factors affecting the price of quartz countertops include:
Thickness: Thicker slabs are typically more expensive.
Colour and Pattern: Exotic colours and intricate patterns may command a higher price.
Brand: Reputable brands often charge a premium for their products.
Granite: A Premium Investment
*Image by MSI Surfaces
Granite has a wider price range than quartz.
Granite, being a natural stone, can be quite expensive. Compared to quartz, granite has a wider price range with some lower-cost types that could cost less than quartz and other higher-cost, rare types that could cost much more than quartz. Several factors contribute to its price:
Rarity: Unique and rare granite varieties are more costly.
Slab Size: Larger slabs can be more expensive, especially if they require special cutting or handling.
Installation: Complex installations, such as those involving intricate edge profiles or multiple slabs, can increase the overall cost.
Region: The cost of granite can vary depending on your location and the availability of local quarries.
Saving Money with Remnants
One way to save money on both quartz and granite countertops is to consider using remnants. Remnants are leftover pieces of stone from larger slabs. They can be used to create smaller countertops, such as those for bathroom vanities or kitchen islands.
While remnants may limit your design options, they can significantly reduce the cost of your project. It's worth checking with local stone suppliers to see if they have any remnants available that might suit your needs.
4. Colour and Pattern
One of the most exciting aspects of choosing a countertop is selecting the perfect colour and pattern. Both quartz and granite offer a wide range of options to suit any style.
Quartz: A World of Colour
Quartz comes in a large variety of colours.
Quartz offers a wide range of colours and patterns, from solid colours to intricate veining. Some popular quartz colours include:
White: White quartz is a classic choice that pairs well with any style.
Grey: Grey is a versatile option that can be suitable for both modern and traditional decors.
Black: Black is a bold and dramatic choice that will definitely get noticed.
Beige: For a much more warm and inviting colour, choose beige.
One of the advantages of quartz is its consistency. Each slab will have a uniform colour and pattern, making it easier to match different pieces.
Granite: Nature's Masterpiece
Kitchen countertops quartz vs granite: Each slab of granite is very unique.
Granite is known for its unique and natural beauty. Each slab is one-of-a-kind, with its own distinctive colour and pattern. Some popular granite colours include:
Black: Black granite is a timeless choice especially those slabs which feature subtle veining.
White: White granite is a bright and airy option with lots of unique character.
Grey: Grey is a versatile colour that can be both warm and cool.
Brown: There are many beautiful brown granite options that have a lovely rich and earthy colour.
While granite offers unparalleled natural beauty, it can be more challenging to achieve a consistent look across multiple slabs.
5. Durability and Longevity
*Image by Natural Stone City
Both Quartz and Granite are vey durable and will last a long time with proper care.
A well-chosen countertop should be a long-lasting investment. Let's explore the durability and longevity of quartz and granite.
Quartz: The Indestructible
Quartz is incredibly durable and resistant to scratches, chips, and heat. Its non-porous surface makes it highly resistant to stains, bacteria, and mold. With proper care, quartz countertops can last for decades.
Granite: A Timeless Classic
Granite is a naturally hard and durable stone that can withstand heavy use. However, its porous nature makes it susceptible to stains if not properly sealed. With regular sealing and maintenance, granite countertops can last for many years.
Both quartz and granite are excellent choices for busy kitchens. With proper care, either material can provide a beautiful and functional surface for years to come.
6. Fun Facts: Quartz vs Granite
Kitchen Countertops Quartz vs Granite: Quartz is an engineered stone and granite is a natural stone.
Where Does It Come From?
Did you know that quartz countertops are actually man-made? And that granite is formed from cooled magma? Let's dive into some interesting facts about these popular countertop materials.
Quartz:
While natural quartz is abundant in the earth's crust, the quartz used for countertops is an engineered product. It's created through a manufacturing process that involves:
Mining: Natural quartz crystals are mined from various sources around the world.
Crushing: The mined quartz is crushed into a fine powder.
Mixing: The quartz powder is mixed with resin and pigments to create a composite material.
Molding: The mixture is molded into slabs, which are then cured under heat and pressure.
This process allows for precise control over the colour, pattern, and thickness of the final product.
Granite:
Granite is a naturally occurring igneous rock formed deep within the Earth's crust. Over millions of years, molten rock (magma) cools and solidifies, forming granite. The slow cooling process allows for the formation of large crystals of minerals like quartz, feldspar, and mica, which give granite its distinctive appearance.
Granite is quarried from various locations around the world, including:
India: India is known for its black granite with white veins.
China: China is a major producer of a variety of granite colours, including white, grey, and black.
Brazil: Brazil is renowned for its exotic granite colours, such as green and blue.
Granite's diverse origins result in a wide range of colours and patterns, from classic black and white to exotic greens and blues.
Beyond the Kitchen: Other Uses
*Image by MSI Surfaces
Quartz and granite can be used for other items like fireplaces.
Quartz:
Beyond countertops, quartz is used in a variety of applications, including flooring, wall tiles, and even jewelry.
Granite:
Granite's durability and beauty make it a popular choice for a variety of applications, including building fireplaces, facades, flooring, and sculptures.
7. Quartz or Granite? Which is Right for You?
Choosing between quartz and granite countertops depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here's a quick recap:
Quartz:
Pros: Quartz is durable, stain-resistant, low-maintenance, and it comes in a wide range of colours and patterns.
Cons: It falls in between your granite options with some options that are more expensive than some granite options and others that are less expensive than granite.
Granite:
Pros: Granite has a natural beauty and unique patterns. It is extremely durable.
Cons: It requires regular sealing, can be more susceptible to stains if not sealed properly, and it can vary in colour and pattern.
If you prioritize low maintenance and a wide range of colour options, quartz might be the best choice. If you prefer the natural beauty and durability of stone, granite is a great option.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to visit a local countertop showroom and see the materials in person. You can also consult with a kitchen designer to get expert advice.
Discover Your Dream Countertop at Natural Stone City
Searching for the perfect stone countertop? Look no further than Natural Stone City. We offer Southern Ontario’s largest selection of granite and quartz, with over 1,000 slabs in a dazzling array of colours.
From classic whites and blacks to exotic marbles and granites sourced from Italy, Brazil, and beyond, our curated collection caters to every taste.
When you choose Natural Stone City, you can expect:
Swift Installation: Your dream countertop, installed in as little as a week.
Unmatched Variety: Any colour, any style – we have it all.
Expert Guidance: Our knowledgeable staff is here to assist you every step of the way.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and bring your vision to life.
“I went to Natural Stone City after having gone to a couple different countertop places. I met Gia, and explained my project. I really didn’t want to pay the $90+/square foot prices for quartz & granite. I said to Gia that I wanted the nicest possible countertop for the lowest possible price. She took me to their “discount” rack of stone slabs, that had been discontinued. I found the perfect slab there, London Sky by Corian Quartz. She even put it on hold for me without me asking. I felt like she really understood my mission and was genuinely trying to help me. The team installed the countertops about a week later.
I am so thankful for Natural Stone City, and especially Gia, for finding an affordable solution for us. We are so proud of our new countertops, neutral but with a bit of interest and with the on-trend veining. And we didn’t have to break the bank. Thank you, Gia!”
— Emily Shelton
