Granite vs Quartz Countertops: Which Is Best?
Ready to remodel or renovate your kitchen? There are quite a few decisions to make, but none may be more important than which countertop materials to use.
Modern countertop manufacturers use a wealth of materials including laminates and soapstone. Yet, the two top market leaders that garner the most attention are quartz and granite.
This article asks: granite vs quartz countertops? Which is best for your kitchen?
Learn about the pros and cons of granite countertops, including cost and durability. Discover why quartz countertops are popular and how they compare to granite stone.
Read on to learn about the best countertops for your kitchen renovation.
Granite Countertops
Natural stone granite has a timeless appeal that’s often used as the centerpiece of a kitchen.
Its usage can trace its roots back to ancient Egypt as they built the pyramids using granite. The Romans saw its inherent beauty and constructed the Pantheon using granite as the base.
Modern cultures began mining the stone to build granite countertops in the late 1880s.
Only the social elite could afford them initially due to the difficulty of cutting the stone. Thankfully, modern manufacturing techniques have paved the way for affordable countertop renovations.
Pros and Cons of Granite
All granite countertops are truly unique which makes your kitchen one-of-a-kind.
The natural stone is *literally* time-tested and won’t crack under pressure. It’s available in wide slabs which means fewer seams and a professional finish.
A common criticism of using granite is the high price tag.
Choosing exotic granite will certainly increase costs but there are budget-friendly options. However, all granite finishes suffer from being porous, i.e. susceptible to spilled liquids. You’ll need to reseal the countertop every 2-5 years to keep it looking fresh.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops date back to 1963.
Inventor Marcello Toncelli patented the process of solidifying quartz with resins and polymers. The result was a solid slab that has the hardness of natural stone but glistens like luxe marble.
Some core features of quartz countertops include:
- Available in multiple colors
- Nonporous and not prone to stains
- Heavy-duty work surface yet easy to maintain
Unlike granite, quartz kitchen countertops are designed to follow the manufacturer’s chosen pattern. If one tabletop breaks or needs replacing, you can exchange it for an identical piece.
These benefits come at a cost, as quartz countertops are usually more expensive than granite.
You cannot use quartz in outdoor installations as the surface will fade over time. Also, since it’s man-made, quartz doesn’t have the same allure as all-natural stone.
Granite vs Quartz
Which finish should you go with for your kitchen renovation?
If you want less hassle and don’t mind paying a higher price then consider quartz. It’s a huge selling point for homebuyers and offers an excellent return on your investment.
Many of our clients choose granite due to the uniqueness of each product. No two countertops look alike and that brings something special to your home. It does require extra maintenance and is more difficult to install.
Thankfully, Fischer Restoration offers luxury quartz, granite, tile, and laminate countertops. And we offer advice on the best solution for your kitchen.
Seattle Kitchen Renovation and Remodeling Services
The granite vs quartz debate will continue. Some admire the unique beauty of granite while others prefer the resilience of quartz.
At Fischer Restoration, we understand that every person and home is unique. That’s why our repairs and remodeling service is bespoke to match your particular requirements.
With a rich history spanning decades, we can guide you on the countertop best suited to your tastes. Contact us today or visit our offices in Mountlake Terrace, WA for our expert opinion.