Quartz Vs. Granite: Which is better for your countertops?
Making choices for your dream kitchen can quickly turn into a nightmare when faced with all of the options that are out there! It is easy to agonize over each and every decision. One of those make or break judgments often involves which type of countertops to pick: quart or granite? A recent article from House Beautiful tackled the subject to make it easier for the typical homeowner looking at both options.
Meredith Barclay from The Home Depot countertop section tells us to breathe easy. “Granite and quartz are both top of the line options and usually fall into the same price range.” She gave some details on the major differences between the two.
What’s in Quartz Countertops?
When shopping for quartz countertops the homeowner is looking at “engineered” quartz; it’s made from mostly natural materials but is also mixed with pigments and resin to increase it’s durability. It is easy to clean and much like granite, it is also resistant to stains and scratches. And because it is partly man made, it is non-porous and does not need to be resealed. Of course like anything else, quartz does have a few downsides. While it is resistant to heat up to 400 degrees, anything beyond that can cause cracking. Cost wise quartz typically runs about $50 to $90 a square foot.
What’s in Granite Countertops?
Granite has been one of the most popular countertop choices due to it’s good reputation for being resistant to scratches, high heat, and stains. Because it is an all natural stone it is possible to choose your very own slab which makes your pattern unique. But unlike quartz, granite is porous and needs to be resealed every 8-10 years to protect its surface. Granite is a bit pricier too; around $40-$100 per square foot.
So Which option to Choose?
The decision really comes down to the homeowner’s personal style and color preferences. If you are looking for a one-of-a-kind beauty, then you cannot top granite’s look. But if you want a more consistent color or a white marble look, then opt for the quartz. Whichever material you choose, you will have the confidence in knowing it was the right decision. Both options are a beautiful and quality choice!