When it comes to countertop surfaces, there doesn’t seem to be a big difference between granite and quartz. Both types of countertop are made of stone, and both are prized for their durability and aesthetic appeal, but is one better than the other? Let’s take a look at each option so you can decide for yourself what kind of countertop you want in your home.
Granite Countertops
Granite countertops are made from pure stone that is mined and sawed into slabs or tiles. The stone is polished to a fine sheen, but it otherwise maintains its natural appearance. Granite countertops come in many different colors and patterns, and no two countertops will be alike. Although granite is a hard and durable material, it’s also porous and can be stained by spills that aren’t cleaned immediately. Sealing a granite countertop will provide some protection, but it should still be wiped clean with soap and warm water every day. You might also want to purchase a cleanser that is specifically formulated for granite countertops if you want your countertops to look their best. On the other hand, granite is highly resistant to heat, so you don’t have to worry too much about damaging a granite countertop with hot pots and pans.
Although higher-end granite countertops can get expensive, they are mostly comparable in price to quartz, with prices ranging between $2,000 and $4,000. They are less environmentally-friendly, however. Granite countertops are made from solid pieces of stone that need to be mined from a quarry, so they aren’t as sustainable as quartz countertops. If having a “green” home is important to you, you might want to consider quartz instead of granite for your countertops. If you’ve ever wondered what the use of granite is, our latest article will be interesting for you.
Quartz Countertops
Unlike granite countertops that are 100 percent stone, quartz countertops are composed of 95 percent stone and 5 percent polymer resin. Quartz countertops look very similar to granite, but because they need to be manufactured, they can be customized for those who want a specific color to match their kitchen’s decor. Quartz isn’t as heat-resistant as granite, but it is harder and more resistant to scratches and gouges. Since quartz countertops aren’t porous, it is easier to keep them clean. They should still be wiped clean if you spill anything on them, but you don’t have to worry a
bout applying a sealant or investing in special cleansers. They are also much more environmentally-friendly than granite countertops since they don’t require large stone slabs to be mined and cut. The only real downsid
e of going with quartz instead of granite for your countertops is that quartz often doesn’t have the same natural beauty as granite. It does come close enough for most homeowners who don’t want to take the time to purchase and maintain a granite countertop, though.
Whether you decide to go with granite countertops or quartz countertops, you can rest assured that you are getting a good-quality work surface for your kitchen that will look great for years to come. If you need more information on these countertop options and want to know which one would be best for your home, contact Marble Unlimited today. They will be happy to answer any questions that you might have.