Choosing countertop materials isn’t always easy. With so much to consider, from colors and countertop edges to materials and cost, it can be easy to get overwhelmed. Taking some time to carefully compare the pros and cons can help you decide which option is best for you.
Granite vs. Quartz
Natural stone countertops come with a lot of benefits. They’re durable and beautiful, and if you work with a custom countertop maker like Rock Solid Custom Countertops, LLC, you can explore lots of design options. But what about the pros and cons of two of the most popular options? In a contest between granite vs. quartz, which material is better?
Granite Pros
- Durability is one of the most notable qualities of natural stone countertops. Granite is one of the hardest countertop materials, making it an enduring choice for remodeling contractors everywhere.
- Heat resistance is a key quality in kitchen countertops, when you might be in a rush and put a hot saucepan directly onto the counter. While you should still be careful with hot objects, granite is heat resistant, making it a good choice for kitchen countertops.
Granite Cons
- Natural stone often requires sealing, and granite is no exception. To avoid damage to the material and keep your kitchen a healthy environment, you’ll have to seal and later reseal your granite countertops every one to three years.
- Granite is also prone to cracks or chipping. While it’s true granite is very hard, it can still be cracked, especially at the edge.
Quartz Pros
- Quartz is also remarkably durable, as it is a unique blend of synthetic materials and a natural stone base.
- Quartz does not require sealing, as granite does, giving it an advantage in the granite vs. quartz competition. No resealing means you’ll save time and money with this option.
Quartz Cons
- Quartz countertops have less variation than true natural stone. While this can also be a pro in the granite vs. quartz challenge, many homeowners appreciate the unpredictability of natural stone, a feature quartz can’t provide.
- Quartz is heat resistant but not heatproof. While quartz can withstand heat, placing hot pots directly onto the surface can lead to discoloration of the material. Just like with granite, you should be careful with heat.
The Victor?
In the end, the comparison of granite vs. quartz doesn’t come with a clear winner. Which material you choose will depend on your specific space, needs, and budget.