Granite vs. Quartz Countertops: A Complete Guide

Which is better, granite or quartz? Some can barely tell the difference between the two. On other remodels, it’s a divisive topic.

The truth is that one isn’t better than the other. It comes down to individual needs and preferences. This complete guide to granite vs. quartz countertops is designed to help you choose the right rock for your kitchen or bath.

Let’s start with the basics.

What are granite countertops?

Granite is a naturally formed plutonic igneous rock made of quartz, feldspar, and mica. It’s mined from quarries in large chunks and then cut and polished to form the fine slabs adorning kitchens and bathrooms today.

Builders prefer this natural stone for its strength and heat resistance. However, its biggest aesthetic draw is that every piece of granite is one of a kind. The pattern, color, and veins form over millions of years to create a stylish, functional material exclusive to its owner.

The planet’s crust consists of approximately 70% granite, so there’s a wide range of colors and shades to explore. Variations of white, gray, and beige are most popular, as is black. Rarer slabs of blue and green are available at higher price points.

Granite countertops are frequently a custom job because the rock is excavated and cut into large pieces. Pre-cut granite countertops will create seams that may or may not align with the layout of your kitchen or bath. Therefore, professional consultation and installation yield the best results.

In a moment, we’ll drill down on pricing and what it takes to maintain granite.

What are quartz countertops?

Unlike granite, quartz countertops are made of engineered stone. A combination of natural crushed quartz and resin is compressed into slabs and sealed into a highly attractive, nearly indestructible countertop.

It has many of the same strengths as granite with the benefit of a more consistent appearance. Quartz easily integrates into kitchens and baths of practically all designs.

Manufacturers can control the pattern, but the countertop is still comprised of more than 90% natural quartz. Therefore, its natural shades of white, gray, beige, brown, and black are most common. Different undertones and marble-like vein patterns help add dimension and style.

Seams may be unavoidable with larger areas as quartz countertop sections are usually manufactured in specific sizes. Professional advice, custom edges, and expert installation can make all the difference in blending separate pieces together.

Factors to consider when choosing granite vs. quartz countertops

Granite and quartz are both excellent options for any new countertop. Here are the factors that can help you choose between the two.

Appearance

Every slab of granite is unique. The color variety and distinct pattern arrangement is 100% natural. You may need to browse many pieces before you find the one you can enjoy for years.

Quartz can have a uniform look, but some designs can be highly appealing to granite lovers. Mirror chips added during manufacturing can add sparkle the way mica does in some natural granite. Quartz is also often designed to resemble marble, which is much softer and damages too easily to be a suitable countertop.

Durability

Deciding between granite vs. quartz countertops is so tough because these two are the most durable options. However, quartz has an edge. The Mohs hardness scale measures how resistant a material is to scratches. Quartz scores a 7 while granite scores a 6.

Granite is also porous. High porosity materials are more susceptible to staining and collecting bacteria. Quartz is not as porous thanks to the resins used to manufacture each piece.

Heat exposure is another matter. While both are popular for their heat resistance, granite wins out here. You can set a hot pan or curling iron directly on a granite countertop without damage, but this may scorch a quartz countertop.

Finally, there is the risk of cracking. Grooves called striations naturally form throughout stones. Although it is not common, some strong striations in granite can increase the chances of a crack forming.

Maintenance

Quartz is lower maintenance than granite. Once again, much of this comes down to the resins mixed in with the crushed quartz. Granite countertops require regular sealing to address the porosity of the stone.

Keep reading; we’ll take a closer look at each maintenance routine.

Price

Mid-range quartz countertops cost approximately $60-$80 per square foot, and mid-range granite costs approximately $50-$70 per square foot, including installation.

These are average estimates that can easily swing in either direction. Quartz and granite countertops prices vary based on the following:

• Your location
• The thickness and quality of the countertop
• The color, pattern, or other visual attributes
• Custom details such as edging
• Custom fabrication
• Installation costs

Bottom line: Quartz is regarded as a slightly more expensive option, but a rarer slab of granite would be more expensive than the average quartz countertop.

Granite vs. quartz countertops: A side-by-side comparison

To summarize, here’s what we’ve learned about each option so far:

How to maintain a granite countertop

Neither of these countertop options is cheap. But with the right treatment, they can last much longer than budget counters.

Granite countertop maintenance tips:

• Wipe spills away immediately with a microfiber cloth or paper towel
• Dry the surface as thoroughly as possible after cleaning
• Avoid acidic cleansers and abrasive scrubbers
• Choose gentle cleansers specially formulated for granite
• Use cutting boards and hot pads to minimize the chance of damage
• Seal the granite every year or two, and check the seals around sinks and cooktops regularly

How to maintain a quartz countertop

It might be lower maintenance than granite, but that doesn’t mean quartz can’t sustain damage.

Quartz countertop maintenance tips:

• Wipe spills away immediately
• Don’t set hot pans or use a knife directly on quartz
• Avoid acidic cleansers and abrasive scrubbers
• Use mild soap or quartz-specific cleaning solutions

Read our blog for more tips and information on repairing damaged quartz counters.

Which countertop is more environmentally friendly, granite or quartz?

A quartz countertop is more likely to be eco-friendly. Manufacturers use aggregate or leftover stone to make quartz countertops.

In fact, the quartz countertop industry doesn’t have its own dedicated mining operation. That drastically reduces the energy needed to mine, transport, and produce a product.

Granite may have a higher energy expenditure, but it still has its benefits. You can use and reuse a solid piece of 100% natural granite for 100 years or more.

Still can’t decide? Talk to a pro from The Designery

Quartz is slightly more durable than granite. But granite gives you a chance to own something one-of-a-kind. Both are welcome updates to any kitchen or bath.

If you don’t mind resealing your granite regularly, they’re also both low maintenance. If you’re ready to take a closer look at your options, contact The Designery. Our professionals can introduce you to premium materials in a range of finishes – customized and installed in your home.

FAQ

Why use quartz instead of granite?

Quartz is typically more durable than granite since it scores higher on the Mohs hardness scale. It also isn’t as porous as granite, simplifying cleaning and maintenance.

What adds more value to a house, quartz or granite?

Buyers like to see either, but it often depends on your area. If homes in your neighborhood are selling with quartz, granite might seem like a cut below. However, if your home has other upgrades, granite can still keep you competitive.

Which color granite is best for a kitchen countertop?

White and gray are the most popular choices due to their timelessness and versatility. Some variations of beige are easily integrated into a wide range of designs as well.

What is the easiest countertop to maintain?

Quartz is easier to maintain than granite because it does not require resealing. All it needs is regular wiping down with soap and water.