Quartz vs. Granite: How Do I Choose?

Selecting new countertops for your new home or your renovation project can be one of the most exciting parts of the process, but with so many options, it can be hard to make a decision. Many homeowners have a hard time choosing between the two most popular countertop options: granite and quartz. If this is your dilemma, here are the things you should consider when making your decision.

Cost

Cost is often a crucial part of decisions regarding home building and remodeling. Generally, quartz is at a higher price point than granite. This is because it is a man-made material, although sometimes, with brand-name quartz, you’re paying a higher price than with other quartz products, just because of the brand.

Color

Granite countertops can come in a wide range of colors from dark to light. Because it is a natural stone, there can be a lot of variation in the mineral composition, and therefore, appearance, of granite slabs, and each slab is unique. Quartz, on the other hand, is not a natural stone and so has less variation in color and pattern than granite.

Availability

There are pros and cons to the unique appearance of each granite slab–because it is a natural stone, there are limited quantities. If you have a large countertop requiring multiple slabs, you may not be able to match the pattern exactly or find a second color-matched slab, if using granite. With quartz, since it is manufactured, the color and pattern you want may be more available.

Performance Characteristics

Both quartz and granite are durable, high-performing countertop materials, though their performance characteristics differ slightly. Quartz is harder and less porous than granite, making it less susceptible to chips and cracks. Because granite is porous, it does need to be sealed occasionally; quartz does not. Granite however, has a higher heat resistance than quartz, which allows it to be used for applications which quartz cannot, such as fireplace mantles.

When it comes down to making a decision for your countertop material, cost, color, availability, and performance are the major factors you should consider, because when choosing between granite and quartz, there is no obvious winner, no bad choice. Often, the choice between quartz and granite countertops really boils down to your preference and what would work best for your kitchen or bathroom application.

Want to see the difference for yourself? Set up an appointment to view our huge selection of granite and quartz.