It’s one of the most common questions we get: What is the difference between granite and quartz?
If you are planning on redoing your countertops and have it narrowed down to granite or quartz, how does one choose between the two? Just like in the face-off between Batman and Superman, both have their unique strengths. But before we get into the details, let’s begin with a 2-minute video from kitchenCRATE Co-founder Scott Monday:
Where They Come From:
A good place to start is their origin story. Granite is a natural stone that is quarried directly from the ground. As a result, granite has lots of character, with veining and variation in color. Quartz countertops are man-made from a mixture of crushed quartz rock combined with resin. Quartz is recognizable for its consistently-toned, granular appearance.
The Difference in Durability:
When it comes to surfaces that will need to withstand the rigors of daily use, performance becomes an important factor. While both materials are extremely durable there are pros and cons to each. Red wine drinkers beware, certain liquids can stain granite, but granite does hold up well to heat. In contrast, you wouldn’t want to put a hot pan directly on a quartz counter unless you want to permanently leave your mark. To keep your granite countertops looking as gorgeous as the day they were installed only requires the application of a sealer twice a year, which is less often than you should be rotating your tires. Quartz, on the other hand, requires as much maintenance as an astroturf lawn.
Variation in Price:
In terms of dollars and cents, there is a wide range of quartz options from $8 to $35 per square foot. Granite starts as low as $7 per square foot, but be careful which one you fall in love with, because granite prices go much higher, up to $75 per square foot!
Difference in Look:
The most noticeable difference between these two materials is the aesthetic. Quartz with the consistency of its coloring can feel very modern and blend in with the overall design of the room. Granite with the variations that occur naturally can make a bolder statement and command attention.
Personal Preference:
Just like your Starbucks order, the ultimate deciding factor comes down to personal preference. Does one prefer your counter to be sleek and uniform or unique and full of character? Are you a cold brew iced coffee type or a soy chai latte type? Perhaps the best way to determine which material you lean towards is to see examples of the two options within the context of a room. Whichever option you choose to go with to revitalize the room, the effect will be dramatic!
Interested in our free PDF download that shows you the difference between quartz and granite in one simple snapshot? Just click the image below to download it!
