How to Chose Between Quartz Vs Granite

The Quartz Versus Granite Debate

Whether you spend time in the kitchen because you enjoy the process of cooking or are mainly in the kitchen because you like to eat, we are all in our kitchens many times a day. Kitchens are also famous for office or working at home, just hanging out, or a place near the cook. And, if you entertain very often, you cannot ignore the fact that even while kitchens are mainly for storing and preparing food, they are also a favorite gathering place for entertainment. As a result, we all can benefit from more extensive, well-laid-out, and beautiful kitchens.

A significant aspect of having a beautiful kitchen is dependent upon our countertops. One of the most common dilemmas today is whether quartz or granite countertops will better meet your needs. While either one will most likely be visually improved, the more important question is, which is the best value for you?

Where Granite And Quartz Come From

Let’s first look at how each is made to compare the two. Granite is a burdensome natural stone that is naturally formed while a kaleidoscope of molten materials cools and begins to solidify. This process creates a nearly inexhaustible array of colors and patterns. Quartz is an artificial material manufactured using 95 percent ground quartz mixed with 5 percent polymer resins.

Granite is mined from quarries worldwide, which must be cut down to a manageable size and polished to a fine finish. Since granite is a natural stone, various color and pattern variations will exist. Like leather and diamonds, each piece of granite is unique and organic. Since quartz is engineered, each piece can look precisely like any other.

The Durability Of Granite And Quartz

Speaking of diamonds … granite is rock-hard! The only other mineral stronger than granite is … you guessed it! Diamonds. If granite is correctly installed by a contractor familiar with it, you will never need a new one. You might replace it because you want to, but it won’t be because you need to. It is tough to chip, scratch, or crack. Another benefit of the rock-hardness of granite, and our favorite, is that it is heat resistant since it is formed in intense heat. You can bring the pan straight from the oven and set it on the counter. Also, since granite is a rock, you can slice and dice directly on it. However, it will dull your knives, so a wooden board is preferable.

Quartz is not as durable; it does burn and is not as easy to repair. However, the precision of quartz is one of the main reasons it has become so popular. Quartz has the look of stone, allowing homeowners to customize the design. And, with quartz, the selection process is much easier.

Is Granite Or Quartz More Expensive?

HomeAdviser.com says the average cost to purchase granite and install it can be between $2,000 and $4,000. While depending on the quality of the quartz and the type of edging chosen, HomeAdvisor.com places the average cost to install quartz countertops between $1,500 and $5,500. You can do preliminary work to save money with either granite or quartz. Still, a professional installer must ensure the space is structurally sound because engineered quartz is heavier than other stone surfaces.

Similar factors will impact the cost of either material, depending on the complexity of the job, who does the job, the grade, and where you purchase it. Of course, more customization of sink and faucet cuts, seams, and edging will show up in the pricing. Ensure that the person you hire for the work is licensed and insured so that you're covered if the material is damaged during installation or the countertops are improperly installed. Lucky for you L&L Construction, is fully licensed and insured and very experience in all types of countertops.

Grading

Both granite and quartz are graded. While the vendor you work with may use different terms, granite is graded by colors, veins, pitting, marking, thickness, how much soft materials it contains, and the country where it was quarried. The grades of quartz are closeout/clearance, standard, premium, and designer. Home improvement stores tend to sell standard to mid-grade, a local countertop company will have mid-grade to premium, and most designers use premium materials in their projects.

The Care Of Granite And Quartz

Granite countertops should be cleaned daily with soap and water or a mild household cleaner. To clean quartz, do a little research to decide what you prefer. To ensure the longevity of your investment, consider having your countertops resealed once a year.

So, is granite or quartz a better value? My grandpa always said, “Quality plus price equals value.” Since the costs are about equal, you must consider other factors to determine the best value. Granite is a unique and durable stone, while quartz is engineered for preciseness; both have differing amounts of appeal depending on your preference for natural or artificial. However, we have found that the functionality and durability of granite are superior to quartz and more “family friendly.” Considering this, only you can decide if you prefer organic versus manufactured as they both have their own benefits.

The L&L Team is more than happy to look over your space and specific needs to talk over what choice is best for you. Call or Txt anytime at 206-455-4365 for a free consolation!