Granite vs. Quartz Countertops: Which One is Right for Your Kitchen?

If you want to boost the beauty of your kitchen or increase the resale value of your home, installing new countertops is a great way to do so. Two of the most popular materials are granite and quartz. Both are high-quality, natural materials that can complement many different kitchen styles, but which one is right for your space? To help break down the granite vs. quartz countertops debate, we compared the two materials in five different categories.

1. Composition

Granite is a 100% natural stone that forms deep beneath the Earth’s surface by the cooling and solidifying of molten materials. It is mined from quarries all over the world, then cut down into slabs for home design purposes. Quartz countertops are made from engineered stone products. They largely consist of natural quartz that is mined directly from the Earth but also includes other minerals, pigment, and polymer resin to hold it all together.

2. Appearance

Due to its formation process, granite is available in many different colors and patterns. The hues range from earth tones to blues, greens, and roses. No two slabs are the same, so whether you’re looking for a subtle complement to your kitchen or a unique focal point, granite is a great choice. One of the main advantages of quartz is its appearance. It has the look of stone while also allowing homeowners to customize the design. This makes the selection process much easier and gives you the right piece to match your color scheme every time.

3. Price

Both granite and quartz are premium kitchen countertop materials, so they may not be the right choice if you are on a strict budget. The price of granite depends on the style you choose, as well as the type of edging treatments. It typically costs around $80 to $175 per square foot installed. The cost of quartz countertops depends on the thickness of the slab, the color, and whether or not it will house a sink. While the countertops themselves are similar in price to granite, the installation tends to cost a bit more because they are heavier than other stone surfaces, so a professional installer needs to ensure that your space is structurally sound enough to support it.

4. Maintenance

Granite countertops should be cleaned regularly with soap and water or a mild household cleaner, as some oils and acids can cause stains. You should also consider resealing these countertops once a year. Quartz countertops are very low maintenance. Wiping them down after use is all you will need to do to keep them in good condition. Unlike granite, quartz countertops will never need to be resealed.

5. Durability

Granite is one of the most durable materials available for countertops. It is naturally heat resistant and can withstand moderate impacts. Since it is porous, however, it can absorb spills if it is not properly sealed. The manufactured nature of quartz makes it resistant to scratches and chipping. It also repels dirt and moisture, making it virtually stain-proof. The resin in this material can be damaged by high heat, however, so make sure to use hot pads when setting hot pans down on the surface.

Granite and Quartz Countertops

No matter which material you go with, you can get your granite or quartz countertops at The Window Depot. Our vendors like MSI and Chemcore Industries will provide you with the highest quality counters for the best possible price. Browse our website or visit our locations today to check out our countertop inventory!