Difference Between Quartz and Granite Countertops

Unless your geology knowledge is top notch, you may find yourself pondering the differences between quartz and granite when it comes time to choose the countertops in your new home. Fortunately, a home builder in Grand Forks ND, like Crary Real Estate, gives you plenty of countertop options, so here are some tips to help you find the one that is right for you.

At first glance, they look similar, but there are differences, including in cost and maintenance, so you’ll need to keep those in mind, as well as deciding on personal preference. There’s also the big difference in that granite is a natural material quarried from the ground and it is primarily made up of quartz and feldspar. While quartz slabs can be quarried from the earth, quartz countertops are manmade in a patented combination of crushed natural quartz and resin.

Ultimately, both granite and quartz represent a higher-end product when it comes to countertops. They’re both considerably more expensive than laminate like Formica or solid countertops like Corian. They also need to be professionally installed, though quartz is slightly easier to install due to its greater flexibility.

However, the cost of the granite and quartz also comes down to the slabs you choose, due to color rarity and other elements. Generally, for the most basic granite countertops, you’re looking at approximately $39 per square foot, though if you want the high-end rare-color granite, then you could easily see prices around $150 per square foot. Most people aim for a solid choice somewhere between the $45 and $75 price range.

Quartz countertops generally run slightly more expensive in the lower range, starting around $60 per square foot for a basic counter. However, you can get a higher-end counter for less than granite, with prices typically topping out around $100 per square foot. The typical mid-range is $70 to $85.

Both are incredibly durable and will potentially last the lifetime of the home, however, quartz is more sensitive to sunlight, due to the resin used in it. Over time, sunlight can cause the resin to change color, which can be problematic if the sun hits primarily just one spot. However, if your counters are protected from the sun, quartz gives you a consistent appearance throughout the entire countertop, whereas granite can have color changes within a single slab countertop, due to the fact that granite is natural and has varied, if imperfect, patterns. This is a feature that many people appreciate, while others prefer the uniformity of quartz. Quartz, being manmade, also allows for greater control and choice in colors if you’re looking for a specific color theme. Appearance is where personal preference truly matters when choosing between the two.

Both are easy to clean with just dish soap and water, though be sure to thoroughly wipe away any soap to avoid a buildup of residue. However, with longer-term maintenance, granite will require an application of sealant to protect against stains and this may need to be done once a year or roughly every three years, depending on the sealant you choose. Quartz does not need sealant thanks to the built in epoxy resin.

These are the primary features to consider when choosing between granite and quartz countertops. There are pros and cons to each, which leave them fairly balanced, and both remain highly appealing. Think about any special colors you may be leaning toward, whether your kitchen will be in full sunlight or not, and how much maintenance you want to do periodically. While the budget may be a factor, they’re close enough that ultimately it may come down to personal preference. Your home builder in Grand Forks ND will be happy to help you find various options in each and install them to help you create your dream kitchen.

Categorised in: Design Tips, Difference Between Quartz and Granite Countertops, Things To Do

This post was written by Crary Real Estate