FINALLY, a Comprehensive Guide to Quartz VS Granite Countertops

by | May 14, 2016 | Construction

Calgary Granite and Quartz Countertops

Here are the Top 10 Important Differences when Deciding Between Granite or Quartz:

 

  1. COST

Let’s get this one out of the way first. If you only look at cost per square foot, granite tends to be more expensive but it depends on the colors, patterns, and manufactures that you choose from. And this doesn’t include the cost of maintenance, which we’ll get to later. The cost of quartz countertops can vary widely, some more than granite, some less. In the end the cost varies between slabs so much that it needs to be considered on a case-by-case basis to see what fits your budget.

 

  1. STRENGTH

Quartz is the winner in this category. It is much stronger than granite and less prone to cracking. With quartz you can have a cantilevering overhand design and not require any metal bracing. With a granite overhang you may require bracing to support the weight of the granite.

 

  1. STAIN RESISTANCE

Both Granite and Quartz resist stains very well but quartz is nearly impervious to them. Forget the seal a granite counter and stains may find permanent refuge in your kitchen.

 

  1. MAINTENANCE

Quartz is maintenance free. Just keep it clean. Granite on the other hand needs to be sealed every 12-18 months. If you don’t perform the yearly maintenance you run a higher risk of staining your countertop.

 

  1. SCRATCH RESISTANCE

Both Granite and Quartz are almost impossible to scratch. Don’t abuse them with sandpaper, screwdrivers and other things that have no place on the countertop and they’ll be scratch free forever.

 

  1. RESISTS CHIPPING

While tough to chip, any natural stone countertop, it’s not impossible. The most likely place that you’ll chip them is on the corners. Get a bullnose edge or another without 90 degree angle and it’ll be much less likely that you’ll run into this problem.

 

  1. HEAT PROOF

One of granite’s advantages over quartz is that it is more heat resistant than quartz. The resin in quartz may brown if you place a hot pan and leave it there for a few minutes. Doing this to granite will not affect the stone itself but may need a polishing

 

  1. BEAUTY

Both Countertops are stunning in their own right. If you prefer a more natural looking stone than choose granite. While others may enjoy the more modern look of quartz.

 

  1. AVAILABILITY

Future availability may be a consideration for you. Because quartz is a man made product, the chances are good that the same style will be available later. This will allow you to keep a consistent look throughout your home. This may not be possible with granite.

 

  1. BOTTOM LINE

The Countertops share a lot of the same features and you can’t go wrong with either choice. Choose based on which look you enjoy more and whether or not you will remember to do the maintenance required with granite.

 

Want More Info or Have a Question?

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