If you read any top list of kitchen countertops, you’ll find granite and quartz at the top. Both are stone varieties you can install into your kitchen setting. But which of them should you select for your kitchen remodeling project.
Researching the differences between the two will help you determine the best fit for your kitchen design. For the most part, many people can’t really tell the difference between the two and why they should choose one over the other.
In the following guide, we will point out what distinguishes one from the other. So, let’s take a look.
Which Stone is Considered Natural?
As you may know, quartz is an engineered stone, which means it’s not 100% natural. It’s made with between 90% to 97% engineered quartz. The rest consists of resin and pigments. The polymer resins bind together the particles. The result is a countertop slab that looks much like natural stone.
Granite, on the other hand, is 100% natural. It’s mined from the earth, which is sliced from quarries, cut to the proper size, honed and smoothed out.
When it comes to determining which of the two is more natural, then granite is the winner.
Which One is More Affordable?
As a homeowner, you want to implement materials into your kitchen design that won’t break your bank account. However, if money is an issue for you, then stone isn’t right for you. You can expect to pay a pretty penny, but it’s all worth it.
The beauty, functionality and luxury of stone kitchen countertops is what makes them popular among homeowners. The long-term value quartz and granite offers for your home is unmatched by non-stone varieties, such as laminate or wood.
The price range for granite and quartz vary from brand to brand. However, you can expect to pay somewhere around $60 per square foot for granite slabs. The pricing for quartz is anywhere between $67 and $93 per square foot.
The size of your countertop will determine the outcome for the price of your kitchen upgrade.
Levels of Radon in Granite and Quartz
If you’ve been into home remodeling for quite some time, then you know there are toxic dangers to watch out for. Radon is one of these toxins, which is sometimes found on materials that come from the ground.
This is a radioactive gas that’s been tied to lung cancer, so it’s not something you want to ignore. The good news is that reports show granite and engineered quartz have nearly no radon content in them. So, there’s nothing for homeowners to worry about.
Which is Easier to Maintain?
You can expect for maintenance to be necessary for both types of stone. However, it’s important to note that granite will require more maintenance than engineered quartz. This is because quartz has polymer resin that acts like a sealant.
Granite, on the other hand, will require regular sealing to keep it looking like new. You won’t have to worry about this with quartz. Sealed stones look amazing for much longer because they’re not easily scratched, stained or burned.
Granite s a porous stone, so a sealant is necessary.
Which Stone is More Durable?
Being the homeowner of a kitchen with granite countertops means either loving or accepting the qualities of your slab. This natural stone is beautiful, but it’s not without flaws and imperfections. Now, are these flaws and imperfections deal breakers? Absolutely not.
Sealing your granite counters makes up for its porous state, so that it’s not easily stained. Quartz, on the other hand, is strong “out of the box” so you don’t have to worry about staining issues or sealing requirements.
So, which of the two is more durable in its natural state? That would be engineered quartz because the flaws are removed through the engineering process.
Choosing the Best Kitchen Countertop
Now’s the time to go over your notes to see which of the two you want to use for your kitchen countertop. On paper, it may be easy to see why quartz is a top pick. But after seeing it in person, you may change your mind.
This is why it’s essential that you not only research materials online but see them for yourself. At KNC Granite, you can visit our local showroom to see our kitchen countertops firsthand.
You’ll find that the unique veins and specks inside of granite may add more appeal to your kitchen design. Quartz tends to have a uniform veining throughout the slab, which makes it feel less authentic.
However, if you’re more into a countertop that won’t require sealing, then quartz may be right for you. Both come in an array of color options and edge profiles.
Hiring a Contractor for Your Kitchen Countertop Installation
Once you decide on the type of stone countertop you want to install in your kitchen, you can hire the licensed contractors from KNC Granite.
We have years of experience installing granite, quartz and marble countertops into kitchens and bathrooms. The craftsmanship we offer is satisfactory to all of our customers. This shows in our track record of success.
You can visit our local showroom to choose the material you want for your kitchen countertop. We sell countertop stones from brands like Caesarstone, Silestone and Cambria.
Contact our office today to see how we can help with your kitchen renovation and to get a free estimate!