Granite vs Quartz Countertops | What’s the best countertop option?

March 19, 2022

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Countertop trends change by the decade, but the two most popular options for homes right now are granite and quartz. In this article, we’ll explore their manufacturing processes, performance characteristics, and help you decide which one is better suited to your needs.

Granite Countertops

Granite is an igneous rock formed from the slow crystallization of magma beneath the Earth’s surface. It comprises natural quartz or silica SiO2, feldspars or aluminosilicates, mica or phyllosilicates, and other organic minerals. Quarries in Brazil, Italy, India, and China are primary sources for granite countertops.

The production of granite countertops begins with cutting large stone chunks using steel wires embedded with synthetic diamond dust, an extremely effective cutting material. The blocks are then transported to a factory, where they are cut into thin slabs and polished to reveal a unique and colorful surface. To address any imperfections like cracks and holes, epoxy resin is used. Computer software helps customize countertops, and diamond-coated blades or high-pressure jets of water cut the outline using CNC machines.

Granite countertops offer natural beauty and durability, making them highly sought-after. However, they are energy-intensive due to long-distance shipping and processing, which may impact their eco-friendliness. Additionally, while granite can emit radon gas, the likelihood of it posing health risks is minimal. Installing an air quality sensor can provide peace of mind.

Quartz Countertops

Quartz, the second most abundant mineral in the Earth’s crust, is an engineered stone used for countertops. The manufacturing process involves grinding quartz or silicon dioxide into a fine powder and mixing it with plastic resins, colored pigments, and sometimes recycled glass or metallic flecks. The mixture is poured into molds, compressed under immense pressure to form slabs, and then sintered to solidify the quartz.

Quartz countertops boast uniform designs and lighter colors, offering a trendy and modern aesthetic. They can be less energy-intensive if locally manufactured, contributing to their eco-friendliness. However, it is essential to differentiate quartz countertops from quartzite countertops, which are natural stone and costlier.

Appearance

Granite countertops typically feature darker, busier patterns with varied colors like Ubatuba, St Cecilia, Blue Pearl, and Black Galaxy. Lighter granite options include Dallas White, White Ice, White Picasso, and River White. Quartz countertops, on the other hand, exhibit a minimalist design with lighter colors such as Calacatta Nuvo, White Attica, Gray Lagoon, and Oceana, fitting well with modern trends.

Porosity

Granite is more porous than quartz, making it prone to staining. Regular sealing and cleaning are essential to prevent stains. In contrast, quartz countertops are completely sealed, making them resistant to staining and less susceptible to bacterial growth.

Heat

Granite is heat-resistant and can withstand direct contact with hot pans without scorching. Some quartz brands, however, are not heat-resistant and may get damaged by hot pans.

Cost

Pricing for both granite and quartz countertops varies widely based on factors like quality, edge profile, top finish, and depth. Granite prices range from $60 to over $200 per sq ft, while quartz can cost $80 to $140 per sq ft. Quality local quartz products can be competitive with granite pricing.

Conclusion

Manufacturing granite countertops can be energy-intensive, particularly when shipping overseas. Quartz offers an advantage as it can incorporate recycled materials and can be produced locally, making it more eco-friendly.

Both granite and quartz countertops present excellent options with distinct advantages. Granite requires more maintenance, but both materials are long-lasting and do not require frequent updates. While the TikTok trend of painting countertops with toxic epoxy should be avoided, selecting either granite or quartz will provide you with a beautiful and durable kitchen surface. Opt for quality, sustainability, and functionality over fleeting design trends. Let’s embrace countertops that stand the test of time and say no to planned obsolescence.