“What do you think, quartz or granite?”

Granite vs. quartz countertops pros and cons is something homeowners often ask us about while planning their kitchen remodel. 

So, what’s best?

When choosing between these two smart and beautiful options, naturally what’s most important is choosing the right surface for you.

After all, not everyone is an aspiring chef, and we all use our kitchens in unique ways. What’s aesthetically pleasing depends on the individual, and what’s beautiful to your next-door neighbor may be boring or unattractive to you. To make the right choice for your personal needs, consider all of the pros and cons of quartz vs granite countertops before you sign on the dotted line.

Quartz

Pros: Quartz is manufactured from natural minerals and resin mixed with color additives. There are abundant color and design options, it’s durable, maintenance is easy, and it’s very unlikely to crack, chip or stain. Quartz emits less than zero radon and also offers the advantage of longer slabs, which might reduce seams. Additionally, the color will be more consistent from piece to piece, since it is man-made.

Cons: Quartz isn’t heat-proof like some other options, so you can’t put anything hot on the surface. It can also be scratched, so you’ll need to use cutting boards for any slicing. If you happen to damage your quartz counter, it’s pretty tough to repair and might need to be replaced.

Granite

Pros: Granite is a natural stone product, so if having “real” materials is important to you, this may be the deciding factor. Some of the more typical granites may be less expensive than many quartz options. Each slab has a unique pattern and there are a variety of colors to complement your palette. Granite is hard to scratch, but; if you slice and dice on it, your knives will become dull in no time. If properly sealed, you can also put most hot cookware on the surface. If granite is damaged, it’s fairly easy to repair.

Cons:
“Does granite emit radon?”
Yes, some granites do emit low levels of radon, and whether it poses a potential risk has been the subject of debate for over a decade. If you have concerns, it’s best to do research and draw your own conclusions.

Another consideration is that because granite is slightly porous, you will need to have the surface sealed to prevent staining – especially if it’s a lighter color. The sealer does require the maintenance of being re-applied periodically – typically every year, or maybe a little longer.

The Conclusion: Granite vs Quartz Countertops

Ultimately, the question of quartz vs. granite countertops comes down to personal preference and priorities. If you value durability, easy maintenance, and a wide range of design options, quartz may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer the look and feel of natural stone, don’t mind a bit of maintenance, and want a unique pattern for your countertops, granite may be the way to go. Whatever your decision, make sure to consider all of the pros and cons of granite vs. quartz.

To read about other options besides quartz and granite, read our blog post, ‘Kitchen Countertops: When You Don’t Want the Same Old, Same Old’.

To see more photos for kitchen countertop ideas and inspiration, visit our portfolio or Instagram page.