Weighing the Pros and Cons of Granite vs. Quartz

Granite vs. quartz. The pros and cons of these two stones are what help people decide which to install in their homes—and it’s not an easy decision either. Both stones offer many benefits and look gorgeous in almost every style of kitchen or bathroom, so it’s no wonder homeowners have a hard time making up their minds.

At WS Granite Tops, we are experts in both granite and quartz, which means we’re familiar with their similarities and differences. If you want to learn more about the pros and cons of granite and quartz, you’ve come to the right place.

Quartz

Pros:

• Quartz has been likened to concrete in terms of hardness. It’s one of the hardest materials out there!
• Its patterns are predictable, uniform, and seamless.
• It’s a hygienic surface that’s unfriendly to bacteria and stains.
• It’s nonporous, so it never needs to be sealed.
• It comes with a low level of maintenance.
• It’s unlikely to crack.

Cons:

• The resins that seal its pores are sensitive to direct sunlight. Because of this, it should only be installed inside.
• It doesn’t have the same degree of heat resistance as natural stone countertops.
• There is no natural uniqueness to its patterns.

As we mentioned, quartz is a type of nonporous countertop that never needs to be sealed. Unlike granite and other porous stones, quartz is impervious to stains and bacteria even without a sealing routine.

But the resins have a downside as well. They are sensitive to direct sunlight, so if your quartz countertop is installed outside, it is prone to fading.

Granite

Pros:

• It’s recyclable.
• It lasts for many years.
• It’s scratch resistant and very hard.
• Its patterns and colorations are bold and unique.
• It’s extremely heat resistant.

Cons:

• The patterns are too busy for some people.
• Since it’s porous, it needs to be resealed regularly.
• Though it’s unlikely that it will chip, it’s possible.
• It’s a very heavy material.

Granite is a classic natural stone. It’s formed under high heat and pressure under the earth’s surface, which means it takes no issue with hot pots and pans. You can set them right on the surface of your granite without worrying about sustaining damage. This stone can last for generations—once you install it, if you take care of it properly, you probably won’t ever need to replace it.

Granite countertops also perform just as well outdoors as they do inside, as long as you remember to keep them sealed.

Granite vs. Quartz—The Big Question

When it comes down to choosing between these two popular stones, WS Granite Tops is happy to help you make a decision you’re happy with. Get in touch with us today, and we’ll give you all the information you need to choose the perfect countertop for your home, whether it’s granite or quartz.