Quartz vs Granite Countertops: Is One Better Than The Other?
A big part of renovating your Nashville, TN kitchen or bathroom is choosing the right countertop material for your design and lifestyle needs. Choosing your countertop material has a significant impact on the rest of your renovation, given that it will affect the overall look and function of the room. There are a variety of materials available for countertops, but today, we’ll discuss the most popular countertop options — quartz vs. granite countertops. We will take a closer look at the pros and cons of quartz vs granite to help you decide which surface material is right for your project.
What To Know About Quartz Countertops: Pros & Cons
Quartz countertops are engineered stone made up of up to 90% quartz content that mimics the look of natural stone. Quartz countertops are the result of crushed quartz combined with coloring pigment and bound by polymer resin. Unlike the color variation you find in granite countertops, quartz countertops are more consistent.
At IntelliStone we carry a variety of quartz options for your Nashville countertop installation project. Color variations range from white and black to more vibrant hues. Quartz designs are inspired by the unique veining of marble, the industrial look and feel of concrete and the natural movement of granite. When it comes to appearance if you are looking for the freedom to customize the design of your kitchen and bathroom, quartz is a great option. From Silestone and Cambria to Caesarstone and Viatera, our Nashville quartz countertop selection is large. Consider the pros and cons of quartz countertops if you are thinking about using this material for your Franklin kitchen or bathroom renovation.
Photo By:@lyssmoore
Pros Of Quartz Countertops
- Nonporous: Quartz is a nonporous countertop. They resist mold, mildew and bacteria. Quartz countertops are also water-resistant, making it a better option than granite when used in wet locations such as wet bars, bathrooms and showers.
- Low Maintenance: Unlike granite, you do not need annual resealing to maintain your quartz countertops due to its nonporous nature. Quartz countertops will simply need regular cleaning with a stone friendly cleaner.
- Durability: Quartz is harder compared to granite making it more durable and less susceptible to chipping.
Cons of Quartz Countertops
- Susceptible to Heat Damage: Unlike granite, quartz can get damaged by excessive heat. It is important to avoid placing hot pots and pans directly on the countertop so you do not damage the material.
- Cost of Quartz: Quartz countertops can cost you a bit more depending on quality. The price of quartz per square foot can range from $65 to $100.
- Susceptible to Sun Damage: Quartz countertops don’t perform as well as granite for outdoor installations. Quartz cannot handle extreme sunlight exposure and too much sun can result in discolorations and fading.
What To Know About Granite Countertops: Pros & Cons
Granite countertops remain a popular surface choice due to their quality and durability. Homeowners and interior designers who prefer a natural stone material often turn to granite for their countertops. Granite offers many unique colors and patterns to choose from. The colors of granite range from white and black to blues and greens. Most granite countertops often have a speckled appearance or wavelike design.
Granite countertops are a combination of interlocking mineral crystals that come from various quarries around the world. Each of the unique granite slabs IntelliStone supplies goes through inspection and polishing process before they are ready for installation. Consider the pros and cons of granite countertops.
Pros Of Granite Countertops
- Authentic: Compared to natural stone surface materials like marble, granite is the most durable. Besides their aesthetic appeal, granite countertops tend to resist chips and cracks. Granite countertops are worthy investments that can last decades when properly maintained.
- Heat Resistance: Granite countertops are known for their resistance to heat. Granite countertops are recommended for outdoor applications as these countertops can withstand extreme exposure to the sun without fading.
- Cost: You can get the beauty of a natural stone countertop for a somewhat lower price. The prices between granite and quartz are close, with granite averaging around $50 per square foot. Quality and availability also play a significant role in the price.
Cons of Granite Countertops
- Porosity: Granite is porous, which can make liquid spills harder to clean. Granite can also harbor bacteria, viruses, mold and mildew if not properly cleaned and sealed regularly.
- Maintenance: Maintaining your granite countertops requires you to invest a little more money so they last for years to come. Along with regular cleaning, you should have your granite countertops resealed annually.
- Hardness: Granite is sturdy and the most durable of the natural stone surfaces. When compared to quartz, granite surfaces are a touch less resistant to chips, cracks and scratches. Use caution when handling sharp or heavy objects near your granite countertops.
Ready to Start Your Nashville Countertops Project?
Now that you have learned more about the pros and cons of quartz vs granite countertops, as well as what to take into consideration when selecting the right countertop material for you – the final decision is now in your hands. Still in need of some design assistance? Visit our kitchen visualizer or bathroom visualizer to pair your favorite countertop designs with cabinets, appliances, flooring and more.
If you are looking for more countertop information or design tips, check out our blog! Contact us today or visit our showroom in Tennessee located in Franklin near Nashville to get started on your next project!
