So, you have decided to put new countertops in your home. Now, the question is: granite or quartz?
For most homeowners, this decision is not an easy one, because they don’t really understand the differences between the two types of worktops. After all, they are both types of stones, so how different could they actually be?
Differences Between Quartz and Granite Worktops
Stone- While quartz is a type of stone, a quartz worktop is not entirely made from the stone. In fact, only about 93% of the worktop is quartz, and the rest is made up of polymer resins and colour pigments that bind the stone together. Granite worktops can be engineered in the same manner, but can also be made of 100% natural granite.
Cost- The cost of granite varies, depending on where it was mined, the manufacturer, installer, and the location of your home. The availability of the stone also affects the price of it. In general, the price of quartz worktops is about the same as granite. The only real difference here is that you are paying the same price for a natural product and an engineered one.
Value- One of the biggest differences between quartz and granite is the value these worktops add (or don’t add) to your home. The winner between the two, of course, is granite. When homeowners see and use granite, they can’t help but think how valuable it is. They are willing to pay more for a home with this type of worktop and are more likely to have it in their home than quartz.
Durability- While many quartz retailers would have you believe that quartz is a much more durable product than granite, this simply isn’t so. While granite may have imperfections and is only resistant to heat and scratches, quartz isn’t necessarily invincible. Like granite, it is only resistant to heat, chemicals, and scratches, so you will have to avoid using chemicals like bleach, and food products like wine, coffee, juice, and even some fruits and vegetables on the worktop. You will need to use a cutting board for your food preparation, and you will need to avoid placing slow cookers or hot pans on the worktops. Also, you cannot use quartz for your outdoor kitchens and rooms, as exposure to the sun will cause the polymer resins that bind the quartz together to turn yellow.
Health- Both quartz and granite are resistant to bacteria growth due to their non porous state. However, both still require regular cleaning in order to ensure the elimination of bacteria on their surfaces. Many quartz worktops, however, have a microban coating, which is essentially pesticide that is meant to provide additional antimicrobial protection. However, many consumers look at this pesticide as more of a health risk than a actual benefit. In addition, this coating of pesticide does not eliminate the need for daily cleaning.
Having trouble deciding between quartz and granite worktops? While the two are similar in some ways, their differences are significant. Granite can provide you with a natural, durable, and beautiful look in your home that will add to your resale value.
Bob Gill is the General Manager at AGandM (Affordable Granite and Marble) and has many years’ experience in the granite industry. Affordable Granite and Marble Co Ltd are the leading stockist and importer of quality granite worktops and granite slabs, and are available in a wide range of colours. Granite worktops, marble worktop and quartz worktops from Affordable Granite & Marble Co can be sold supply only, or as a full template and fit service.
