Quartz vs Granite Countertops 2022

If you’re looking to remodel your space with new countertops to either boost the beauty of your space or even to just boost the resale value of your home then you’ve come to the right place. Both are used in High-End homes and are always on the top of many homeowners list of potential materials. So which one is best for you, we will be comparing the differences, styles and cost to see which one is right for you.

What is the Difference Between Granite and Quartz?

When narrowing down the choices of materials to use for bath or kitchen countertops, it usually comes down to the 2 Juggernauts of material in the industry: Quartz vs Granite. Sometimes it isn’t an easy decision to make. After all they will both achieve the same objective (on the surface). But both differ from each other, quartz (engineered stone) is a man made material, made with crushed Natural-quartz crystals, then fused with resin binder with intense heat and pressure whilst pigment is added to give them their colors to form the beautiful slab known as quartz. Meanwhile granite is made through the cooling and solidifying of magma. And can usually be found in the earth’s crust.

Granite Countertops

Pros:

Heat resistant, scratch resistant and stain resistant if sealed and taken care of properly. Durable and comes with a variety of patterns and colors so you won't be limited on just one color or just one style to choose from and no two slabs will be exactly the same, Even though granite is heat and Scratch Resistant, it isn’t heat and scratch proof so we still recommend using heat pads and avoid dropping pots and pans onto the countertop to avoid chipping away.

Even if the price is high, it’s arguable that it can be cheaper than many other surfaces in the long run due to its durability. Sometimes granite can last longer than an occupant lives in a home. And there can be a return on investment once a homeowner decides to sell.

Cons:

Granite is a porous material meaning it needs to be sealed and polished every year to maintain its durability. But don’t worry, none of these processes require significant effort. There are many sealing products on the market you can use to protect your granite’s shine longer.

If left unsealed, the porous granite can suck up oils, juice, coffee and wine which will be near impossible to remove, Bacteria can also build up inside of the granite if not sealed properly. As more and more houses are being built and along it kitchens. Many homeowners rather not be bothered with maintenance, as per reports from Realtor.com. And despite being strong, a heavy pot or pan can crack and chip granite because each slab will have its flaws and imperfections. Sealed granite will never be as strong as its more popular counterpart, quartz.

Quartz Countertops

Pros:

Maintenance free meaning that simple cleaning is enough to keep them looking great, Non-porous meaning no sealing required and will last a lifetime. Fits any modern kitchen, High Resale Value due to its popularity increasing year after year, Durable due to it being a Man-made material and is much more durable than granite and won’t chip or stain as easily. Another pro of quartz is that if you need to make a seam it is easier to disguise compared to granite that has loads of different patterns and colors.

Cons:

The luxury of having quartz countertops comes with a higher price tag compared to granite, another con is the lack of versatility in patterns so your somewhat limited.

What is the Price Difference Between Quartz & Granite?

According to HomeAdvisor’s cost data research, homeowners pay on average between $2,250 and $4,500 for granite countertops but keep in mind this is an average. It can be higher or lower depending on your budget due to the granite choice. You may be wondering to yourself why Granite & Quartz is so expensive and there’s an amazing video about that made by Business Insider.

Generally Granite is more affordable than quartz on average. Most Granite usually cost around $55 to $120 per square foot while quartz is between $50 to $150 and sometimes even more

Bottom Line:

If you’re going on a budget then granite is the way to go due to its price and versatility, if you're looking for something that looks a nicer and are willing to shell out the cash, wan’t a timeless piece in your kitchen or bathroom & an investment into your home then Quartz is the way to go.