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Quartz vs. Granite Kitchen Countertops
Quartz Countertops
Appearance
Quartz is made by mixing crushed quartz with resin and pigment. This means it’s available in a wide variety of variations and can also be made to mimic the look of granite and marble.
Care
Quartz doesn’t need to be sealed or require any special cleaning making it nearly maintenance free.
Pros
- Quartz resists cracks, dents, and scratches.
- It is a manufactured product made using up to 95% ground quartz with 5% resins and polymers.
- Being an artificial product, it is completely customizable in terms of design, colours, and patterns.
- Since quartz is an engineered material, it is pre-sealed so doesn’t require periodic sealing.
- Its versatility makes it suitable for both kitchens and bathrooms.
Cons
- The polymers and resins aren’t heat resistant.
- Exposure to direct sunlight over time may result in fading.
- They are much heavier than granite slabs.
Granite Countertops
Appearance
Granite is a completely natural stone with no two pieces being alike. Though there is a wide range of colours and patterns available, they can only be what is found in nature. That’s not to say that you can’t find beautiful pink, green and blue hues, but if you’re looking for a specific hue, it could be hard to find.
Care
Granite needs to be sealed when being installed and re-sealed once a year.
Pros
- Granite is stain- and heat-resistant.
- It is a natural product that is quarried all around the world.
- The material is available in many different patterns, colours and designs owing to its formation (rapidly cooling and solidification of molten materials).
- Being a porous material, granite needs to be periodically sealed to maintain its durability and appearance.
- A granite countertop can add value to your property, making it a worthwhile investment.
Cons
- The presence of pores makes granite countertops susceptible to bacterial growth.
- It should be installed by professionals, as it can easily be damaged.
- Being a natural stone, granite is more expensive than quartz.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Quartz and Where is It Found?
Quartz is the second most common mineral found on earth and is a crystalline form of silicone. It’s typically found in sedimentary, metamorphic and igneous rocks and is coloured by the impurities present within such as in Cairngorm, citrine, and amethyst. It is a durable material which can be used in diverse ways from building materials to electronics. It can be found all over the world with Brazil and Arkansas having the biggest natural mines. The largest crystal was found in Brazil and weighed over 44 tons. Deserts, rivers, beaches, and mountaintops contain very high quantities of quartz. Though it’s a widely occurring material, high-quality and pure crystals are seldom found.
Is Quartz a Good Option for a Kitchen Countertop?
Of course, quartz is an excellent option for a kitchen countertop because it is known to be one of the toughest materials available. It’s a non-porous material that prevents mildew, bacteria, and water from seeping into the surface.
How do I Care for a Quartz Countertop?
Although a scratch-resistant material, we do recommend using a cutting board and not using the countertop as one. A severely hot pan or pot can cause discolouration so it’s best that you use a trivet to maintain the quality of your quartz countertop.
Does Quartz Need to be Sealed?
No, it isn’t necessary to seal quartz as you would other stones.
Do Granite Countertops Stain?
Granite can’t be burned with regular use although a few colours might absorb moisture due to prolonged contact. There may be a problem with pigmented fluids such as red wine but it doesn’t stain easily. However, it’s advisable to wipe off spills immediately. Our experts will seal the granite countertops with a specially formulated sealer which will prevent any irreversible damage from taking place.
Can My Granite Countertop Chip?
Your countertop can only chip in cases of severe abuse with a heavy impact tool such as a hammer. In such cases, it can easily be filled with a granite dust and epoxy mixture. Don’t throw away the chipped pieces as they can be used to fix the countertop.
Will My Granite Kitchen Countertop have pits on its Surface?
Since granite has a crystalline structure, it always has tiny pits. However, you won’t see them on large pieces as they’re polished to provide a mirror-like finish. Sometimes, granite also has tiny fissures which may look like small cracks, but aren’t any form of structural defects. They occur naturally as a result of immense pressure and heat which forms the stone. They are a part of the stone’s natural beauty and do not affect its durability or function.
Can My Granite Countertop Harbour Bacteria?
No, the Centre for Disease Control hasn’t found any evidence suggesting that bacteria can grow in granite.
How Much will I Have to Spend to Remodel My Kitchen?
Your kitchen is just like anything else you buy, meaning the cost will be dependent on the complexity of the job and the price of the materials you choose. However, remember that a kitchen remodel is an investment you make that can increase your home’s value. Our cabinetry is available at various price levels that can suit any budget and our experts strive to provide the best design within that budget.