What is better quartz or granite?

Author: Rosalee Wyman Jr.  |  Last update: Tuesday, January 2, 2024

Bottom Line. Both granite and quartz are high-end countertop materials that add real estate value to a home. Granite appeals to people who like all-natural materials, while quartz offers easier maintenance and slightly better durability.

Which is more expensive granite or quartz?

Both materials are very durable and enhance interior designs and functionality, but which one costs less? Generally, quartz is less expensive than granite, but many factors influence the total price of a project.

Is quartz better quality than granite?

Quartz is actually harder than granite and thus, more durable. In fact, quartz is nearly indestructible, and because it isn't porous like granite, it's easy to keep your countertops relatively bacteria-free. Be careful with cooking pans though: Quartz can be damaged by excessive heat, so use heating pads at all times.

Why is quartz preferred over granite?

Quartz is Easier to Maintain than Granite

This countertop achieves a high level of durability without any sealant. As opposed to Granite, which requires re-sealing each year to maintain a less superior guard against the common hot pan, spilled wine, and dirty hands. An easy to clean countertop is the new kitchen dream.

Do buyers prefer quartz or granite?

Quartz is the preferred countertop surface in most homes. This is because of its many benefits including durability, ease of maintenance, wide variety of colors and ease of cleaning. It's no wonder most people prefer these countertops as opposed to wood, glass or granite. But do quartz countertops increase home value?

Granite vs Quartz Countertops | Everything you need to know!

What are the disadvantages of quartz countertops?

Quartz can be more expensive than other countertops but is generally cheaper than natural stone and other luxury options. It does require professional installation and can discolor when exposed to high temperatures and extensive heat for long periods.

Which is harder to maintain quartz or granite?

Taking the time to care for your granite will help maintain the natural beauty of your countertops. Quartz, on the other hand, is much easier to clean and maintain. Because quartz is a manufactured product, it is non-porous and more resistant to staining. Quartz is also well known for being GERM-FREE.

Can you put a hot pan on quartz?

You Can't Set Hot Pans on Them

Although quartz countertops are extremely durable and considered heat-resistant, putting a hot pan right on the surface can damage the material. As with most other countertops, you'll need to use a trivet or stove mitt to protect it, as heat can cause discoloration and/or cracking.

What lasts longer quartz or granite?

Granite is often cited as the most durable natural countertop material and is known for resisting cracks and chips. However, as a manufactured material, quartz rates a bit higher on the hardness scale and is slightly more resistant to damage.

Does quartz scratch easier than granite?

Durability: Quartz is one the hardest materials on the planet. This means it has a higher scratch resistance than granite and won't chip or crack easily. Great for applying to different surfaces including floors and stairs.

What is the best countertop for your money?

Quartz Countertops

Quartz is one of the strongest materials you can use, making it one of the best-value countertops available. Both scratch- and stain-resistant, quartz countertops can look brand new for years even after withstanding heavy usage.

Can you tell the difference between granite and quartz?

Size. In most cases, granite slabs are narrower and shorter than a standard quartz slabs. Granite being typically smaller means it's easier to install, but the downside is that they cover a smaller area.

What is the best stone for kitchen countertops?

When choosing a natural stone option, granite is widely considered to be the best stone slab for kitchen countertops. It has a reputation as a premium stone material that will elevate your kitchen design. One of the most appealing features of granite countertops are their beauty.

Does quartz stain easily?

They can if they are not properly taken care of. Quartz has been proven to be stain-resistant; however, it is not a stain-proof material. In fact, quartz countertops are susceptible to stains from coffee, tea, wine, and chemical spills.

Can you put a hot pan on granite?

Granite is naturally heat resistant, and heat damage would occur only if the granite was heated unevenly. So briefly putting a hot pan down on your granite countertop isn't going to cause long-term damage. That said, we don't recommend putting hot pans on granite countertops — not for the granite's sake but for yours.

Does quartz need to be sealed?

Quartz counters do not need sealing due to their lack of porosity. Liquids and stains cannot penetrate non-porous materials because they have a built-in seal. Natural stone countertops, such as polished marbles or granite, have pores and small splinters that require sealing on a regular basis.

What is best for kitchen quartz or granite?

Granite is a durable material that is resistant to heat and many other kitchen elements. Spilling liquids can be damaging if they receive a high liquid flow. Quartz is much more durable and harder than granite and is nearly indestructible because of its non-porous nature.

Can I put a hot cup of coffee on quartz?

The low threshold makes quartz more likely to burn or break when in contact with heat. Therefore, you can put a hot mug of coffee on your countertop, but a searing hot pan or boiling pot of water could leave a burn mark. Over time, coffee mugs and teacups could leave burn marks as well.

Can you put a coffee maker on quartz countertop?

Your coffee pot, a bowl of soup, or mug of hot tea won't damage quartz surfaces. It's best practice to place a barrier of some kind between a slow cooker or pressure cooker and your quartz counter.

Can you chop on quartz?

The bottom line is, yes you can cut food directly on your quartz counter. That's because this material is tough, hard and durable. It's actually one of the hardest materials you will come across. This means it's great at resisting cuts and scratches.

What are the pros and cons of granite versus quartz?

Hardness: Granite is sturdy and the most durable of the natural stone surfaces. But compared to quartz, surfaces are a touch less resistant to chips, cracks, and scratches. Use caution when handling heavy or sharp objects near your granite countertops.

What is better for bathroom quartz or granite?

Both quartz and granite countertops for bathrooms can last between 10-15 years; however, quartz is more durable than granite because it isn't porous. It's also easier to keep bacteria-free, although it can be damaged by excessive heat, so heating pads or trivets should be used at all times.

What is the price difference between granite and quartz?

On average, granite costs from $80-$180 per square foot. Quartz can vary from $50-$200 per square foot. Both of these prices include installation.

What is the most popular quartz color for 2023?

Most Popular Quartz Countertop Colors

Some of the top quartz countertop colors for 2023 include: Silestone Eternal Calacatta Gold – Its striking white color, golden hues and gray veins make this the most popular quartz color. Silestone Miami Vena – Another white color, but this option has a marble effect.

Does quartz yellow in the sun?

Too much sun exposure can damage your quartz countertops over time, leading to issues like fading, warping, and voiding of your warranty. Additionally, the UV lights can cause the colors in your countertops to fade—and even begin to have a yellow hue!

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