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 slightly higher on the hardness scale and is slightly more resistant to damage. You can clean both materials with mild soap and water. For all practical purposes, quartz is maintenance free.
Its non-porous surface repels dirt and moisture to resist damage caused by stains. The hardness of the resins is well resistant to scratches and chips. Standard all-purpose cleaners work well for cleaning. Both quartz and granite provide a durable countertop material for your home, and most quartz manufacturers offer a warranty of up to 10 years after installation.
As quartz is a non-porous surface, it is not as prone to staining. In addition, an engineered stone, such as granite countertops, quartz is more flexible and less subject to breakage than natural materials. So-called artificial stone countertops can withstand daily use and can be repaired with a special resin. The main difference between granite countertops and quartz countertops is their composition.
Granite countertops are made of 100% natural solid stone, with no additives other than superior sealants. Quartz is an engineered stone that is made from crushed quartz, other minerals, and resins. The process is simple, you can do it yourself using stone sealants sold at home improvement stores and online. So don't let sealing influence your decision - it's just not that big of a deal.
The truth is that neither granite nor quartz are indestructible. Both can be stained, both can be scratched, both can be chipped. The same basic care and maintenance apply to both materials. Each granite slab has a slightly different mineral pattern and color, meaning your countertop will be unique.
These materials are often used interchangeably, and you can better decide with detailed information about granite and quartz countertops. Quartz countertops, as an engineering product, have a more uniform appearance than granite countertops. The price of quartz per square foot is approximately 120 to 150 g, while the cost of granite countertops is approximately 100 to 130 per square foot. However, recent studies indicate that there is little or no radon coming from granite or artificial stone countertops.
For reference, here are some of the most common and trusted brands associated with quartz and granite countertops. Granite countertops feature a wide variety of patterns based on the vagaries of the Earth and volcanic events that occurred millions of years ago. Both quartz and granite are high-end materials, but when it comes to quartz countertops versus granite countertops, quartz is still relatively new to the home improvement scene and doesn't have the same appeal. Granite countertops have some heat resistance and are scratch-resistant enough to prevent chipping from everyday use.
Both quartz and granite countertops are premium building materials that improve the enjoyment of kitchen and bathroom users, as well as adding solid resale value to the home for the future. Granite and quartz countertops are generally considered positive aspects that increase the resale value of a home.