GRANITE OR QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS: WHAT SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?
Selecting materials for bathroom and kitchen countertops is often challenging, as two common options — Quartz and Granite — spark heated debates among homeowners. It’s not a straightforward decision to make either; both of these components are advertised by manufacturers as being robust yet economical choices. Consequently, many people struggle to come up with the right answer without proper guidance or knowledge about their unique properties.
So, how do we determine if one countertop material is functionally better than another? To help you distinguish between their individual properties and benefits, we’ve written an article to guide you in making a decision. In the end, it will be up to you to decide which dominates. We’ll begin by learning about these various countertop materials so that you can make an informed choice!
WHAT IS QUARTZ?
Quartz is a synthetic material manufactured from natural mineral quartz combined with resins, polymers, and other materials. It offers numerous advantages that make it an ideal choice for countertops. It’s highly durable and resistant to scratches, cracks, stains, bacteria, heat and UV rays. Quartz is also non-porous so it doesn’t require sealing or waxing; it’s always ready to keep looking clean and new.
WHAT IS GRANITE?
Granite is a natural stone formed by the cooling of molten magma which has been exposed to extreme temperatures over time. It contains all sorts of minerals like quartz, mica, feldspar and amphibole; these provide it with its distinctive color and texture. Granite is known for its durability and resistance to heat, scratches, bacteria, and staining. The only downside to granite counters is that they are porous; therefore, you must seal them every few years to prevent staining.
Compare Quartz and Granite
When it comes to comparing Granite and Quartz countertops, the biggest difference between them is their origin. Quartz is a man-made product while Granite is completely natural.
In terms of maintenance, Quartz requires very little effort to maintain its shine and beauty as it’s non-porous and doesn’t need sealing or waxing. On the other hand, Granite needs to be sealed every few years to prevent staining.
Appearance wise, both materials have unique patterns that can add an interesting look to any kitchen or bathroom surface. While Granite offers a more natural look with its distinctive color range and textures; quartz has a wide variety of colors which come from all sorts of minerals combined during its manufacturing process.
Price wise, Granite is generally more expensive than Quartz due to its natural origin and the lengthy process of mining and extracting it. But it all depends on where you’re purchasing your countertops from.
Finally, when it comes to durability and long-term performance, both materials are very reliable. Quartz is virtually maintenance-free making it a better option for those who don’t want to bother with frequent sealing or waxing. Granite may require a bit more work but if you seal it regularly, it can also last for years without losing its original charm.
In conclusion, both quartz and granite countertops make great choices for anyone looking for a durable and robust surface that adds beauty to the home. The decision will ultimately come down to personal preference; depending on what look you’re going for, one of these components will be the perfect choice!
We hope this article has helped you understand the differences between Quartz and Granite countertops. If you’re still unsure of what material to choose, it’s always best to consult a professional for advice. Good luck with your decision!
Originally published at https://theomnibuzz.com on January 27, 2023.