Kitchen Countertops: Granite vs. Quartz

A high quality kitchen countertop surface manufactured from granite or quartz can provide extra dramatic statement to virtually any living space. So, if you are thinking about updating your kitchen space, you are very likely to stumble upon granite or quartz countertops mainly because they are among the most durable and desirable options.

Quartz Kitchen Countertop by Cambria

Granite countertops come with an increased resistance to scratching but this aspect depends upon the natural hardness of the granite minerals that are used in order to make up the granite countertop. Unlike any other man made materials, a polished granite countertop comes with movement, enhanced clarity and depth.

For instance, there are hundreds of granite patterns and colors for you to choose from and they are very likely to offer the most movement and variation when it comes to slabs.  Also, granite countertops are pretty resistant to chips, staining, heat and scratching. If something happens to your granite countertop, you can have it repaired by your local stone fabricator. Additionally, granite countertops can be used outdoors or indoors.

On the other hand, quartz countertops, also known as engineered stone countertops, are made from a hard mineral that makes them durable and even similar in nature when compared to granite countertops.  Quartz countertops come in a very wide range of colors including the natural look of concrete, limestone or marble. These countertops offer enhanced resistance against chipping, scratching and staining; also, they can be used indoors or outdoors. Quartz countertops are extremely stain-resistant: for instance, they are highly resistant to daily household products that include make-up, cooking oil, coffee and wine and, unlike a granite countertop, you will need no sealing to maintain their original shine and resistance.

They are scratch-resistant as well – however, excessive pressure or force is likely to cause a scratch while lighter movements such as the slip of your knife aren’t likely to leave any marks on your quartz countertop. As for their strength, quartz countertops are about 3 or 4 times harder when compared to granite countertops. Their flexural strength is the main reason why quartz countertops are so popular among homeowners worldwide. This extra strength is what makes a quartz countertop less likely to be damaged when transported, installed or used on a daily basis.