Difference Between Quartz and Granite

If you're planning a kitchen remodel, you will also most probably replace your counters. Which Are the Best Counter Tops for Your Money?When it comes to the remodeling of your kitchen, nothing is more visually important than your kitchen countertops. 

In our opinion, when replacing your existing countertops, the two most asked-for options are granite and quartz. Similar to having hardwood floors, realtors will tell you having either granite or gray quartz countertops will help increase the value of your home.

What is the Difference Between Quartz and Granite?

Both quartz and granite are highly sought-after materials. In reality, you can't go wrong with either one. It's really a matter of preference. 

Granite is 100% natural and is mined from quarries throughout the world.

Quartz, on the other hand, is 93% quartz and 7% resin.

Granite vs. Quartz Appearance

Appearance-wise, some granite will have little or no pattern while other granite will have bold patterns. Since Mother Nature doesn't specialize in consistent, repeatable patterns, we recommend that you view granite slabs in person as each one can have very different visuals.

Quartz will usually replicate the look of marble with its veining and whites and gray colorations. Initially, when kitchen quartz worktop first came on the market, it replicated the look of granite. Once manufacturers changed the look to marble, quartz exploded as a countertop choice.

Countertop Durability & Maintenance

Both materials are very durable. The benefit of quartz is low maintenance since it never needs to be sealed because it is non-porous. Granite will need to be sealed usually every 12 to 18 months to prevent staining.

Granite because it is 100% natural stone can have hot pots placed on it without causing any damage. Quartz, on the other hand, because it consists of 7% resin filler, may be damaged by heat. For that reason, you will want to be careful not to place hot pots on the surface. It's not recommended.

Is Natural Marble Good for Counter Tops?

Another question that comes up with countertops is whether natural marble is a good choice.

Marble is a beautiful stone; however we do not recommend it for a heavy use kitchen counter top. The reason is that marble is softer than both quartz and granite worktops and is more susceptible to staining. In other words, it's a high-maintenance option for your kitchen.

Cost Guide for Template, Fabrication and Installation.

First, let's talk about the bait-and-switch price often advertised of $59 s/f installed for counters. Sure you can pay $59 s/f if your counter is a perfect rectangle with no cut outs or finished edges.

Chances are, if you're shopping for granite and quartz counter tops, your kitchen is probably a little more complex than that. That significantly affects cost.

Creating a Template for Your Counters

Once you've selected your countertop material, your dealer will carefully measure and template your existing counters. A template is usually made of ⅛-inch-thick strips of plywood that are hot-glued together. It's similar to a dress pattern in that it allows the fabricator to cut out a shape that will fit perfectly over your existing sink, with room for faucets, soap dispensers, etc.

Countertop Fabrication & Installation

Pricing can vary from fabricator to fabricator based on their quality of work. Everybody buys the slab for a similar price, larger fabricators do get a price reduction. 

The countertop finish happens during the fabrication process. You have three options:

1 - POLISHED

A polished finish happens by honing and buffing the granite or quartz surface with fine abrasives until it develops a natural high-gloss shine of its own. 

2 - HONED

A Honed Finish means that the stone's surface has been ground down slightly to achieve a consistent, smooth texture and flat, matte finish.

3 - LEATHERED

A leathered surface usually has a soft sheen to it but is much less shiny than the glossy look of a polished slab.