In this post we are going to discuss the major differences in Granite countertops VS Quartz countertops. Granite and Quartz countertops remain the most preferred types of countertops in homesteads, whether it is for your kitchen or bathroom. To know why homeowners choose either of these, you must understand the origin and composition of each individually. Granite countertops are 100% natural. They are mined from unadulterated stone which is cut into slabs then polished. Quartz countertops are human-made. Also known as engineered stone, quartz slabs are manufactured through mixing different types of natural minerals such as granite, glass, and marble and a small percentage of actual quartz. In this post, we are going to look at the distinctive differences between Granite countertops VS Quartz countertops in Milwaukee based on the following features.
- Appearance
- Durability
- Cost
- Eco-Friendliness
- Cleanliness
Appearance
Looking at the first distinction of Granite countertops VS Quartz countertops, you will find that both come in beautiful selections of pigmentation and patterns. Granite displays slight, naturally occurring non-uniformity in its hues. To some, this is considered an advantage while to others it’s a drawback. Its unique colors vary from roses, earth tones, blues, and greens. Quartz, however, is more predictable in its coloration and has a wide array of colors to choose from due to the pigments added during its manufacture. From monotone to chromatic textures, Quartz has a lot more to offer than granite when it comes to appearance. That said, quartz can’t compare to the natural beauty granite gives. Some customers don’t put much emphasis on the coloring of their countertops while others are very keen to maintain as much purity as possible. This remains a personal preference since beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder. You can’t go wrong whether you decide to choose the granite or the quartz countertop.
Granite countertops VS Quartz countertops
Durability
The second difference in Granite countertops VS Quartz countertops is that granite countertops have to be sealed when installed and resealed every one to two years. They are considerably durable but not indestructible. Granite’s enduring nature makes it suitable for outdoor use. If poorly maintained, granite countertops are prone to cracking and chipping since granite is a natural stone. They also stain easily compared to other types of materials. Quartz countertops do not require as much maintenance as granite countertops. The resins used in the manufacture of quartz gives these countertops an added advantage of being extremely stain resistant and flexible enough to avoid chipping or cracking. Quartz countertops have also been observed to discolor when exposed to intense UV rays. Both have an approximated lifespan of 25-50 years, depending on how they are used and the amount of care adhered to
Cost
Cost is another factor that differentiates Granite countertops VS Quartz countertops. The decision to invest in either granite or quartz countertops depends mostly on the expense. Granite is less bruising to the pocket than quartz. In most stores, granite is prized at $40-$200 per square foot.
On the other hand, quartz costs $70-$175 per square foot, depending on the material. To have a 20 square foot kitchen countertop installed with either one, it would cost you around $500. When it comes to either product, you’re going to end up paying a lot for fabrication and installation. You may end up paying a slightly more significant amount to have a quartz countertop than granite, but the difference is insignificant unless your kitchen is huge. The most advisable thing to do in this case is to establish a budget with your installer and try to stay within it.
Eco-friendliness
This is another significant difference in Granite countertops VS Quartz countertops. Customers are currently looking for a more sustainable option when it comes to countertops. Some may argue that quartz is the more eco-friendly choice since it is manufactured using recycled materials, and since the water used in its production is afterward reused. However, both use a large amount of energy in their mining and shipping. Quartz goes beyond that and uses more energy to be crushed and mixed then bound together with polymers. Granite produces fewer carbon emissions in its manufacture than quartz. Both produce insignificant quantities of radon and volatile organic compounds. Although granite is seen to have a slight edge as an environmentally friendly countertop material, the truth is that both choices are okay for kitchen use and sustainable since if used and maintained well, they last a lifetime.
 Maintenance
Another difference in Granite countertops VS Quartz countertops is that quartz is nonporous since it is an engineered stone. This means that it is easier to keep germfree since bacteria and viruses cannot harbor in it. Granite, being natural stone, has pores within it which make it porous. These tiny capillaries on granite countertops are very absorbent, and they suck up liquid, making them prone to staining. These pores also promote germ and bacteria growth. However, if sealed and well taken care of, granite countertops do a reasonably good job maintaining cleanliness. The ease in keeping quartz countertops clean and mold-free is an advantage over granite, which is why homeowners with small kids or the elderly prefer them.
Granite countertops VS Quartz countertops
If after doing your research on discount Milwaukee countertops you decide that you prefer authentic stone, then granite countertops Milwaukee is your best option. Have our professional installer seal it for you regularly and keep a dishcloth handy to avoid staining and they will serve you long and well. If on the other hand you favor engineered stone over natural stone and you would like one that offers a broader range of color and less upkeep, the quartz countertops Milwaukee will work well for you. Either way, you can’t go wrong with whatever choice you make between the two.
