Suppose you and your family are involved in a granite vs quartz debate. In that case, it is undoubtedly going to be a heated one. For example, when you are renovating a kitchen or building a whole new one, you would want your countertops to get a special appearance, and both granite and quartz can make it possible. 

They both are durable, beautiful, and environment friendly, but you cannot use two! So, let us compare them depending on the six factors that we look to install the best countertop. In the end, you can make your pros and cons list to choose what you prefer. 

1. Build quality

1.1 Granite

Granite is extracted from the mining process that takes around the world. Each extracted stone is named after the quarry from where it is mined. Later these mined rocks are broken into slabs and polished as a granite countertop. 

1.2 Quartz

Quartz has some natural elements in them. In other words, they are made using natural quartz material and artificial resins that increase the durability it offers. 

The making process of a quartz countertop is slightly different and depends much on the brand building it. The ratio mainly includes 90% of quartz material and 10% of resins. But again, this depends on the manufacturer. Some can change the ratio to a lot. 

The building process mainly matters to those people who want to preserve the environment. But unfortunately, since granite is mined, it is not that environment friendly as quartz. 

2. Appearance

2.1 Granite

Luckily there are several different patterns and colours available in granite because of how it is built, i.e., cooling and solidifying after being a molten material. So, if you are looking for a countertop that brings a subtle enhancement to your kitchen and makes your slab stand out, then granite is best. It has unique mineral inclusion and a limitless collection to choose from. Also, one point to remember here is no two-granite countertops are the same. 

2.2 Quartz

People choose quartz as their countertops because of the appearance it creates. It gives out a stone look to the house owners and even customises the design. While granite offers you several options, your search must be good enough to find the best-suited piece for your kitchen. On the other hand, in quartz, the choosing process is much easy. 

3. Maintenance

3.1 Granite

Granite countertops require cleaning them regularly with soap and water or a mild kitchen cleaner. Also, there is a danger that acids and oil may hamper the overall look of the countertop, so make sure you are careful in avoiding stains. Moreover, to increase the longevity of the slabs, the house owners must also reseal them once a year. 

3.2 Quartz

You will also have to clean the quartz countertop with soap and water or kitchen cleaner for regular maintenance. But you do not have to carry resealing process every once in a while. 

4. Durability

4.1 Granite

Granite is a highly durable material resistant to constant heat and other harsh kitchen elements. However, it threatens to get stained when spilt liquids are left unattended as it is porous. Also, there can be damage if your counter meets a high-impact blow. 

4.2 Quartz

This one is harder in structure than granite and is thus more durable. Quartz cannot be destructed easily and is also not porous like granite. Another benefit is quartz countertop remains bacteria-free. However, be careful with the cooking pans as they can get damaged with too hot. Also, always remember to use heating pads before keeping them on the surface. 

5. Price

5.1 Granite

The most important factor that we look for that can turn your decision is the cost. For example, when we studied the market, the average cost of purchasing a granite countertop and installing it at home amounted to $2000 to $4500. However, there is a window for saving money if you purchase it from a wholesaler. Also, to save some more, you can do the preliminary work yourself. But make sure professionals do the installation. 

5.2 Quartz

Depending on the quality and style of quartz countertop you choose, the average cost of installing it can range from $3000 to $7500. Moreover, here also you can do your preliminary work and save money. But as engineered quartz is hefty in weight than others, the installation must be carried by trusted installers only. This is because it is not easy to ensure a structurally sound background. 

6. Scratch Resistance

6.1 Granite

As granite is a stone, it can easily withstand constant kitchen abuse. So, you do not have to worry about directly cutting on the granite, thinking that the surface may get scratched or scored. However, you still have to make sure that you use dull knives when cutting. 

Also, if possible, use a cutting board than the surface. The good point is even if the surface does experience some scratches, they are hardly noticeable compared to quartz. Moreover, granite is easy to repair for scratches, cracks, and chips. 

6.2 Quartz

Quartz is more prone to getting scratched than granite countertops due to the makeup on the surface. So, make sure you avoid cutting it directly and using a cutting board instead. Also, avoid moving heavy kitchen appliances from the surface, resulting in cracks and chips all over. So, lift them and place them where you want rather than scooting objects. 

Conclusion

By looking at the different factors and how they compete now, you must know why it is so hard to choose between the two. Both have their advantages and disadvantage. So, the only way to make your decision is how appealing you want your countertops to be, which cost you can afford and how much time you are willing to donate in maintenance. When you have these questions, you will also have your name.