If you are in the process of building or redesigning your kitchen, you have probably been functioning on very little sleep as you work toward creating the perfect space to meet your family’s needs. One of the major aspects to design is that of your kitchen countertops. We’re sure that you’ve heard different opinions on which type of material is best for using as your kitchen countertops. When it comes to adding beauty and value, two of the most sought-after countertop materials are quartz and granite. If you’ve decided that you want a natural stone for your countertops, but are stuck on determining which material is best for your needs, hopefully we can shed some light on the subject.
Both quartz and granite will give your home a majestic feel. This is due to the natural beauty found in stone. Both types of kitchen countertops will add value to your home. However, there are some unique differences between the two that you need to be aware of before you make your choice. In order to be the most helpful, here is a brief synopsis of both granite and quartz kitchen countertops.
Granite countertops are by far one of the most popular choices for kitchen countertops today. This is because granite is beautiful, available in a variety of colors, easy to clean and maintain, and hard to damage. Granite has the added benefits of being resistant to bacteria and dirt, as well as heat. In fact, there are only a few drawbacks to granite, which include:
- The need to be sealed (depending on what type of granite you get)
- Chips that may occur (if you accidentally drop an extremely heavy item on a corner, or make the unsafe choice to stand on your countertops)
- Expense to install
- Visible seams in the countertops
Quartz is actually man-made from stone. These kitchen countertops are durable, naturally stain-resistant (so you don’t need to seal them), softer than granite (which means that it won’t chip as easily), resistant to bacteria, and any seams are much easier to hide. It is also cheaper to install than granite. The only drawbacks to quartz are that it is heavier than granite, may discolor over time through exposure to sunlight, and is more susceptible to damage from heat.
Essentially, both granite and quartz kitchen countertops will provide your kitchen with an ethereal beauty, and they will last for a long time. Granite will provide a more traditional feel to your kitchen, while quartz is more modern. The choice really depends on what characteristics are most important to you, and what your budget will allow. If you have questions about the differences between quartz and granite, contact us at The Granite Guy. We will gladly answer any additional questions you may have.