Quartz or Granite: What’s better for kitchen countertops?

Your kitchen is probably the most functional area of the kitchen, and you have to be very specific with your choice of material for every corner. Countertops need more attention, because you would be doing most of your chores on these counters. There are a wide range of material choices for countertops, especially for the kitchen, and if you are in Montreal, you can check the showrooms of top manufacturers and vendors, such as Granite au Sommet, for samples in ideas. This post, however, is a straightforward comparison between quartz and granite – the two most popular options. 

Reviewing granite

Granite is a natural stone that’s extremely durable, heat and stain resistant, and meant to last. Sealed as needed, granite countertops can look the same over decades, and maintenance is hardly a concern. Granite, being a natural stone, doesn’t always look the same when ordered in batches, so uniformity could be a matter of worry for some projects, especially if yours is a big kitchen. In other words, no two granite countertops are ever the same, which can be an advantage too. Granite is heavy, so that may add to the shipping and installation costs. 

Reviewing quartz

Quartz is not entirely natural as granite. These countertops are engineered and made from 95% natural quartz and 5% polymer resins. One of the biggest advantages of this material is the appearance. No matter the theme, concept or décor of your kitchen, you can expect find the right match in quartz countertops. In other words, comparing your choices and finding a pick is easier with quartz than with granite. In terms of installation, engineered quartz needs professional work, and you may have to spend on transportation, just like granite, because the material is heavy. 

Other things to note

If you want to consider environment-friendliness as factor, quartz may be slightly better than granite, as it is engineered. Both granite and quartz need regular cleaning, although there is not much difference in maintenance needs. Granite countertops, however, much be sealed, which is an important consideration. In terms of durability, quartz is stronger than granite¸ but this shouldn’t be a big concern, considering granite is hard enough for kitchen use too. Quartz, however, is not as heat resistant, especially when compared to granite. 

Now that you have figured out the basics, go ahead and check with a known manufacturer to understand whether quartz or granite is more likely to suit your kitchen.