At Stone Concepts, Inc., we understand that choosing between countertop materials isn’t easy. Unless you’re an expert on natural and engineered stones, you might feel lost trying to find the differences between all the countertop options in front of you.
One of the most difficult countertop debates is the one surrounding granite vs. quartz. While these two materials have a lot in common, there are a few traits that set them apart from each other as well. In this article, we’ll give you the pros and cons of each stone along with a brief rundown on their details to make your decision easier to handle.
Quartz
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Quartz is one of the hardest materials you can find—it can be likened to the toughness of concrete.
- Its patterns are uniform and predictable.
- It’s stain resistant and unwelcoming to bacteria.
- It involves very little maintenance.
- It’s a somewhat flexible stone, making it unlikely to crack and straightforward to install.
Cons:
- It’s possible for quartz to become discolored in direct sunlight.
- It’s not as heat resistant as natural stone.
- It doesn’t have the natural uniqueness that natural stone is known for.
Quartz is an engineered stone, which means that a small percentage of polymers and resins are included in its composition. These additives seal the natural pores of quartz and create a nonporous surface that never needs to be sealed.
Even though quartz is nonporous, it does not perform well outside—so it’s wise to choose another material for your outdoor kitchen. Under direct sunlight, quartz has the potential to fade, which can degrade its quality and looks over time.
Granite
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Granite is a recyclable material that contains no harmful chemicals.
- It’s very heat resistant.
- It’s very hard and therefore scratch resistant.
- It comes in many unique patterns and colorations.
Cons:
- The patterns can be busy or inconsistent.
- It needs to be resealed periodically, as it is a porous stone.
- Chipping, while not likely, is possible.
Granite is a natural stone that is sourced from quarries within the earth. It is an igneous stone made of mica, feldspar, and quartz, and it’s known for its unique, bold patterns. It can be found in homes across the nation and is well loved because it is extremely durable and can last for generations.
Just as much as it’s loved inside, people love granite in their outdoor kitchens as well. Unlike quartz, it has no problem with direct sunlight or the elements.
A Debate for the Ages
At Stone Concepts Inc., we know that deciding between granite and quartz is not an easy task, but we’re here to help you make a choice that you feel good about.
To learn more about these high-quality stones, get in touch with us today.
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