Granite vs Quartz countertop
Whiile most people choose granite for its natural beuaty, quartz has been gaining popularity. Learn about the similarities and differences here:
Granite:
Granite is commonly, 1 1/4" thick, a natural stone that is cut from a large slab to exactly fit over your cabinetry. I find it enjoyable to go to the stone yard and look at the large slabs. There are always color differences and pattern differences between every piece. Lot to lot, the colors and direction changes; selecting the exact slab for yourself is special. This surface requires the maintenance of sealing, not unlike waxing your car. Based on the size of your kitchen, there may be seams. The radon scare was proven to be false and there are no health issues caused from this material. The surface can be polished, honed (when the shine is removed) or leathered (no shine with an uneven surface).
Cost: Starts at $45 per square foot, for eased edge
Lead time: Installs 1 - 2 weeks after template
Durability: Highly durable, although use a cutting board, as to not dull your knives
Maintenance: Needs to be sealed once a year, or until the water no longer beads on the surface. This is the most popular countertop choice.
Quartz
A growing choice, it is also a solid surface, and is resistant to staining and burning. Color choices have increased over the years, amongst 5 manufacturers and it does not need to be sealed. Templated and installed similar to granite. Most have a polished surface, some colors are factory honed. There are colors that are not found in nature, to add a pop to your kitchen.
Cost: Starts at $60 per square foot, for eased edge
Lead time: Installs 1 - 2 weeks after template
Durability: Highly durable, although use a cutting board, as to not dull your knives. It is stain resistant, non-porous and scratch resistant. This is a very durable countertop choice.
Maintenance: None required
Want to know about more countertop choices? Download our Kitchen Countertop white paper!