With so many options for kitchen countertops, granite and quartz tend to be the frontrunners. According to 2017 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study, two out of five homeowners choose one of these two surfaces, often for durability and easy cleaning.
Pro: Longevity
Granite It is time-tested and has universal appeal, you can’t go wrong with granite as a long-term investment. It almost always helps sell homes!
Pro: Wide Slabs
You can find slabs of granite that are more than 70 inches wide whereas quartz are generally 56-65 inches wide. Wider slabs mean fewer seams and a dip in cost!
Pro: Cost Effective
Granite has more cost effective options than quartz. Entry-level granite ranges from approximately $35 to $55 per square foot installed, which is very beneficial with larger kitchen spaces.
Pro: Natural Beauty
Granite is natural so every slab is unique. It offers one-of-a-kind patterns and textures that you won’t see anywhere else or in costly man-made quartz.
Con: Stains
Like other stones, granite isn’t naturally resistant to moisture. Spills and water rings can stain your granite if they sit too long. On the other hand, Quartz can handle long-term moisture.
Con: Maintenance
To prevent damage to the porous material, granite needs to be sealed every 2 to 5 years. You should also be mindful of the detergents you use to clean it, as certain soaps can stain the stone.
Con: Veins & Swirls
The natural veins and swirls is one of Granite’s stronger asset but it’s also a drawback for homeowners who want a cleaner look. Quartz is the better option for a clean, simple style.
Con: Strength
Granite is strong but it breaks far more easily than quartz. Larger pieces can suffer from breaks or cracks with the angles and turns during installation.
