Which is More Durable: Quartz or Granite?

Granite Guy Inc.
Introduction
If you are faced with the decision of granite or quartz for your new countertop, your head may be spinning. Which one will stand up best to everyday use? Particularly if you have a large family and do a lot of cooking and entertaining, you want a countertop that will withstand all that abuse and still look great for years to come. So which is better for durability: quartz or granite? Ultimately, the choice may come down to personal preferences and the specific needs of your household, but granite offers unique natural beauty and durability that can add value to your home.
Let’s take a look at both.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz, an engineered stone, contains 90% natural quartz, 10% polyresin, and added pigments for coloring. Once mined and blended with the polyresin and pigments, the mixture is placed into a mold, cured, and sold in slab form.
This extremely durable stone can withstand the harshest of conditions due to its hardness and heat resistance.
Mineral hardness is measured on a scale of 1 to 10. A 1 is soft, and a 10 is very hard. Quartz is at a 7.
It also happens to be quite stain-resistant due to its nonporous nature. Don’t take this to mean it’s stain proof, though. Some things can stain the surface, such as coffee, tea, paint thinners, and abrasive household cleaners. But overall, it fares well in high spill environments.
It’s also scratch-resistant, so you can cut directly on it. However, you probably still want to use a butcher block or cutting board so your knives don’t get dull.
One thing quartz isn’t is heat resistant. It won’t handle heat above 300 degrees F very well thanks to the polyresin contained in it (it’s a plastic). It’s best to keep hot pots and pans off it, as those could lead to burn marks and discoloration. Use trivets before setting a hot pot on the counter.
The good news is, quartz does not need a sealant because it is nonporous.
Introduction to Countertop Materials
When it comes to choosing the perfect countertop material for your kitchen or bathroom, there are several options to consider. For those looking for a budget friendly option, materials like laminate and butcher block can be cost-effective choices. Two of the most popular countertop materials are quartz and granite. Quartz countertops are made from engineered stone, which is a combination of natural materials and resin. Granite countertops, on the other hand, are made from natural stone.
Both materials have their own unique benefits and drawbacks, which will be discussed in this article. Other popular countertop materials include laminate countertops, solid surface, and butcher block. Each of these materials offers different aesthetics, durability, and maintenance requirements, making it essential to choose the one that best fits your needs and lifestyle. Other popular options include materials like marble and solid surface, each offering unique benefits and aesthetics.
Granite Countertops
Granite, a naturally sourced stone, doesn’t have additives like quartz does. Formed from the cooling of lava through millions of years, granite contains many minerals, such as natural quartz, feldspar, and other minerals. It is mined all over the world, such as Brazil, China, India, and Italy.
Granite counters are highly resistant to heat, scratches, and stains. On the hardness scale, granite is at a 6, which is just a tad lower than the quartz. It’s important to note, though, that this will depend on the actual slab you get – some can be a 5 while others can be a 7. Each granite slab features unique patterns that add to its natural beauty, especially when polished to a sleek finish.
Honed black granite is particularly popular in farmhouse or country kitchen designs.
It’s a highly resistant stone in terms of heat, scratches and stains. It needs a sealant to achieve this, though. Even so, you should always immediately wipe up any spills just in case. Wine, coffee, juice and abrasive cleaners may stain the surface slightly. Granite is available in many colors, offering a wide range of choices for homeowners.
Granite is scratch resistant, but take general care not to chop or cut on it, to play it on the safe side and to preserve the sharpness of your knives.
It’s heat resistant as well, but use a trivet with hot pans to be safe. Also, be aware of temperature extremes. You don’t want to set a piping hot dish down on the counter, followed by a very cold item. Granite can withstand heat up to 480 degrees F.
Because quartz and granite are so close in durability, the one you ultimately choose will come down to personal preference.
Solid Surface and Countertop Materials
When it comes to choosing the perfect countertop material for your kitchen or bathroom, there are several options to consider. Solid surface and countertop materials are popular choices due to their durability and low maintenance requirements.
Quartz countertops, for example, are made from engineered stone and are known for their heat resistance and non-porous surface, making them resistant to stains and scratches. Granite countertops, on the other hand, are made from natural stone and offer a unique natural beauty with inherent flaws that make each slab one-of-a-kind.
These countertop materials not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your space but also provide practical benefits that cater to different needs and preferences. Whether you prefer the consistent patterns of quartz or the unique patterns of granite, both materials offer excellent durability and style for any kitchen or bathroom.
Durability Comparison: Quartz vs. Granite
Understanding the key differences between quartz and granite countertops can help you make an informed decision. Both quartz and granite countertops are highly durable and can withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
However, quartz countertops are more resistant to scratches and resist staining due to their non-porous surface. Granite countertops, while still durable, require sealing to prevent stains and can be prone to heat damage if not properly maintained.
In terms of durability, quartz countertops are often considered a better option for busy kitchens and bathrooms. According to peer-reviewed studies, quartz countertops have a higher resistance to scratches and stains compared to granite countertops. This makes quartz a highly durable choice for those who prioritize low maintenance and long-lasting beauty in their countertop material.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Proper maintenance and upkeep are essential to extending the life of your countertop material.
Quartz countertops are relatively easy to maintain, as they are non-porous and do not require sealing. This makes them a low maintenance option for busy households.
However, granite countertops do require periodic sealing to prevent stains and scratches. While this may seem like an extra step, it helps preserve the natural beauty of the stone and ensures its longevity.
Laminate countertops are another popular option, but they may require more frequent replacement due to their lower durability.
It’s also important to consider the cost of maintenance when choosing a countertop material, as some materials may require more frequent sealing or polishing. By understanding the maintenance needs of each material, you can make an informed decision that balances both aesthetics and practicality for your home.
Cost Considerations
The cost of quartz and granite countertops can vary depending on several factors, including the quality of the material, the size of the countertop, and the installation costs.
On average, quartz countertops can cost between $50 to $100 per square foot when installed, while granite countertops can cost between $40 to $100 per square foot.
However, it’s essential to consider the long-term costs of each material, including maintenance and the initial quartz cost. Quartz countertops are generally considered a low-maintenance option, while granite countertops require periodic sealing to prevent stains.
When budgeting for your new countertops, it’s important to factor in both the initial cost and the ongoing maintenance to ensure you choose the most cost-effective option for your home.
Bacteria Resistance
Both quartz and granite countertops, including engineered stone countertops, have their own level of bacteria resistance.
Quartz countertops are non-porous, making them highly resistant to bacteria and other microorganisms. Granite countertops, while still resistant to bacteria, can be prone to harboring bacteria if not properly sealed and maintained.
According to studies, quartz countertops have a higher level of bacteria resistance compared to granite countertops.
However, it’s essential to note that both materials can be cleaned and maintained to prevent the buildup of bacteria and other microorganisms.
Regular cleaning and maintenance can help to prevent the growth of bacteria and keep your countertops looking their best. For a hygienic kitchen or bathroom surface, both quartz and granite can be excellent choices when properly cared for.
Contact Granite Guy
Still not sure? We can help you make a decision between quartz and granite when you contact our stone installers in Boston at 508-460-7900.
Visit our stone showroom and see some beautiful examples of quartz slabs and natural granite slabs available today. Located on Route 9 in Southborough, Massachusetts.