Granite vs Quartz

The debate about what's better, granite or quartz, has been long running. While one looks better, the other may very simply be easy to maintain. The comparison regarding granite vs quartz will always remain. The most commonly found comparison between the two is when considering whether it should be quartz or granite countertops. But why get into such meaningless hassles? You could very simply weigh the pros and cons of each, and base your entire decision on that alone. So how about listing out some advantages and disadvantages regarding both. We'll begin with an individual look at each, and then move on to the pros and cons.

Granite vs Quartz Comparison

Granite
Did you know most people agree with the notion that granite countertops increase the resale value of a house. Now even though this may be purely a question of perception, but to most, granite countertops in the kitchen is like taking them a step closer to their dream kitchen. It seems possible because of the grandeur in its look, which other materials like ceramic tiles, laminate, or stainless steel do not offer. An added advantage with its increasing popularity is that the price of this material seems to be coming down too. If the one thing that epitomizes quality and elegance, fits a woman's kitchen renovation budget, it's like a dream come true. After all, who wouldn't want their dream kitchen to actually be affordable!

Quartz
Given that quartz is most often an engineered stone, it is easier to maintain. High resistance to scratches due to its non-porous nature, it makes for a very practical material to have around the house. While it may look good, there is a certain distinguishing factor, which helps tell you quartz from granite. Another advantage with this material is the range of colors you can pick from. Given a choice, you definitely would have a lot more to pick when dealing with quartz. You can also be at ease when thinking durability, because quartz is fairly long-lasting.

Granite vs Quartz Countertops: Pros and Cons

The competition between these two materials can be put to an end with a little comparison between them.

• Granite offers a resale value that quartz does not.
• The option of a 100% natural granite is always available, but quartz is always engineered (93% natural, 7% pigments and resins).
• Due to the engineered nature, quartz will always be available in a uniform color, while granite will not.
• Granite provides better heat resistance as opposed to quartz.
• When considering durability, think quartz. As nice as granite may look, quartz is just going to last longer.
• Striations are also a bit of a concern in granite. This flaw can be engineered out of quartz.
• Price is not something that can be compared, since both of them are pretty expensive.
• Quartz is not as high maintenance as granite.
• Regarding the Radon issue, although it is said that Radon (a lung cancer causing radioactive gas) is found in both, it is present in smaller quantities in quartz. However, if you still insist on using granite, you might want to look into engineered granite.

These was a small list of advantages and disadvantages that are associated with each of the materials. The final decision is definitely about what appeals to you most. The most common deciding factor is always a combination of monetary as well as aesthetic value. On a lighter note, there is a variety of colors to choose from when narrowing down on countertops of either material. Here is a little bit to choose from...

Granite Countertop Colors
Black or white is a beautiful choice for a contemporary feel, these colors would look lovely if used in bedrooms. Not many people consider the use of lighter colors like blue or green, but they are excellent picks when looking to do up your bathroom. It's almost impossible to imagine your bathroom look terrible on using these colors. While yellow is bright, teaming it up with beige creates a lovely balance of color. This combination would work well for children's bedrooms. Those were the not so common colors, but if none of them work for you, you can always turn to the common ones like gray and the likes of it.

Quartz Countertop Colors
Quartz undoubtedly offers you a larger variety to choose from. Some colors to pick from are, gray, white, cream, pearl, brown, green, mahogany, bamboo, or even red.

Now that you know all about both the materials, you can take your time and decide on what you want most. Either way, you'll have lovely looking countertops. One of them might just be a little more expensive. That's it!