Granite vs Quartz
Knowing the difference between granite and quartz will let you answer the question ‘Which one would you prefer as a worktop for your kitchen, Granite, or Quartz?’ Now, this is a question that is not easy to answer as people have their own preferences. Both granite and quartz are equally popular in all parts of the world. They are natural stones mined from beneath the surface of the earth. Both look stunning when used inside or outside a home as a surface. However, both granite and quartz have different features making them suitable for different requirements. This article will take a closer look into their respective features and properties to make a buyer choose between the two depending upon his requirements.
More about Granite
While both granite and quartz are found naturally, granite slabs are natural stones. Thus, granite countertops are naturally found. Of late, however, engineered granite can also be purchased from the market. Granite is more porous than quartz thus necessitates sealing to prevent seepage of moisture inside it. If not sealed regularly, it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and other microbes. For this reason, maintaining a safe kitchen can be a problem with granite. Granite is more brittle with some parts being denser than others and also some parts having higher percentage of quartz than others. Then again, when it comes to cracks, if your countertop is granite, you can breathe a sigh of relief as it is possible to apply surface polish that makes the crack almost unnoticeable. One drawback with granite is that it tends to change its color to either a darker or lighter shade. This makes it difficult to change a piece as you would not be able to find the matching color in the market.
More about Quartz
While both granite and quartz are found naturally, quarts can be found as small crystals that are made into a stone by adding colors and resins. Thus, quartz is an engineered stone. As far as strength is concerned, quartz is stronger of the two and is also easier to shape than granite. Moreover, quartz countertops are not porous as they are sealed with resins and thus are more beneficial from the health point of view.If the quartz countertop, over a long period of time and use, gets damaged at a point, it is impossible to repair it in a way that the cracks get well hidden. However, this happens depending on the color of the quartz. This is because of resins that are used to bind the material. So there is a possibility that you may have to replace the countertop if the damage is too severe. When it comes to color, quartz, as it is engineered and colors added with sealants, tends to retain its original color for a very long time period.
What is the difference between Granite and Quartz?
As both are naturally found, their prices vary and fluctuate depending upon their availability and the location of your home. Both, however, have the ability to enhance the beauty and elegance of your home if properly installed. They are both long lasting and good looking.
• Both granite and quartz are naturally occurring stones found beneath the surface of the earth.
• Granite is porous while quartz is not porous.
• Granite can be repaired through surface polish while quartz cannot be repaired as to hide the repairs from being seen (if the quartz is of a lighter shade).
• Granite tends to change its shade with passage of time while quartz retains its original color over a very long time period.
• Quartz has a higher strength and durability than granite.
• Quartz is scratch proof whereas granite may get scratches.
• Granite needs regular sealing while quartz does not.
Images Courtesy:
- Granite countertop by Domain Custom Homes (CC BY-ND 2.0)
- Black Quartz countertop by Chris Lattuada (CC BY 2.0)