Quartz or Granite: Which Kitchen Countertop is Better? A Comprehensive Guide to Comparing Materials for Durability, Maintenance, and Cost.

1. Introduction

A kitchen countertop is not just a functional surface; it’s a key element of the interior design. Choosing the right material directly impacts the durability, aesthetics, and overall cost of the kitchen. Today, we’ll examine the advantages and explore potential drawbacks of the two most popular options on the market: granite kitchen countertops and quartz kitchen countertops.

Buyers often face a tough choice: the natural look and heat resistance of granite, or the ease of maintenance and variety of designs offered by quartz? To determine which material is better, we’ll compare them across key factors—from durability and maintenance to cost—and answer the question: "Do these countertops add value when selling a home?" We’ll also share tips on where to find the best contractors for countertop installation. So, make yourself comfortable; it’s going to be an informative read!

What You Will Learn From This Article

• What Quartz and Granite Are
• Advantages of the Materials
• Care and Maintenance
• Durability
• Cost Comparison
• Environmental Impact of the Materials
• Will a Home Sell for More if It Has Quartz or Granite Countertops?
• The Best Companies for Quartz and Granite Countertops
• The Final Answer to the Key Question: Which Countertop Is Better?

2. What Are Quartz and Granite?

Granite is a natural stone extracted from rocks and processed into the desired shape. Each granite slab is unique in its pattern and texture, as it is created by nature.

Granite slab variant. Sample

Quartz is a man-made material composed of 90-95% natural quartz sand, bonded with polymer resins. Thanks to added components, it offers a wide range of colors and patterns.

Quartz slab variant. Sample

Popularity:

Granite countertops are traditionally valued for their natural appeal and durability. Quartz options are rapidly gaining popularity due to their practicality and variety of designs.

Price Range:

• Granite: $40 to $100 per square foot, depending on the quality and type of stone.
• Quartz: $50 to $120 per square foot, due to more complex manufacturing and a broader range of designs.

3. Advantages and Disadvantages of the Materials

Advantages of Granite:

• A natural material with unique patterns.
• Excellent heat resistance – can handle hot pots and pans.
• High strength and durability.

Disadvantages of Granite:

• Requires regular sealing to protect against stains.
• Offers fewer color and texture options compared to quartz.

Advantages of Quartz:

• A vast variety of designs and colors.
• Easy maintenance: no sealing required.
• Highly resistant to bacteria and stains.

Disadvantages of Quartz:

• Less heat-resistant than granite.
• Its artificial origin might deter natural-material enthusiasts.

Comparison by Key Parameters:

• Aesthetics: Granite – natural patterns; Quartz – a wide range of designs.
• Durability: Both materials are highly resistant to mechanical damage.
• Heat Resistance: Granite takes the lead.
• Longevity: Both materials last for decades with proper care.

4. Care and Maintenance

Granite Countertops:

• Require regular sealing every 1-2 years to protect against stains.
• Cleaning with a soft sponge and neutral cleaning agents is recommended.
• Avoid using abrasive cleaning products.

Housewife takes care of the countertop

Quartz Countertops:

• Do not require sealing due to their non-porous surface.
• Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and soapy water is sufficient.
• Highly resistant to stains and bacteria, making them ideal for kitchens.

Maintenance Costs:

Quartz is significantly easier and cheaper to maintain, while granite requires additional effort and expenses for sealants.

5. Durability and Strength

Granite:

• Resistant to scratches, but may crack under heavy impact.
• Tolerates high temperatures, so hot cookware won’t damage the surface.

Quartz:

• Very durable and scratch-resistant.
• Not as heat-resistant as granite – hot items can leave marks.

Extreme Conditions:

• Both materials can be damaged if a heavy object falls, but quartz is more likely to maintain its integrity due to the resins.

6. Comparison of Costs and Characteristics

7. Environmental Impact of the Materials

Granite:

The production of granite involves the extraction and processing of natural stone, which results in CO₂ emissions and landscape disruption. However, its natural composition makes it environmentally friendly in terms of its use.

Granite extraction. Photo from Marble.com

Quartz:

The production of quartz countertops requires the use of resins and energy. The artificial components can negatively impact the environment, but their durability helps offset some of the damage.

For quartz countertops, the mineral is extracted, then crushed into small particles and processed. Photo: Screenshot from the YouTube channel Avant Mining.

How to Minimize Harm

• Choose local manufacturers to reduce the carbon footprint.
• Ask if the countertops are made from recycled materials.

8. Do Countertops Increase the Value of a Home?

High-quality kitchen countertops are an important factor for real estate buyers. Both granite and quartz increase a home's appeal, but quartz, with its modern design and ease of maintenance, tends to attract more interest from younger buyers.

Statistics show that homes with high-quality kitchens sell for 5-10% more. Investing in durable countertops can pay off when reselling.

9. The Best Companies for Countertop Fabrication and Installation

Finding a contractor for your project isn’t always easy: browsing through hundreds of companies, reviews, and asking friends for advice. You’ll always make the right choice, so we want to recommend our Countertops Contractors ranking.

We’ve already compiled a large selection of companies and suggest choosing from the best of the best. Our team has carefully selected 2,188 companies based on strict criteria. In the ranking, you’ll be able to find a trusted contractor and contact them to discuss the details of your project.

Example of Perfect Stones' Kitchen Countertop Work. Photo courtesy of the company.

Example of CL Quality Corp.'s Kitchen Countertop Work. Photo courtesy of the company.

Example of AGS Stone's Kitchen Countertop Work. Photo courtesy of the company.

10. Which Countertop Is Better for the Kitchen: Quartz or Granite?

The choice between granite and quartz depends on individual needs and priorities.
If you value naturalness, unique natural patterns, and high heat resistance, granite countertops will be the ideal choice. They are perfect for those who are willing to regularly maintain the surface and invest in its longevity.
If ease of maintenance, hygiene, and a wide range of designs are more important to you, quartz countertops are the way to go. They are easier to maintain, more stain-resistant, and perfect for modern interiors.

So, which countertop is better for the kitchen?
Quartz wins in terms of convenience, durability, and aesthetics for most modern users. However, for lovers of natural materials and those who value exceptional heat resistance, granite remains the best choice.

Thus, the perfect option depends on your preferences, lifestyle, and budget. We hope we’ve been able to help and wish you wonderful projects and the best contractors for them!