By David Wilfong
Kitchens and bathrooms are often the primary targets when it comes to a remodel. These areas are exposed to a lot of moisture, so the choice of materials used is an important decision to make. Quartz and granite are both growing in popularity for countertops and similar surfaces. They are an upscale alternative to the linoleum trends of yesteryear.
Many homeowners have questions over which is a better option. While it ultimately comes down to particular taste, there are some significant differences between the two.
“Granite is a pure natural stone mined directly from stone quarries and then cut into thin sizable slabs, fabricated and polished into countertops,” says Accent Countertops of Salt Lake City in its online blog. “Quartz countertops are engineered products containing a large percentage of real natural quartz mixed with other minerals for color and durability. Note that quartz slabs are not mined from quarries like granite. They are instead formed from stone byproducts ground up and bound up together with resin binders to form slabs for countertops.”
As far as appearance, granite is sometimes preferred as it is a naturally quarried stone, and every piece has a unique look and pattern. Quartz can come in a variety of appearances, and can emulate other materials as well.
There can sometimes be a significant difference in price, though neither choice is cheap.
“No question about it: Both granite and quartz countertops in Salt Lake City are premium, and high-dollar materials,” the blog continues. “In the past, if you were on a budget, these countertops would have been a no go zone. However, today, with the availability of various countertop deals and discounts from Accent Countertops, the price of granite and quartz has been made more affordable.
“The price difference will be determined by your style preferences, as well as the type of edge treatments you request. With quartz countertops becoming more popular and more available, the cost of basic countertops has really reduced, and you can get unique designer colors and styles at a huge discount.”
Quarta does hold some advantage over granite when it comes to maintenance. Granite is a natural rock, and therefore is a porous material. Quartz is non-porous and therefore can resist absorbing other materials. It does not require the periodic sealing which is required to keep granite in its top form. Granite can also be more prone to cracking than quartz, though it is a very durable material when compared to many other materials commonly used.
There is also the thought of how such a remodel might affect the future marketability of a home.
“Granite and quartz are both high-end countertop materials that will impress any potential buyer,” Accent Countertops adds. “When compared to laminate or ceramic countertops, both quartz and granite countertops will add more value to your property and make your house sell faster. Most home buyers, however, give a slight advantage to granite since it is 100% natural material.
“Both granite countertops and quartz countertops are premium countertop materials that will add real estate value to your home.”