Quartz and granite are standard options for homeowners when choosing materials for kitchen and bathroom countertops. Both materials are popular due to their durability and aesthetic appearance, so deciding which one to choose for your countertop installation might be challenging. Here are the features of quartz and granite countertops to help you decide which is more durable:
Manufacturing Differences
Quartz is an engineered stone made from ground quartz crystals, resins, polymers, and pigments. The manufacturing process yields a non-porous, uniform surface that mimics the look of natural stone. Granite is a naturally occurring stone mined from quarries. They are cut into shape by manufacturers. Because it is naturally occurring, granite slabs have varying colors and patterns depending on their mineral composition, meaning no two countertops are the same. Installers seal granite slabs during countertop installation to prevent liquids from seeping into your countertops, as the material is porous.
Heat Resistance
Granite is a natural stone formed under extreme heat and pressure, which makes it more heat-resistant than quartz. You can place hot pots directly onto a granite countertop without causing thermal shock or heat damage. Due to the resins used in their production, quartz countertops are typically more vulnerable to heat damage. Placing a hot pan directly on a quartz surface could cause discoloration and sometimes cracking in the countertop. Using trivets or heat pads can help protect quartz countertops from harm when you put hot pots on their surfaces.
Scratch and Impact Resistance
Both quartz and granite are hard materials, but quartz is slightly harder because it is manufactured. Due to its hardness, quartz is highly resistant to scratches from kitchen tools. Granite is a thick, heavy material, allowing it to resist scratches and retain its smoothness properly. The resins used to manufacture quartz make it more flexible than granite, adding to its impact resistance. Quartz countertops are slightly more resistant to chipping and cracking than granite. Avoid dropping heavy objects onto the corners or edges of granite countertops to prevent chips.
Stain and Bacterial Resistance
Porosity impacts your countertops’ stain resistance as it determines whether liquids can seep into the surface and cause discoloration. Quartz is a non-porous material, which makes it resistant to staining from coffee, wine, oils, and other everyday kitchen items. Its non-porous nature also makes quartz countertops less susceptible to harboring bacteria. Granite is a natural, porous stone that can absorb liquids if not sealed properly, leading to bacterial growth within the surface. Sealing your granite countertops periodically can keep them stain-free and cleaner throughout their lifetime.
Get Durable Countertop Installation Options
Quartz and granite are high-quality countertop installation materials with varying levels of durability depending on what they are exposed to. With proper care, both countertop materials can serve you for a long time. Should you choose quartz for your countertops, protect it from heat exposure to preserve its lifespan. Go for granite if you prefer a heat-resistant surface and the beauty of natural stone. Maintenance services like sealing and avoiding cutting food on granite countertops can protect them from damage.
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