After looking through the considerable debate between different countertops you may be wondering “Are quartz countertops better than granite?”
It’s an interesting discussion with opposing sides each declaring that their countertop is definitely the one worth choosing. In order to put this debate to rest once and for all we have gathered together some information that you need to know about both granite and quartz countertops.
Are quartz countertops better than granite? – The heat factor
A lot of people are choosing quartz countertops over granite ones due to the fact that they are reported to be more heat and stain resistant. There has been a lot of word spreading around that it’s okay to rest hot pots on quartz directly whereas you would never consider it on granite. When you hear from granite countertop lovers, however, many are saying that they have been placing hot pots on their countertops for years without any damage.
Related: Are quartz countertops safe?
It’s important to note that both granite and quartz countertops can be damaged by extreme heat and even the manufacturers like Caesarstone suggest using some protection against hot pots and pans.
It all comes down to personal taste
If you’re comparing granite vs quartz you’ll be pleased to know that they have both been refined to give you durable performance that will last for years. In order to take care of either of these countertops it would be best to have something in place to put hot cookware on to protect the countertop just in case.
The main difference between the two lies in their appearance. Granite countertops have varying patterns and veins that make each one look unique. Quartz is more uniform and the variation from one top to another is minimal.
Related: Do quartz countertops emit radon?
Many homeowners and builders are choosing quartz now since it is durable and can last a lifetime. A quartz countertop is a mixture of resin, pigment and quartz stone and is generally scratch and stain resistant. Quartz does not require sealing and if a part of the countertop should happen to break off it can possibly be replaced due to the consistent pattern.
Brands of quartz countertops: Caesarstone, Hanstone, Zodiaq, Silestone, and Ikea
Granite, on the other hand, is a product of nature with natural variations occurring throughout the entire countertop. Should anything happen to the granite counter the entire piece would have to be replaced.
Budgeting for your countertop
When all is said and done granite is the more expensive countertop to choose. When you’re asking, “Are quartz countertops better than granite?” you’ll also want to factor in any price concerns. All in all, both quartz and granite countertops are generally equal in performance but differ in appearance and pricing.
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{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Hi Peter,
Thanks for sharing your article. I think both quartz and granite countertops provide the durability and beauty that most homeowners are looking for. But you’re right, taking heat, stain and scratch resistance into consideration is important.
No doubt, Jon. You really can’t go wrong with either option.
Peter, if your going to have a debate over quartz vs. granite. You need to get your facts straight, It is obvious that you are just repeating what you have been told by engineered stone companies. I have fabricated and installed both granite and quartz for 15 years. The real truth is quartz is not as durable as granite by far. quartz is made up of quartz and glue, the glue is not heat resistant or scratch resistant or stain resistant or uv stable. Granite is stone, not glue and stone. I can use a blow torch on my granite with no effect, cant say the same for quartz. You can’t even use a crockpot on some of the quartz brands.
Thanks for your input, Justin. While I don’t agree with you, and I’m sure you’re wrong I still value it. I’m not sure what “glue” you used to fabricate quartz counters with but it’s not the same as the resin that is used by quality brands like Silestone and Cambria.
I’m pretty sure nobody in their right mind is going to consider using a blowtorch on their countertop as normal use anyway.