These two impressive countertops look very similar…on the surface. But its composition, origins, and weight differ remarkably, although both are superb materials, both are beautiful and long-lasting.
Both quartz and granite stones originated from genuine natural materials. Quartz is a vitreous silica, a non-porous hard, crystalline mineral composed of silica. Conversely, granite is a porous, hard, naturally occurring igneous rock formation with a visibly crystalline surface of quartz and orthoclase or microcline.
The
manufacturing process is where their distinctions come into play.
Fundamentally, quartz stone is an engineered stone while granite is a
natural stone with amazing countertop surfaces. The manufacturing process
of granite surfaces entails a delicate and dangerous method for it was taken
piece by piece from large granite slabs and cut to the desired countertop
specifications. Whereas quartz surfaces were produced by combining crushed
quartz crystals with resins and other minerals thus creating what is called
"engineered stone" before fashioning it into a quartz countertop.
Installing
Countertops
When purchasing
countertops for your bathroom or kitchen, you must understand what you are
looking for in a countertop. Once you have decided, it is then easy for you to
discern between granite's inconsistent swirls and quartz's more consistent look.
Granite countertops highlight distinctive forms and colors, and their
appearance varies naturally. If you value the authenticity and uniqueness of a natural
stone, a granite countertop is for you.
In contrast, Quartz
countertops, being engineered stones perfectly mimic the look of a natural
stone but can readily be distinguished because it bears a more consistent
appearance. So, if you prefer a contemporary aesthetic and consistent predictability,
engineered quartz stone may complement your interior style.
Now that you have decided which countertops fit your style,
installing them is easy.
However, the weight of the countertop can also be an important
consideration in the installation process. You must consider that granite
countertops are exceedingly heavy owing to their dense stone composition, with
quartz being the lighter is more convenient to install. Installing granite
countertops requires extra care and may need additional structural support.
Furthermore, transporting and handling granite slabs can be laborious, which may
imply higher installation costs if the installer must use specialized
equipment.
In comparison, Quartz countertops fabricators can craft engineered
quartz slabs to their desired thickness uniformly, thus making them simpler to manage
and install. But if you are a DIY guy, you can even install it yourself.
Durability and
Maintenance
Stone countertops are usually found in high-traffic
areas such as bathrooms and kitchens, which is why wear and tear is an
important aspect that should be considered. In these areas, the durability of
countertops is at the top of the discussion. Though both quartz and granite countertops
are exceptionally durable, granite is best against heat, whereas quartz is best
against spills.
However, since granite is porous, it is susceptible to liquid
spills and stains if not properly sealed. Quartz countertops being non-porous
are more stain-resistant and you can worry a little less about spills. Moreover,
solid, and exceptionally heavy granite countertops are highly resistant to
scratches and heat. Thus, putting hot pots and pans directly on it is not a
problem. However, this cannot be said for quartz countertops because they are not heat
resistant. Putting hot pans and pots directly on a quartz countertop will lead
to cracks.
Furthermore, Quartz countertops normally
have lower maintenance compared to granite ones. Granite countertops need
sealing to prevent stains and maintain their "immaculate" presence.
You must periodically repeat the sealing process, resulting in more maintenance costs than some homeowners prefer. Conversely, quartz countertops do not require
sealing, which might be appealing to you if you desire more streamlined maintenance.
Also, cleaning these countertops is straightforward, but you should avoid
using abrasive cleaners or acidic substances. They will damage the glossy
surface! A mild soap solution and warm water are enough to remove dirt and grime.
About JPA
Jose Richard P. Archival has been writing articles on KPO/BPO
industries for several years, specializing in electronics, DAS (Distributed
Antenna System), travel, and the home & office industry. and is also a one-time
manufacturer and exporter of furniture internationally. Graduated from college
with a Bachelor of Science in Electronics and Communications Engineering and a
post-graduate master’s in business administration. Also, exploring the outdoors
is an escape… nothing bets nature!
