Granite vs. Quartz – Which One is the Right Choice?
One of your biggest decisions when updating your kitchen will be whether you should go with granite countertops or quartz countertops. At Altra Home Décor in Surprise, AZ we know it’s more than just about price, it’s also about color, durability, design and maintenance. In order to make a well informed decision we must first properly define Granite and Quartz.
Granite is a very hard, granular, crystalline, igneous rock consisting mainly of quartz, mica, and feldspar and often used as a building stone. Quartz usually makes up 10 to 50 percent of the light-colored minerals in Granite, with the remaining minerals consisting of the feldspars and muscovite.
Quartz is a hard white or colorless mineral consisting of silicon dioxide, found widely in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. It is often colored by impurities (as in amethyst, citrine, and cairngorm). Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth’s continental crust, after feldspar. Its crystal structure is a continuous framework of SiO4 silicon–oxygen tetrahedral, with each oxygen being shared between two tetrahedral, giving an overall chemical formula of SiO2.
Still Confused on Whether to Go With Granite or Quartz?
So maybe the definitions above have still left you confused on which direction to go. Bottom line is this. Granite is known for its veiny movement and scratch resistant surface. Although a lot of people prefer this for their countertops, maintaining it could be a pain and will include regular sealant. Quartz on the other hand, includes a consistent somewhat “pebbly” design and is sealed for easier maintenance.
The History and Benefits of Granite
Granite comes from all over the world including, India, Egypt, Spain, Brazil, Norway and Africa. Canada and the United States also produce granite. Origin impacts the cost because of transportation and labor. Red granites and blue granites are considered rare which could also impact the cost. Some of the benefits include, color that never fades and increased value to your home.
The History and Benefits of Quartz
Although Quartz is an actual mineral, it was improved upon man’s ingenuity. This is why we are able to create a uniformed appearance. However, this stone is now manufactured to look more like granite in regards to its veiny movement. Quartz was originally developed in Italy and became popular in the United States in the early 90’s. People quickly realized the benefits which include, easy maintenance (no re-sealing required) Heat resistant, hard and durable.
Let’s Talk About Price
To set the record straight, there is a price difference, however, it’s not that far off. Granite can range from low-end to high-end, where Quarts usually starts mid-range of Granite. (Example: If Granite ranges from $50-$150 per sq. ft. then Quartz will typically start at $85 to $100 per sq. ft.) If that doesn’t clarify it I don’t know what will! So as to not muddy the waters even further, we can simply say, you are able to find a mid-range Quartz or Granite countertop to fit any budget, that’s comparable to one another.
Let Altra Home Decor Guide You Through the Remodeling Process
Where does this leave us? We know that both Granite and Quartz are durable and affordable so, It really comes down to personal style and design. If you are looking for something consistent in design throughout the entire kitchen, with low maintenance requirements, choose Quartz. If you are looking for something that has more of a natural stone appearance, with moderate maintenance requirements, choose Granite. Either way the decision to remodel your kitchen will ultimately be one of the best decisions you can make and it’s guaranteed to increase your home’s value.
Granite or Quartz in Your Kitchen – Phoenix and Peoria AZ Areas
Altra Home Décor is your source for kitchen remodeling, window treatments, custom drapery, flooring, and more! We serve the greater Phoenix area, including Peoria, Sun City West, Anthem, Buckeye, Glendale, Trilogy, Vistancia, Blackstone, and Scottsdale, with a showroom in Surprise. Stop by our locally owned store to view our full-size window treatment displays and sample books. Contact us today to schedule a free in-home design consultation!
