Comparing Quartz and Granite Countertops

UNION CITY — When it comes to kitchen countertops, two of the most popular materials on the market are quartz and granite. Both materials are similar in some ways while very different in others. To make an informed choice, it’s a good idea to learn about these similarities and differences.

Similarities

Fabrication/Installation: Both quartz and granite countertops are fabricated and installed in virtually the same way.

Dimensions: Regardless of what material it’s made of, your countertop will have the same thickness (typically two to three centimeters).

Differences

Composition: Quartz is a man-made, non-porous material that is easy to clean and doesn’t require any auxiliary sealers. Granite, on the other hand, is a natural stone product. Any stone product is porous, which means it will absorb liquids and form stains. For this reason, granite countertops need to be sealed and resealed from time to time to protect against staining. Fortunately, if you get a quality sealer, your countertops should only need to be resealed every 25 years.

Price: You can get a granite stone slab for as little as $8 to $10 per square foot or as high as $150 per square foot. In contrast, quartz has a much narrower price range: $30 to $60 per square foot.