Quartz or Granite for Bathrooms and Kitchens
When it comes to countertops for kitchens and bathrooms, quartz and granite are two of the most popular materials used. Quartz, a man-made engineered stone, is made from a combination of crushed quartz and binders like resins and polymers. It comes in many styles including marble-look, solid color, natural stone-look and patterned. Compared to granite, which is naturally occurring, it offers a more uniform look with less variation in pattern. Common quartz colors include white, gray, off-white and black.
Granite is a natural stone sourced from rock quarries around the world. There are many variations and colors of granite to choose from, and no two slabs are completely alike. Granite’s natural beauty and texture comes from its unique veining and specks. It comes in a range of colors including gray, off-white, brown, black and more.
Quartz vs. Granite — Key Differences to Consider
When remodeling a kitchen or bathroom, making big design decisions — like choosing countertops — can be difficult. Before choosing a granite or quartz countertop, learn about the main differences between the two. Though granite and quartz offer a similar look, they do differ considerably. Below, we’ll look at the main differentiators between these two popular countertop materials.
Durability
Quartz is extremely durable and resistant to staining, scratches and bacteria. It’s also not likely to crack or chip. Though it’s considered heat-resistant, it’s less resistant to heat compared to granite. In the kitchen, you’ll have to use caution when putting hot cookware on countertops — a trivet is always recommended. The same goes for a bathroom countertop made from quartz. Use caution when placing any hot styling tools, like hair curlers or straighteners, on a bathroom countertop.
Granite, although durable and incredibly heat-resistant, is a naturally porous stone. Because of this, it requires sealing annually or every other year to prevent stains and bacteria from forming. Wine, oil and coffee are the most common culprits when it comes to granite stains. Chipping can also occur in granite slabs, so it’s a good idea to be cautious.
Maintenance
Of the two, quartz requires less maintenance overall. It doesn’t require sealing and it’s easy to clean with mild soap, water and a microfiber rag. Granite, however, typically requires specialty granite cleaners that are less abrasive than standard countertop cleaners. Granite, unlike quartz, also requires polishing in addition to cleaning to retain its shine. For more info, check out our guide on How to Clean Granite.
Appearance
Because granite is a naturally occurring material, each slab is completely unique and has its own color and textural variations. Quartz offers more consistency than most granite as it's man-made, and it comes in many colors and different patterns. There are many quartz options that look very similar to naturally occurring granite, if you're hoping for the organic look of granite without the maintenance required to keep it looking sleek and polished.
Cost
There are many factors that influence price, including how rare a slab of granite is, as well as the sealants used to protect it. Generally, quartz is more expensive than granite. Quartz, while often more expensive up front, may require less maintenance and sealing which can counterbalance the long-term cost difference.
Let Lowe's Simplify Your Countertop Project
From helping you choose the best countertops for your home to design and installation, Lowe's does it all. Before you begin your project, take our Kitchen Style Quiz to get inspired. You can also use our online kitchen visualizer to see how countertop materials will look with different cabinets, flooring, wall paint and more. If granite or quartz countertops aren't for you, check out our other in-stock countertop materials including butcherblock, laminate and solid surface.