WHICH STONE COUNTERTOPS SHOULD I GET: GRANITE OR QUARTZITE?

Kitchen countertops are available in a variety of shapes, colors, and materials. When choosing a material for your counter, there are numerous factors to consider. Kitchen countertops are made to last for years, if not decades, so you must make one final decision that will affect a large portion of your home life. Granite and quartzite stone countertop are popular choices. For starters, their endearing natural appearance irritates beauty-obsessed homeowners. Second, granite and quartzite countertops appear to last indefinitely because they are both strong and heat-resistant. Third, they do not require extensive upkeep.

Quartzite stone countertops are made from engineered stone sheets that are made up of 90% quartz crystals and 10% resin binder. They come in a variety of solid colors and, unlike granite countertops, are consistent and uniform in appearance. Because quartz counters have a much larger selection than granite counters, it is much easier to find one that matches your decor.

Because engineered quartz is not porous, it is less prone to staining. Because granite is a porous stone, it is more prone to permanent staining if not properly cared for. Food and liquids can be removed much more easily from quartz surfaces than from granite surfaces. Quartz countertops do not require the use of harsh cleaners. Countertops made of granite, on the other hand, do not. A small amount of soapy water and a sponge are all that is required. Selecting a cleaner for a granite countertop should be done with caution, as aggressive and abrasive cleaning agents may damage the sealant and expose the surface to stains. To stay clean and stain-free, granite should be sealed at least twice a year. Quartz countertops do not require sealing. 

The springiness of granite is much lower than that of engineered quartz. A granite counter is more likely to crack when a heavy object is dropped on it than a quartz counter. Granite countertops are more susceptible to heat. Traces of your work may linger indefinitely if you do not use a trivet or a cutting board. Although quartz countertops require the same level of maintenance as granite countertops, they are more refurbishable and likely to retain their beauty.

A granite countertop is difficult to install. Please do not attempt to repair it yourself and instead seek the assistance of a professional. Because of the weight of the stone, granite counters require a special support structure. Despite the fact that quartzite stone countertops are easier and less expensive to repair, it is still recommended that you seek professional help. If you’re torn between the two, you’ll have to decide which is more important to you. Purchase a granite counter if natural beauty is your only goal and you are willing to go down a more difficult path to achieve it. If you don’t care about the stone’s origin, buy a quartzite countertop to save time and energy!