Granite vs. Quartz Countertops: What’s the Difference? [infographic]

Here at Complete Kitchen & Bath, we offer a wide selection of beautiful, durable granite and quartz countertops. Although these two materials can often look virtually indistinguishable from each other, there are some important differences between them. In this article, we’ll go over some of these differences to help you make an informed decision on which material is best for your home.

• How They’re Made- The biggest difference between granite and quartz countertops is the methods used to produce them. Granite counters are made of 100% natural stone that is cut out of the ground from quarries all over the world, then cut down further into counter-sized slabs, and finally polished to a high sheen. Quartz counters, on the other hand, are manufactured from a mix of 95% natural quartz crystal and 5% polymer resins to bind them together.
  
• Color and Pattern Selection- Another difference between granite and quartz countertops is the range of design options they offer. While granite comes in a multitude of different colors and patterns that reflect the natural process that created the stone, you still have to work with the elements already present in the stone. Since quartz is manufactured, it offers more options for customization, and getting the perfect color and pattern for your space is much easier. Our team here at Complete Kitchen & Bath is happy to help you go over your options to find the best choice for your functional and design needs.

• Maintenance Needs- A third difference between these two materials is their maintenance needs. While both granite and quartz countertops can be easily wiped clean of any spills using a mild household cleaner, granite is naturally porous, and will need to be resealed every year or so in order to stay stain-resistant. Quartz, on the other hand, will never need to be resealed due to its resin content. No matter which you choose, you can count on our team at Complete Kitchen & Bath to help you keep your new counters in the best possible condition.