Not sure whether you should choose granite or quartz countertops for your new or remodeled kitchen or bath? We compare both the pros & cons of granite versus quartz counter-tops so that you can make an educated decision once and for all. Even though both have their strong points and weaknesses, this information will help you decide what is best for you, your family, and your home.

Pros & Cons of Granite

Pro – Granite is a natural stone which makes it one of a kind. The appearance is usually not uniform so you can be assured no one else will have the exact stone as you. Patterns vary so have fun picking out your very own slab.

Pro – Granite is all natural. It is made up of primarily quartz, feldspar, micas, amphiboles, and a traces of additional minerals. It’s mined in blocks and cut into slabs which are then polished.

Pro – If sealed properly granite can be considered stain-resistant. You can upgrade to a 15 year seal from the manufacturer so that your concerns can be put to rest.

Cons – Natural stone starts out more affordably priced than quartz, but exotic natural stones can be much, much, more expensive than quartz.

Cons – When making selections with samples you must keep in mind that the sample can differ from the stone you receive. So select your slab personally to ensure you receive what you chose.

Cons – Some granites are dyed, usually the darker colors like black. Always ask if your stone is dyed for over time its colors could fade or even become blotchy if an area is wet more often or cleaned more often like a prepping area on your kitchen countertop.

Pros & Cons of Quartz

Pro – Quartz does not need to be sealed for protection ever. They offer a virtually no-maintenance solution for countertops.

Pro – Quartz is stain-resistant, so don’t worry about the red wine ring on the countertop.

Pro – Quartz is man-made. It is composed of 90% crushed quartz, resins, polymers, and pigments. It is poured into slabs and sizes vary depending on the manufacturer.

Pro – Since quartz is made with some resin and polymers, this makes it more flexible than granite. Making it easier to work with during the installation process.

Pro – Since quartz is non-porous, it won’t collect and harbor germs such as bacteria and viruses like natural stone will if not sealed properly. Some manufacturers like Silestone treat their countertops with a germ-fighting coating that enhances hygiene.

Cons – Over time in direct sunlight, quartz can discolor due to the UV rays from the sun.

Cons – Quartz is not as heat-resistant as granite due to the resin and polymers used in its manufacturing.

So basically it pretty much comes down to whether you prefer a countertop that is made of a natural stone or is man made. Granite is certainly durable, beautiful and one of a kind but needs more maintenance to protect it.

Meanwhile quartz is non-porous, stain-resistant, possibly germ-fighting, and easy to clean and has a larger selection of color & design.

So if you are elderly or have young children that are susceptible to viruses and bacteria, quartz might be the best option because it is easier to maintain. On the other hand the rare beauty and unique nature of natural stone is hard to pass up.