Quartz or granite?

Whether you’re looking for a new home or upgrading your current one, most people look for granite countertops. After all, granite is a popular standard in modern remodeling for a reason: it has many advantages, including heat resistance, durability, and an aesthetic beauty. When people think of a “new” countertop, they almost always think of granite by default.

However, in this rush to embrace the (admittedly) wonderful granite look, many people overlook quartz countertops, which also have many advantages and can be less expensive.

What is quartz?

• Granite is taken from the earth as a natural slab of rock. This means that your countertop comes as a single, continuous piece, but it also means that you’ll need to take steps to protect it, and it may have natural coloration. Granite countertops have beautiful and colorful “waves” within them.
• Quartz countertops are comprised of a mixture of crushed quartz stone and resin. Since the quartz is crushed, there are more options when it comes to the look of the stone. It’s also already protected and is very durable. Typically, quartz countertops have a “clean,” uniform look to them.

What are some of the advantages of quartz countertops?

• In most cases, quartz is less expensive than granite: Depending on where you look, granite can cost more than quartz.
• It’s not porous: Unlike granite, which requires regular upkeep and refinishing, quartz usually only needs one finish—and that’s it.
• It’s as strong as granite but is more flexible: This makes them easier to install—although almost everyone agrees that you should hire a professional to install your countertops, no matter what they’re made of.

What are some of the disadvantages of quartz?

• Watch that UV light exposure: Over several years of being exposed to direct UV light from the sun, quartz countertops may begin to discolor. If your kitchen has parts of the countertop that are regularly exposed to sun and other parts that aren’t, that could be a source of trouble down the road.
• It isn’t as popular: Even if you’re buying countertops that you want, you have to consider what will be easier to sell when you go to put your home on the market. As of right now, some buyers will automatically rule out homes that don’t have granite countertops.
• It’s heavy: While it is more flexible than granite, quartz weighs more. Again, no matter what you choose, you’re going to need to go with a professional installer.

Which should I choose?

It really comes down to your budget and which look you prefer: the clean-cut aesthetic of quartz, or the natural beauty of granite. Either way, you can’t go wrong. If you’re having trouble making a decision, visit Superior Stone and Cabinet’s showroom in Phoenix.

Why buy from Superior?

Here are three reasons you should purchase your new quartz (or granite) countertop from Superior Stone and Cabinet.

1. We have some of the best prices on countertops in the state. If you’re looking for a quality counter for a great rate, you’re in the right place.
2. We only sell the best: When you shop at Superior, not only are you going to have access to an expansive collection of countertops, but you can rest assured that they’re all ready to live a long life in your home.
3. Free in-home estimates: We’ll provide you with a free personalized quote that lets you know how much your new countertops will cost in advance.

If you’re having trouble making a decision, visit Superior Stone and Cabinet’s showroom in Phoenix. Our countertop specialists can show you a wide diversity of samples and even build you a 3D computer model of your future kitchen or bathroom.

You can get started by visiting our website, or give us a call at (602) 437-0088.