Granite vs. Quartz Countertops for Bathrooms

About Granite Countertops

• Granite is composed of igneous rock that must be quarried from the ground. It is cut and polished into countertop materials for both kitchens and bathrooms. Granite provides a hard surface that lasts for decades.

Advantages of Granite Bathroom Countertops

• Granite is a hard and durable substance that adds beauty and distinction to rooms. It is available in a wide variety of colors and patterns. No two stones are exactly the same, which means your countertop will never be the same as someone else’s. Granite is available in both polished and matte finishes. It is heat-resistant and scratch-resistant. Stains or damage can be repaired by an experienced stone contractor.

Disadvantages of Granite Bathroom Countertops

• Granite is an expensive material that can cost from $650 to $800 per slab at the time of publication, according to the WhitmoreGroup website. Granite must be sealed to protect the stone from stains and other materials that can penetrate into the stone causing it to discolor and deteriorate. The sealers are petroleum based compounds that must be reapplied yearly.

About Quartz Countertops

• A quartz countertop is a type of engineered stone. It is man-made but uses natural quartz aggregate that is held together with resins and other materials. Generally, quartz countertops are 93 percent quartz with the other 7 percent consisting of the materials that hold the pieces together. The quartz itself is a common mineral found in many areas of the world. After mining, the quartz is ground into small, uniform particles and mixed with the other ingredients and baked into a hard surface.

Advantages of Quartz Bathroom Countertops

• The process of engineering quartz into countertops creates a durable and stain-resistant countertop that offers a good appearance and easy maintenance. They are scratch and heat resistant. The cost of quartz countertops can be slightly less or equal to granite countertops, depending on the type and thickness of the stone. A variety of textures can be produced on the surface of the countertop to give it a unique look. Quartz also comes in polished and honed finishes. Quartz countertops do not require a sealant to protect the surface. Quartz will not discolor from hot pots or pans, though manufacturers recommend the use of trivets or other protection.

Disadvantages of Quartz Bathroom Countertops

• Quartz countertops lack the individual and unique quality that natural stone such as granite possesses. Quartz countertops are more difficult to repair successfully when inevitable accidents happen, according to Solid Surface.com website.