Granite pros
- It’s less expensive. Granite countertops cost more than laminate countertops, but that isn’t the case with quartz countertops. On average, granite countertops cost less than quartz. Expect to pay anywhere from $45 per square foot for entry-level granite to $85 per square foot for more exotic slabs (price includes installation and fabrication). According to The Kitchn, the price could be higher – up to $400 per square foot in some instances – depending on stone rarity and origin.
- It won’t look like anyone else’s. Instead of keeping up with the Joneses, set yourself apart. No two slabs of granite are alike. Because it’s a natural stone, granite has variation that only God and nature can control. Quartz countertops, on the other hand, are man-made, and while there are small differences between slabs of the same style, there isn’t as much variation. If you want countertops that are unique to your home, go granite.
- It comes in bigger slabs. The average length of a quartz slab is about 10 feet (certain manufacturers allow you to order jumbo slabs). Though that may seem long, it isn’t enough to avoid cuts in larger kitchens and islands. In other words, your countertops will definitely have seams. But some granite slabs are longer, in the 11-12 foot range. If you have a large island or spacious kitchen, granite may be the answer to avoid seams.
- You can install it both indoors and outdoors. Granite is built to withstand the elements since it’s a natural mineral. It won’t weather or fade because of long-term exposure to the sun. It’s more versatile than quartz in this sense. Granite is perfect for outdoor kitchens and facades.
Granite cons
- It has more environmental impact. Though there’s a myth that granite countertops emit harmful radiation, the Environmental Protection Agency says there isn’t sufficient evidence. The environmental impact here has more to do with how granite is made. The Kitchn notes that mining granite is resource intensive and that it takes a lot of energy to transport, and common sense tells us the environmental impact is significant any time you’re using natural resources.
- There aren’t any “clean” styles. For the minimalist, granite just won’t cut it. Granite countertops have a lot of variation and movement. They aren’t like quartz countertops, which offer solid colors and clean, marble-white styles. If you’re planning a modern design, quartz countertops will likely be your best option.
- You have to reseal it. Again, and again, and again. Otherwise, moisture can seep into the porous parts of your granite and damage it. You should reseal your granite at least once a year to make sure it’s properly maintained.
Source: Granite vs. Quartz Countertops – Tukasa Creations, Inc.