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Quartz vs. Granite Countertops: What You Need to Know

Posted by travis

A granite countertop installation provides an aesthetic natural stone look but so does quartz. Granite and quarts are the two popular countertop materials and have many similarities and differences. Below are key things to note about the two options when installing a countertop.

1.   Installation

Quartz and granite countertop installations are similar. They are both heavy slabs, and even a small 36-inch countertop can weigh more than 100 pounds. Installation involves placing the fabricated slabs in place. Granite countertops also require sealing.Before installation, the granite specialist will take measurements to fabricate the countertop and prepare the site. Each project is customized for the client, so no two installations will have the same process. A licensed specialist should complete the installation.

2.    Countertop Composition

Composition is an essential distinction between quartz and granite countertops. Granite is pure, natural stone dug from stone quarries, cut into slabs, polished, and fabricated for countertops, tabletops, and other solid surfaces. Quartz is an engineered stone product featuring a large percentage of natural quartz and other stones and minerals. Unlike granite, quartz doesn’t come from stone quarries. It is formed by grinding stone byproducts and molding them into slabs.

3.    Appearance

Granite comes from natural stone and depicts its natural patterns and formations. Since the formations are natural, granite countertops are custom with distinct appearances.Quartz countertops tend to have a uniform factory look because they are stone byproducts with standard production recipes. The countertops come in a wide range of patterns and colors, including some that don’t resemble natural quartz, so there’s no lack of customization.

4.    Costs

Granite and quarts are high-end countertop products. These countertops are heavy and make installation harder. The installation cost depends on size, thickness, colors, designer styles, availability, and other factors. Granite countertops can cost $80 to $180 per square foot, and quartz countertops cost $80 to $140, this includes installation.

5.    Value

Quartz and granite are premium materials and more durable than ceramic and tile countertops. Granite is 100% natural stone and porous, requiring post-installation and ongoing sealing as it ages. It may also feature inherent flaws but will last for many years if installed by experts.Quartz is more durable and features a resin finish that’s more resistant to cracking and staining. Both quartz and granite are high-end and increase the value of any property. Granite is 100% natural stone that requires more maintenance. Quartz is more resistant to stains and less porous so it has less maintenance required.

Reputable granite countertop installation in St. Louis 

Quartz and granite countertops are popular for residential and commercial projects and boast unmatched aesthetics and customization. Choosing one or the other is purely subjective based on personal preferences and budgets.Granite and quartz countertop installations are jobs that need experienced professionals. The cost, weight, and steps involved make such installations impossible without professional help.E&B Granite has provided custom granite countertops, tabletops, tub decks, patios, and other installations in St. Louis and Southern Illinois since 2002. The company is highly regarded for high-end products, installations, and customer service and prides itself in fast turnarounds. 

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