There are numerous factors to consider when replacing your kitchen countertops with new ones. First, consider value and quality. Are you willing to pay a little more for quartz or natural stone, which lasts longer than laminates and can help increase the value of your home? Natural stone or quartz is durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of extreme cooking and frequent family gatherings, in addition to being a good investment for your home. So, if you’re ready to make a significant improvement to your living space, here’s what you need to know about quartz and natural stone countertops.
What are they made of?
Natural stone countertops like granite are mined and cut into thin slabs before being polished and fabricated into countertops. Quartz countertops are engineered stone products that may or may not contain a high percentage of natural quartz. They are not quarried stone slabs, but rather stone byproducts that are ground up and formed into slabs for countertops and other products.
Which looks better?
The main advantage that natural stone has over engineered stone is that each slab is slightly different in mineral pattern and color, resulting in a one-of-a-kind countertop. Quartz countertops are more uniform in appearance as an engineered product, though many colors and unique patterns are available, including forms that do not resemble granite at all. Personal preference governs this decision. If you want the look of natural stone, choose a product that is truly natural. However, many people believe that quartz countertops look different and better than natural stone.
Cost Differences
There is no doubt about it: Natural stone and quartz are both high-end countertop materials. Neither is significantly less expensive than the other. Granite countertops cost between $80 and $175 per square foot, installed. The price difference is determined by the style chosen as well as the edging treatments requested. Quartz countertops cost between $80 and $140 per square foot to install. As quartz has grown in popularity and availability, the cost of basic countertops has decreased, with unique design styles and colors commanding higher prices.
Property Value
Both of these are excellent building materials that will impress potential buyers. Natural stone and quartz countertops increase the real estate value of your home when compared to laminate or ceramic tile countertops. Some buyers may give granite or other natural materials a slight advantage because they are one-of-a-kind slabs.
Bottom Line
It comes down to personal preference because both materials have excellent properties. Choose quartz if you want a material you can install and forget about. Choose granite if you have a busy kitchen and don’t want to risk damaging your countertops with a hot object. Do you want to learn more about your options for stone countertops? Please contact us and we will tell you everything you need to know.
