Marble, for example, is elegant in appearance, while granite offers a more natural look. To make an informed decision for your new interior design, you need to be aware of the pros and cons of the different types of surface finishes. The Final Faceoff: Quartz vs Granite. If you’re buying the granite countertop from a separate company than the one installing it, make sure you choose a company that guarantees they bring it into the kitchen. The quotes are free, and there’s no obligation to buy. However, since it takes... Heat Resistance. Approximately two weeks after templating, the stone will be installed by the fabricator. You can learn more in my guide to the pros and cons of quartz countertops. Granite is a forever countertop. Granite countertops are scratch-resistant. Instead of using granite for the entire kitchen, people are mixing quartz and marble with granite. Before I discuss the pros and cons of granite countertops, it’s important to know what it is, where it comes from, and how it’s made into countertops. Not only is granite heat and scratch-resistant, but it’s also naturally stain-resistant. Pros – Affordable, warm look and feel, and naturally anti-bacterial. You can find granite that’s red, pink, brown, blue, grey, or white. Cons – Soft and porous meaning is scratches and stains very easily. It’s heat resistant and durable, even more so than quartz or marble. And when well sealed, it’s nearly stain-proof. Stain-Resistant I explain each advantage and disadvantage in detail, so you can confidently decide if granite is right for your kitchen. If you look at trends on Google, you’ll see that searches for “granite countertops” hit a peak in February 2010 and leveled off since then. Both quartz and granite countertops have a natural allure that adds a modern, updated look to any space. Granite is an igneous rock that forms from the crystallization of magma beneath the Earth’s surface. Most people love this natural look, but for many, it’s a drawback. Granite, on the other hand, is 100% natural. Homeowners wishing to create a number of interior design themes can turn to black granite countertops in order to really tie the whole look of their kitchen or bathroom together. -Think carefully about how your countertops will be used – not just how they look. One of the main reasons why black granite countertops are so widely favoured is because of their versatility. Blinds vs. Materials such as quartz are sometimes advertised as natural, but they can contain resins and other synthetic materials. Be especially careful around the sink cutout. And, no matter the design of your kitchen, you’ll find something to complement the overall look. To give you some context, below are the average prices of granite and its primary competing materials, according to HomeAdvisor.com. This means that if you click and/or make a purchase through certain links on this site scottmcgillivray.com may make a commission from that click and/or purchase. If you’re sure you want granite, choose the design wisely. Granite Countertop Cons . There are many other things to consider like the composition, durability, maintenance, environmental issues, and real-estate value. For years, granite countertops have been a top selection for homeowners looking to improve the look and feel of their overall kitchen. Most manufacturers will apply the sealer to the countertops before installing, and this initial sealing will last for up to 10 years. Even after years of owning your granite countertops, they will still look new. Concrete counter photo via DIY Network, stainless steel counter photo via Decoist. Silestone Countertops: The Pros & Cons. Granite Countertop Pros and Cons. -Consider using two different counters in one kitchen – one for work surfaces and one for the island (if applicable). Installing new cabinets and countertops will completely transform the look and feel of a kitchen. Quartz is a commonly used material for indoor floors, backsplashes, and countertops. Granite vs. Quartz Countertops Pros and Cons. So yes, granite is a “renewable” resource. As long as the granite is well-sealed, it’s safe for outdoor use. Make sure your cabinetry structure is sturdy enough to handle the load. ... Not too long ago, granite countertop options were a rarity; today, because of greater availability and an increased number of fabricators, granite tops are more common and affordable. -Be honest about how much maintenance you’re willing to commit to. Granite is a sanitary option. Pros – Requires very little maintenance and is stain, heat and water resistant when sealed. Cons – Crumbs, spills and fingerprints show up very easily plus it scratches and dents easily. Today’s top two upscale countertop options, granite and quartz, are competitively priced with one another. Cost is always the primary reason to consider using epoxy to refinish a countertop. Granite used for countertops begins with mining the stone, deep in the ground, and cutting it into slabs, typically 9 to 10 feet long and 5 to 6 feet wide. Most of the granite used as building materials originates from Brazil, but some varieties of brown granite come from China. If you’re all set on a white or gray countertop we can help you narrow down your choices. Cost: $75 to $125 per square foot, installed. If you’re going for a more minimalist and modern look, granite won’t fit the bill. Pros – Low maintenance, doesn’t need to be sealed, heat & scratch proof, and easy to customize. If left on the countertop, acidic substances can degrade the seal and leave the granite more vulnerable to stains. There is a world of options, like stone and quartz, zinc and concrete, laminate and a product that revolutionized kitchens back in 1967: acrylic solid-surface material. … You’d be surprised by how many companies drop off the granite slabs outside and expect the homeowners or installers to carry it inside. Me: Trust me, I’m 100% right about this. Quartz countertops are top-rated in Consumer Reports' tests, narrowly edging out granite. You’re not alone. Re-sealing is not difficult; follow the sealer manufacturer’s instructions. Cons – Not as durable as natural stone, not heat resistant, and can be difficult to clean. Pros Incredibly Versatile. Quartz countertop doesn’t need extra maintenance; as long as you keep the surface clean then it is durable. So you know, risks of cracking come with most countertop materials, including quartz and marble. The best part about quartz countertop is that it looks like a real natural stone that shows luxury and elegance. This guide covers unique properties, pros and cons, looks, maintenance requirements, durability aspects, and pricing considerations […] It’s then transported to a factory where it’s cut into slabs. Home Depot reports that the average cost for the countertop alone is $29 per square foot, compared to $52 per square foot for solid surface material (such as Corian), $58 for granite, and $68 for quartz (engineered stone). For an average-sized kitchen island, expect to pay between $1,200 and $2,100. If you’re remodeling your kitchen or picking materials for a new-build, choosing countertops is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. and can go as high as a couple hundred dollars for rare stones. Granite is a natural stone, and granite countertops don’t contain synthetic resins and additives often found in other countertop materials, such as laminate. Featured Image Source: SilestoneUSA.com. One of the biggest choices you'll make in a kitchen or bathroom is the surface material for countertops. And for every color, there are thousands of shades and patterns. However, there are some potential weaknesse, cons, countertop, granite, kitchen, low maintenance, options, porous, prices, pros, sealing, staining While you can choose a lighter shade of granite, you can’t get a completely solid color (like you can with quartz) because of the natural grains and veining. Granite doesn’t just look pretty; it’s practical, too. Durable Resin Finish; When epoxy hardens, it creates a solid surface that should last for years. It was imported into the United States from Italy and came with a hefty price tag. It’s mainly composed of quartz and feldspar, but it can also contain mica, amphiboles, and other minerals. Cost: $50 to $150 per square foot, installed. Why? In contrast, quartz has been steadily increasing since December 2009. If you have an L or U shaped layout, the slabs will need to be cut and joined together. Granite countertops are fabricated specifically for your kitchen. And when it’s time to re-seal, it’s an easy DIY process. If protecting the granite from the sun is not possible, just be aware that the initial bright shine may slowly dull. So, let’s take a closer look at the key features of the two most popular types of granite finishes – honed granite versus polished granite . But there’s more to know about the benefits of this popular material. Because of its appealing and unique look, granite is often used for high-end construction, including monuments (Mount Rushmore is mostly granite), stairs, fireplace mantels, floor tiling, and, of course, countertops. It has lovely and unique color variations within its grain that gives a room extraordinary aesthetic appeal. … HomeAdvisor vs. Angie’s List: Differences, Similarities, Pros, and Cons, How To Clean Stainless Steel Appliances Without Streaking, How To Properly Take Care of Granite Countertops. While granite sometimes has a darker hue, you can find lighter shades if you want a brighter kitchen. From style to color to durability to cost, there are a lot of factors to consider. Though granite can handle harsh cleaners, I don’t recommend using them every day. Cons – Not very heat or water resistant, marks easily, and requires regular maintenance. But if you change your mind, once it’s installed, it’s difficult — nearly impossible — to remove it without damaging the cabinets underneath. As long as you choose an attractive and quality design, granite can increase the value of your home, especially if you’re replacing laminate, tile, or other cheap and outdated materials. Pros – Requires very little maintenance and is stain, heat and water resistant when sealed. If you have a lovely outdoor kitchen area and are looking for a countertop to hold up to the elements, granite is a great option. Some granite countertop designs are now considered outdated, especially the darker colors. Granite. They’re incredibly durable and hold up better than almost every other material. It is certainly not the most cost-effective solution for countertops if you’re on a tight budget. You can expect to pay $8 per square foot or less, even if you hire a professional contractor to do the work for you. For example, quartz can only handle between 150 and 300°F of heat exposure. It comes in light and dark colors, boasting long, smooth veins and small flecks and grains. It … Their test showed that both granite and quartz are stain-resistant, but quartz performed best. Since then, other countries such as Brazil, China, and India, have become the largest exporters of granite, and the shipping and cutting processes have evolved. Pros of Porcelain Countertops. After you select a slab, the fabricator will take a template of your cabinets, then cut the stone to fit. If you chip or crack your granite, it should be repaired by a professional. They’re super durable and available in various designs, providing a low maintenance option both indoors and out. Quartzite countertops. The Beauty of Soapstone. Soapstone … The mineral makeup determines its color and pattern. Read our Terms & Conditions to learn more. Granite vs. Marble: Pros and Cons. Soapstone is another natural stone, usually dark gray in color with a smooth, silky feel. Cons – Very heavy and difficult to install. It doesn’t require sealing, either. © 2020 Scott McGillivray. Granite is an igneous rock that forms from the crystallization of magma beneath the Earth’s surface. There are lots of speckles and veining on granite slabs, with some more extreme than others. All Rights Reserved. Needless to say, choosing the right countertop material is critical. In this section, I will break down each pro in detail, so you know what to expect from granite countertops. This risk of fading is greater if your granite has been dyed. The Pros and Cons of Soapstone Countertops. As a result, granite countertops’ cost has decreased, and it’s become more affordable for most homeowners. By. Because it is a manufactured material and because it is so customizable, be expected to pay around $115-200 per sq. The first material which also popular among the US homeowners is Quartz. Pros – Durable, heat-resistant, and high-end commercial kitchen look. This article provides an honest white quartz countertops pros and cons breakdown. It will turn off interested buyers if they have to update the kitchen because they think the countertops are outdated. If you’re looking for something unique that will stand out in your kitchen and you enjoy the natural stone look, granite is definitely worth it. It’s not something you want to install yourself unless you have help. Both granite and marble are natural stones. Countertops not only provide a durable surface for preparing meals, eating, and entertaining, but they’re also one of the first things you see when you walk into the kitchen. Although you can find quality granite for a budget-friendly price, it can still be expensive, especially when opting for a higher-quality slab or unique colors. In the last decade, Google searches for “quartz countertops” have increased exponentially and continue to grow. Granite is an extremely heavy material. Day to day, granite doesn’t need any special care. Although there’s a lot to love about granite countertops, before you order a bunch of slabs, consider some of the disadvantages. If you get tired of the color, you'll either need to learn to live … Natural Stone Countertops. Granite and quartz are quite different materials, one being a natural stone and another being an engineered composite made to resemble the natural stone. Granite is naturally porous, so it needs to be sealed. Granite countertops need to be sealed, but most arrive pre-sealed, which lasts up to 10 years. You can find slabs in various colors, including black, white, gray, beige, gold, pink, and blue. What it is: Not to be confused with countertops labeled “quartz” – which are … 12 Pros & Cons of Quartz Countertops: Are They Worth the High Price? In fact, you can place a hot pan (up to 1200°F) directly onto a granite countertop without risk of damage. Now that you’re aware of all its characteristics, pros and cons, you’re definitely more ready to answer that question. Granite is still popular, but other materials, such as quartz, are gaining popularity due to the more modern look and the ability to customize the appearance. How Much Are Granite Countertops? Granite and marble are the most popular choices when it comes to natural stone countertops. When sealed, it becomes non-porous, so bacteria and moisture can’t harbor. Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Prudent Reviews earns fees when you click on links within our articles and make qualifying purchases. If you leave a warm mug of coffee on cold granite, it may cool down quickly. Conclusion of the Pros and Cons of Epoxy Countertops. Pros – Low price point, wide variety of colors and styles, and durable enough to withstand everyday use. All content on PrudentReviews.com is intended for informational purposes only. No portion of this site may be reused or reproduced without the written consent of the owners and distributors. One of the greatest advantages of granite is the virtually limitless amount of design options. You can even use harsh chemicals to clean the granite, allowing you to disinfect the kitchen without worrying that you’ll damage your counter. It all depends on the look you are going for. While there are several materials gaining popularity lately, granite has been one of the most sought after for the past 20 plus years. To transform granite into a countertop, engineers first use explosives to remove granite blocks from the Earth. Keep in mind, though, trends come and go, and granite has been in-style for well over twenty years. Granite can be cold to the touch, especially in winter. Since granite is sustainable, durable, and low-maintenance, it impresses buyers and can raise the selling price of your home. According to Home Advisor, the average cost of granite countertops, including labor, is $3,250. Choosing Countertops: Solid Surface. But you'll definitely want to pay attention to the drawbacks discussed here as well. Stone with a lower talc content is a bit harder and is used to make sinks, countertops and window sills. Cost: $35 to $200 per square foot, installed. Granite countertops deliver gorgeous aesthetics in kitchens and bathrooms and have other good qualities. It holds its own when compared to other popular countertop materials like quartz and granite. From there, granite slabs are cut and measured to fit into your home and countertop specifications. Granite, like any other natural stone, will fade over time, especially if it’s exposed to direct sunlight. There are several great reasons to consider applying an epoxy finish to your kitchen countertops, but the disadvantages of epoxy countertops should be seriously discussed before moving forward with your project.. Granite is incredibly versatile; you can use it for kitchen countertops, bathroom countertops, walls, floors, and much more. Each slab of granite is totally unique. They are one of the most... Scratch Resistance. The Durability of Soapstone. Granite is mined as single, large slabs that are 100% natural stone and no two sheets are alike. Deb. The edges of granite, where it’s been cut, is where it’s most likely to crack. Kitchen countertops are subject to a lot of rigorous use, and, inevitably, knives and other sharp utensils will contact the surface. On the previous article, we have reviewed about the Quartz countertop secrets and facts so please read about it to know more about the real truth. Before I discuss the pros and cons of granite countertops, it’s important to know what it is, where it comes from, and how it’s made into countertops. With a little luck you might even be able to find something that costs even less. The main advantages of granite countertops are that they’re natural, beautiful, low-maintenance, and ultra-durable. Shades: Which Window Covering Is Right for Your Home? In the case of slabs sold for countertops, there are many different minerals and stones sold as either granite or marble because they contain similar composition and characteristics. If you are replacing your countertops with granite, the remodeling process isn’t simple. Of course, if you are going for granite for a kitchen island counter, this won’t be a problem. GRANITE COUNTERTOPS PROS & CONS Granite Pros. Prices range significantly, so you’ll find a slab that works within your budget. Quartz is an engineered stone that can be customized to look like any natural or manmade material. Besides the aesthetic, quartz is gaining ground on granite due to its superior ability to resist stains. Thanks to its durability and appealing aesthetic, it’s a material you can use throughout your home, inside and out. If you’re interested in granite countertops but aren’t sure if it’s in your budget, you can get a free estimate from local contractors using this form on HomeAdvisor.com. Granite countertops last forever. Each piece of granite is unique. The Pros and Cons of Countertop Materials. Here are some other cons of granite. Jeckson - Nov 20, 2019. As with any material, the visual differences between granite and quartz are a matter of taste. The natural stone details provide a warm and luxurious look — the type of design you’d find in a Tuscan villa or French Country chateau. Bottom Line: Are Granite Countertops Worth It? But for most people, shopping for granite is the most exciting step in the kitchen remodel process. Cost: $75 to $150 per square foot, installed. Pros and Cons of Epoxy Countertops in Your Kitchen. Some people prefer the natural and unique look of granite countertops. For example, they may purchase a granite island countertop with unique veining but buy solid color quartz for the perimeter. Cost: $35 to $70 per square foot, installed. ft. Make sure that your vision aligns with all of quartz’s pros and cons before you drop thousands of dollars on her countertops. How do you know if granite is the right surface selection for yours? Mother nature never stops working. The trend nowadays leans towards bright, white, and solid colors. If you spill sauce, wine, vinegar, juice, or any other staining substance, don’t stress. When granite started gaining popularity in the 90s, it was considered a luxury material reserved for expensive mansions. And, although the risk is pretty slim, be careful with heavy objects. Disclaimer: Please note that scottmcgillivray.com participates in select affiliate advertising programs. The Pros and Cons of Porcelain Countertops. Keep in mind; you should always wipe spills within a few minutes. There are lots of helpful videos online if you need some extra guidance. Advantages of Epoxy Countertops. Granite, especially because it is a natural material, is highly attractive. The main downside of granite countertops is that the warm, natural look goes against today’s bright, sleek, and modern design trend. Comparing high-end countertops. © 2020 Prudent Reviews LLC. Be especially careful with heavy cookware such as cast iron. All other photos courtesy of Skit Inc. Free expert real estate investing & reno advice. All Rights Reserved. If you want a stain-resistant material, granite and quartz are both excellent options. There are pros and cons to using each material, so it's just a matter of deciding what’s right for your needs as well as your budget. Confused about what countertops are the best for your kitchen? It is also a material that is highly scratch and heat-resistant. In this guide, I provide a complete and unbiased breakdown of the pros and cons of granite countertops. So preparing your breakfast on a chilly morning, even indoors, might take you by surprise when you go to touch the countertop. But, if you want the most stain-resistant material, go with quartz. DIY homeowners can complete their project for as little as $3 per square foot. It will last for decades to come. I’m a big fan of wood ins, If you haven’t listened to this week’s episode. Pros – Tough, heat-resistant, and stain-resistant. Porcelain really has a lot going for it as a bathroom or kitchen countertop. Cons – Very heavy and needs to be well supported, can chip or crack if the material is too thin, and final colors can vary from samples. Soapstone counters are made from quarried stone. Doing this with another countertop can cause permanent discoloration and damage. But if the granite doesn’t come sealed, or the seal has worn away, you run the risk of the granite absorbing liquids left on its surface. Expensive Between different granite countertops pros and cons, it is probably the fact that granite can get expensive stands out the most for homeowners. Granite countertops will not melt or blister when exposed to heat. You can find very good quality slabs at your local stone yard at the bottom end of the price range. If you prefer something lighter with a more solid pattern, you might want to consider quartz or other materials. Pros – Looks luxurious and is available in a wide variety of colors. Granite countertop colors are typically grouped into 10 basic categories: beige, black, blue, … my guide to the pros and cons of quartz countertops. The cost of granite also starts at about $40 per s.f. Other options, such as plastic laminate and wooden countertops, scratch easily. Our @elfontheshelf ma, This week only! Granite is still popular and in-style but choose your design wisely — especially if you’re planning to sell your house in the future. Not only can it be practical, but it can visually break up a space. Soapstone. Your manufacturer may use a color-matched epoxy to fill the crack so that it’s unnoticeable. Sure, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming. HelloFresh is having a Black Frid, Making the walls pop! We're comparing two of the most popular natural stone countertop materials, granite and marble, to help you decide which one best fits the needs of your busy kitchen. Afterward, machines polish the surfaces. You’ll never find two completely identical granite slabs. Granite countertops are all-natural, free of synthetics, and eco-conscious. Here are the pros and cons of the most popular counter materials. Cost: $10 to $30 per square foot, installed. Create More Usable Space with Outdoor Sheds, A new episode of the #RealEstateRebel #podcast is, Guess who’s back...Kendra! We at Granite Selection have been in the business long enough to know the preferred materials for kitchen countertops. Here's how 10 materials did in the tough countertop tests. It’s heavy and can crack during the process. If you’re planning to remove granite countertops, prepare to rip up the whole kitchen. The information provided on this website is not intended to be a replacement or substitute for professional advice.Contact us: [email protected]. And, for an average-sized kitchen counter, expect to pay between $1,800 and $3,300. Here is a list of the pros and cons of this timeless material. While granite can withstand high heats, I still advise using protective covering between hot items and your countertops. Some colors of Granite can come in jumbo slab sizes for use on large island cabinetry. If you drop something heavy on your granite countertop, it can crack. So, if you plan on using granite for an outdoor kitchen countertop, make sure it’s covered. Therefore, the seams will show. Also, it would stand stain, hot pots, serrated knives, and also the abrasive pads. Choosing the best countertop option for your bathroom or kitchen is tough, particularly with kitchens. We may earn a fee if you buy via links in this post (at no extra cost to you). Cons – Can chip, and may show visible seams where pieces meet. Other materials, like wood and marble, are extremely porous, making it more difficult to sanitize. Consumer Reports tested several substances, including vegetable oil, coffee, chocolate syrup, and grape juice, on both granite and quartz. **Please note that prices can vary so use the prices below as a guideline only. The goal was to see which material resisted stains more effectively after twenty hours. The good news: granite countertops won’t scratch. You may unsubscribe at any time. It won’t absorb moisture and withstands the elements. Much like everything else in life, both quartz and granite countertops have their pros and cons. Average Cast Iron Bathtub Weight (With 15 Examples), Best Type of Roller for Painting Cabinets (Quick Guide). Similar to my last point, granite can often look quite busy. Pros & Cons of Granite Countertops Sustainability. It has versatility that granite cannot match. While some granite options are still costly, others are more affordable. The point is, with granite, you have your choice of options. If you bake a lot marble is great for rolling dough, but if you do a lot of chopping you’ll want something much harder. Some counters require regular oiling and/or sealing, while others are just wipe and go. Cons. Instead, use a mild all-purpose cleaner, granite-specific cleaner, or just water and a microfiber cloth for daily cleaning. Solid surface countertops offer a seamless look with low-maintenance style. Cost – $35 to $100 per square foot, installed. Since each stone is unique, choosing granite is an opportunity to find something special for your home; something that stands out from the crowd. Finding the right countertop for your kitchen or bathroom is more than a matter of aesthetics. What should you make of these results? Good installers can minimize the appearance of seams,  but they won’t get rid of them altogether. Are Dolomite Countertops the right choice for me?