The Pros and Cons of Granite vs Quartzite Countertops

Granite and quartzite countertops are two of the most popular natural stone options for kitchens today. Both offer beauty, durability, and an upscale look. However, there are some key differences between granite and quartzite that impact their pros, cons, costs, and ideal uses.

In this comprehensive comparison, we'll look at the unique advantages and disadvantages of granite and quartzite countertops to help you make the best choice for your home.

What is Granite?

Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma or lava as it cools and hardens. It consists primarily of quartz and feldspar minerals. Granite forms deep in the earth's crust and is mined from quarries in large blocks, which are then cut into slabs.

Granite's mineral composition gives it its hardness, making it scratch and heat resistant. It also results in the unique colors, patterns, and textures found in granite countertops. While no two granite slabs are exactly alike, some popular granite colors include black, white, gray, red, brown, pink, blue, and green.

Pros of Granite Countertops

Here are some of the benefits that make granite a top choice for many homeowners:

• Durability and longevity - Granite is very hard and stands up well to heavy usage in kitchens.
• Resists heat - Granite won't burn or scorch from hot pans or pots.
• Easy maintenance - Granite requires very little daily or routine care beyond cleaning.
• Unique aesthetics - No two granite slabs have the same natural pattern, providing distinctive looks.
• Large slab sizes available - Granite comes in slabs ranging from smaller cuts to very large pieces.
• Adds value - Granite countertops increase a home's resale value and appeal.

Cons of Granite Countertops

There are also some potential drawbacks to weigh with granite:

• Sealing required - Being porous, granite needs to be sealed every 1-2 years to prevent staining.
• Can stain - Acids like wine, juice, or vinegar can etch light granites.
• Some chipping - While very durable, granite can chip if subjected to heavy impacts.
• Heavy weight - Large granite slabs require strong cabinetry support.
• Higher cost - Granite is more expensive than laminate or solid surface countertops.

What is Quartzite?

Quartzite begins as quartz sandstone, which forms from consolidated sand grains. Over time, heat and pressure metamorphize the sandstone into quartzite. Quartzite contains at least 90% quartz mineral crystals fused together.

Mined quartzite is cut into slabs to create countertops. It is available in a variety of neutral tones like white, gray, cream, and tan, sometimes with subtle mineral patterns. The composition makes quartzite very hard and durable.

Pros of Quartzite Countertops

Quartzite offers the following advantages over many other countertop materials:

• Very durable - Quartzite has incredible hardness and strength, making it one of the most durable options.
• Heat resistance - Quartzite can withstand hot pans straight from the oven or stove.
• Lower maintenance - Its non-porous nature means quartzite rarely needs sealing.
• Resists scratching - Quartzite's hardness also makes it very scratch resistant.
• Non-porous - With very low porosity, quartzite does not harbor bacteria or germs.
• Unique aesthetics - Natural mineral deposits create distinctive patterns.

Cons of Quartzite Countertops

There are a few potential negatives of quartzite that are worth considering:

• Expense - Natural quartzite is pricier than granite or engineered quartz countertops.
• Can stain - Not totally stain-proof, acidic liquids or oils may stain quartzite.
• Sealing occasional needed - Though less porous, sealing every 3-5 years helps protect quartzite.
• Chipping - Brittleness can lead to chipped edges, especially during installation.
• Limited colors - Quartzite is often found in lighter whites, grays, tans, and creams.

Cost Comparison

Both granite and quartzite are premium natural stone countertop materials that command higher prices than manufactured alternatives like laminate, tile, or solid surface countertops. Here's how granite and quartzite pricing stacks up:

• Granite countertops installed typically range from $60-$150 per square foot.
• Quartzite countertops often start around $100 per square foot installed.
• More exotic granite and quartzite varieties can cost $200+ per square foot installed.
• The total price depends on slab cost, installation fees, countertop size, and other factors.

While quartzite is generally more expensive upfront, both countertop materials offer good long-term value and return on investment.

Appearance

When it comes to aesthetics, granite and quartzite offer different visual styles:

• Granite comes in a broader range of colors from neutrals to bold hues with veining, spots, and movement.
• Quartzite appears in soft, lighter solid colors like white, cream, gray, or tan that pair well with many kitchen designs.
• Over time, both stones develop a patina but still maintain their essential look and structure.
• Granite and quartzite can be polished to different finishes from a smoother sheen to a lightly textured honed look.

Choosing between the two comes down to whether you prefer granite's bolder colors and patterns or quartzite's more subtle, neutral palette.

Maintenance

In terms of upkeep, granite and quartzite are fairly comparable:

• Granite requires sealing every 1-2 years to prevent stains and etching from acidic liquids.
• Quartzite only needs sealing every 3-5 years since it's less porous than granite.
• Both stones can be easily cleaned with soap and water for routine maintenance.
• Annual application of stone sealers enhances protection for heavy use kitchen countertops.
• Neither material is maintenance-free, but upkeep is reasonable for the added beauty and value.

Health Factors

For sanitation in food prep areas, quartzite offers some advantages over granite:

• Quartzite is non-porous so does not allow germs and bacteria to penetrate the surface.
• Granite can harbor some bacteria in the tiny pores of more porous varieties.
• With proper sealing and cleaning, granite is still hygienic for countertops.
• Neither material emits any VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
• Overall, both granite and quartzite provide safe, sanitary, and non-toxic surfaces.

As natural stones, both granite and quartzite offer eco-friendly benefits:

• They are abundant natural resources that don't deplete limited raw materials.
• Very durable for long lifespans, avoiding replacement and landfill waste.
• Can be crushed and recycled at end of life rather than landfilled.
• Mining and manufacturing have relatively low carbon footprints.
• Neither material off-gasses toxins, unlike some engineered surfaces.