Are you thinking about remodeling your kitchen countertops and trying to decide between granite and quartz? Granite and quartz are both beautiful additions to any home, but there are distinct differences between the two materials which will affect their function in your kitchen.
This blog post will walk you through how to tell granite from quartz so that you can make an informed decision on which material is best for your needs. We’ll provide information on their physical characteristics, durability, environmental impact, upkeep requirements, costlier comparisons and more!
Granite and quartz are two of the most popular countertop materials out there, but it can be tricky to tell them apart. As you look at their varying textures, colors, and patterns, it’s important to pay attention to the details that make each material unique.
Making sure you have a good understanding of granite and quartz is vital for selecting the perfect countertop for your space. Here, we will help guide you through how to tell granite from quartz so that you can make an informed decision when picking new kitchen or bathroom countertops!
Why You May Want to Tell Granite From Quartz?
1. To Ensure You Are Getting the Material You Desire
One of the main reasons you may want to tell the difference between granite and quartz is to ensure that you are getting the material that you desire for your home. Granite and quartz can both have different colors, patterns, textures, and finishes which makes it difficult to distinguish one from another.
2. To Know What Kind of Care Your Countertop Needs
Understanding the difference between granite and quartz is also important for knowing what kind of care your countertop needs. Granite requires more maintenance than quartz, as it is a porous material that must be sealed every few years to prevent staining and damage. Quartz, on the other hand, does not need to be sealed and has little maintenance requirements.
3. To Know What Kind of Price You Should Pay
Knowing the difference between granite and quartz will also help you know what kind of price you should pay for a countertop material. Granite is generally more expensive than quartz due to its rarity, while quartz tends to be cheaper due to its abundance and ease of manufacture.
By understanding the differences between granite and quartz, you can make an informed decision when it comes to selecting the right countertop material for your home.
Knowing how to tell granite from quartz will help ensure that you get the material you desire at a price that fits within your budget. With this knowledge, you can be sure that your countertop lasts for years to come.
10 Methods of How to Tell Granite From Quartz
1. Color
Color is one of the most obvious ways to tell granite from quartz—granite is typically a more speckled stone with flecks of black, white, and sometimes colors like blue or red, while quartz usually has a solid color.
2. Granite is Usually More Durable
Quartz is generally tougher than granite, but granite tends to be more durable because it’s harder and more scratch-resistant. This makes it more suitable for countertops and other surfaces that need to be able to withstand wear and tear.
3. Heating Properties
Granite is better at retaining heat than quartz, making it a good choice for baking applications or when you want your food to stay warm longer on the table. So this is another way to tell granite from quartz.
4. Cost
Quartz is usually more expensive than granite, so this can be a good indication of which type of stone you’re looking at. If the price seems too low for quartz, it’s likely that it’s actually granite.
But you have to make sure to factor in installation and other costs when comparing prices.
5. Appearance
Granite usually has a more natural, rustic look with visible veins and speckles, while quartz tends to have a uniform appearance with less variation in color or pattern. So keep this in mind when you’re looking for the right stone for your project.
6. Weight
Granite is usually heavier than quartz, so you can use this as a way to tell the two apart if you don’t have access to any other information. This method may only work if you’re comparing stones of the same size, however.
7. Texture
Granite has a more rough and textured surface than quartz, so you can tell them apart just by feeling the stones. The texture of quartz tends to be more polished and smooth.
8. Porosity
Granite is slightly more porous than quartz, so it’s important to seal granite countertops regularly to avoid staining or discoloration. This is one of the ways to tell granite from quartz without having to rely on appearances or weight.
9. Reflection
Granite tends to be more reflective than quartz, so if you’re looking at a stone and it appears to reflect light more strongly, it’s likely granite. This will also depend on the type of quartz and the cut, however.
10. Certification
Finally, you can always look for certification labels to determine what material a stone is made from. This is especially important when purchasing expensive stones like quartzite or marble so that you know exactly what you’re getting for your money. Look for a label that should tell you what type of stone it is.
These are 10 methods of how to tell granite from quartz. Knowing these can help you choose the right stone for your project, whether it’s a countertop or something else. And remember, always consult a professional if you’re unsure of the material or need help installing it. Good luck!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Precautions Should I Take When Trying to Tell Granite From Quartz?
When trying to tell granite from quartz, it is important to take safety precautions. Since both materials are incredibly hard and resistant to scratching, you should never try to scrape or scratch either one with any type of tool or instrument.
Doing so could cause injury or damage to the material itself. Instead, it’s recommended to use a soft cloth and some warm water for cleaning purposes. Additionally, you should wear safety glasses when using any type of abrasive material on either granite or quartz in order to protect your eyes.
What Are the Most Reliable Ways to Tell Granite From Quartz?
The most reliable ways to tell granite from quartz are to look for visual cues such as color and texture. Granite is usually characterized by its speckled, flecked, or mottled appearance, with a variety of colors ranging from white to gray, pink, green, black, and more. Quartz can be found in a range of colors but is often darker than granite and has a more uniform, glossy appearance. Additionally, granite tends to have a rougher texture than quartz which can be felt if you run your hand over the surface of either material.
What Criteria Should I Consider When Choosing Between Granite and Quartz?
When choosing between granite and quartz, it is important to consider several criteria. First, consider the look and feel that you have in mind for your project. Both granite and quartz can offer a wide range of colors and textures, so be sure to choose the one that best suits your preference.
Additionally, consider factors like budget, durability, and maintenance requirements since these can vary between the two materials as well. Finally, you always take professional advice from a specialist when selecting building materials for the project. By doing so you can ensure that the material you choose is both beautiful and durable enough to last for years.
How Much Does It Cost to Install Granite or Quartz Countertops?
The cost of installing granite or quartz countertops can vary greatly depending on the size, complexity, and material chosen for the job. Generally speaking, it usually costs more to install granite than quartz due to its heavier weight and more intricate installation process.
However, both materials offer excellent durability and a luxurious look that can add value to any home. Additionally, costs can be reduced by opting for prefabricated granite or quartz countertops which can be installed much more quickly and easily than custom pieces.
Conclusion
All in all, knowing how to tell granite from quartz can make a huge difference when it comes to landscaping and home improvement projects. For example, proper identification will help you determine which type of countertop material is best for your kitchen or bathroom.
Granite may be a bit pricier than quartz, but its natural beauty and durability make it the perfect choice for surfaces that are likely to see substantial wear and tear.
Quartz is suitable for indoor use but not ideal for outdoor because it can’t withstand harsh weather conditions as well as granite can. Next time you’re considering a stone surface upgrade, arm yourself with knowledge and get acquainted with both materials before making any decisions. When properly maintained, either could bring considerable value and beauty to any setting.