Are Quartz Countertops Stronger Than Granite

Homeowners often turn to quartz as an alternative to not only granite and marble but materials such as solid surface as well.

Are quartz countertops stronger than granite.

Both granite and quartz countertops are in high demand for their strength and resilience. Both countertop materials are overwhelmingly made of natural materials but granite countertops come out slightly ahead since they are made from 100 percent stone while quartz is roughly 93 percent natural materials with the remainder comprised of color pigments and polymer resins that bond the materials together. The pros cons. While very durable they cannot be considered indestructible.

Both granite and concrete are more heat resistant than laminate countertops or even surfaces such as quartz. However if you talk to the real experts the fabricators most will be quick to tell you granite is a better choice than quartz. Quartz is non porous and does not require any sealing ever. With certain substances including beet juice and food coloring quartz fares better in this area earning a rating in this cr test that s 2 3 points higher out of 100 than granite s.

After all both come in a gorgeous selection of colors and patterns and both make an incredibly durable work surfaces. The table below displays the positive and negative qualities of quartz. Striations are grooves formed in stone from movements in the earth and although they may be invisible to us are present in cut slabs of granite. Quartz is actually harder than granite and thus more durable.

In fact quartz is nearly indestructible and because it isn t porous like granite it s easy to keep your countertops relatively bacteria free. Due to the metamorphic process the intense pressure and heat that it undergoes makes quartzite a very strong material even harder than granite. It is recommended that you always use a trivet to protect your concrete countertop. These stones offer a virtually maintenance free kitchen work surface.

Be careful with cooking pans though. How do the costs compare. While quartz can closely compare with granite and marble it is of better quality than solid surface countertops. This makes it more resistant to wear and tear than most stones and you would have to use glass to scratch its surface.

However placing a hot pot directly on a concrete countertop can damage the sealant that protects it from stains and spills. Quartz can be damaged by excessive heat so use heating pads at all times. Granite however is more susceptible to chips and cracks due to natural striations in the stone. When you re looking at which one chips easier quartz is a bit more flexible so it s the stronger of the two.