Comparing granite countertops to quartz is tricky, but for a lot of homeowners the bottom line is money.

Maybe you’re flipping a home or know you want to sell in a couple of years.

If you’re building a custom home, you want to make sure you choose a stone countertop that will get you the highest appraisal possible (otherwise, your construction loan might go upside down). Granite and quartz are both excellent choices, but when it comes to sheer value, granite wins.

Before you place that granite slab order, consider what’s most important to you. Is it really increased home value? Quartz trumps granite in many categories, including maintenance and durability.

Natural stone is naturally porous, but quartz is compressed in a manmade environment to make it virtually stain- and maintenance-free. Granite is also sturdy, but requires regular sealing to be stain-free.

Are They Tough Enough?

Natural stones can chip and break under extreme pressure. Think about dropping a heavy pan on the countertop (it will happen), spilling red wine on a white granite slab that hasn’t been sealed in five years, or knocking a heavy, metal dining room chair against a counter corner when moving it. In those instances, quartz is more likely to stand up to the challenge.

On the other hand, many homeowners think nothing compares to the beauty of granite. Each slab is unique, and has features reminiscent of the region where it was mined. Quartz also can be lovely, but high-end quartz requires different minerals to be added by hand to give it character. Moderately-priced quartz is often one shade, with perhaps some glitter specks.

Making the Call

Granite installation is more cost-effective than quartz, so you may save some initial investment dollars there. Still, both stones demand an investment to get them installed.

Prices can vary drastically based on availability, quality and preferences, but quartz is generally a little costlier. Prices per square foot usually don’t include raw materials and installation, so it’s wise to always ask for a cost breakdown.

Quartz has flaws engineered out in the process, but requires regular cleaning (just like any other countertop). However, if it’s value you’re mostly concerned with, granite boasts a higher resale value than quartz. Installing granite in your kitchen can up your home’s value by 25 percent, and lenders consider granite a sign that a home is high-end and worthy of an investment.

However, no upgrade can truly guarantee a higher resale value. When installing countertops solely for resale purposes, it’s often a good idea to work with a seller’s real estate agent who can help guide you with what’s in demand and popular in your area.

For all your stone countertop needs, from granite countertops to quartz or marble, contact Intermountain Stone & Marble for a free quote and to begin the slab-hunting process.

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