When Indecisive, Choose Quartz
When building a home, there are many decisions that need to be made and much research to be done. When it comes to choosing countertops, for both kitchen and bathroom, this is no exception. Where do you start? What are your options? What are the benefits and drawbacks of each type of material? At Demlang Builders, we can help you decide.
Recently there has been debate over Quartz vs. Granite countertops. There are many differences between the two materials that go far beyond appearance and personal preference. The following guide outlines why at Demlang Builders, we typically recommend Quartz over Granite for your countertop and vanity material selection.
Cost:
During new construction, cost is always top of mind. Although costs vary, in most cases, Quartz is less expensive than exotic granite. This is particularly important for larger spaces, such as the kitchen island where smaller remnant cuts of stone aren’t an option.
Controlled Appearance:
Quartz allows the buyer to have control of the look of the countertop. Compared to granite which is a 100% solid piece of natural stone, Quartz is a mixture of 93% crushed natural stone and a 7% resin binder. The composition of quartz allows greater flexibility in the color, texture and pattern. Granite countertops may contain a die that gives it color, but this can fade over time. Quartz countertops allow thickness, shape, cut and finish to all be customized. When selecting materials for your new home, samples of quartz in the showroom are also much more reliable, as the product is manufactured. As a natural material, small samples of granite will not show the color variances, occlusions and veins in the slab that is installed in your new home.
Less Visible Seams:
Often times it isn’t possible to work with a single solid surface, and countertops must be seamed. Because of the natural veins and colors in a granite countertop, it is much more difficult to hide the seams. The seams in Quartz countertops are much more easily disguised, especially when working in a dark or solid color.
Durability and Maintenance Free:
Due to the resin binder, quartz is stronger than both granite and marble. And unlike granite and marble countertops there are no channels that need to be sealed allowing for a maintenance free countertop that is both scratch and stain resistant. While quartz is heavier, it is typically easier for fabricators to work with during the installation process.
Safer:
Unlike granite and marble, quartz countertops don’t have open channels, which reduces the chance for bacteria to grow. When evaluating your quartz options, ensure it is certified by the National Sanitation Foundation as a safe countertop. There has also been recent controversy over the radon off gassing associated with granite, this is not a concern with quartz. Quartz countertops are a Green Guard certified product.
The Demlang Design Gallery gives you a first hand look at the number of quartz options available and one of our New Construction Specialists can help you decide what look, texture, and pattern best suits the look you are trying to achieve in your new home.
