Granite or quartz: Make an informed choice

The competition is neck and neck right between granite and quartz, two of the most popular high-end materials for countertops.

Which one would best suit your kitchen or bath? See how each stacks up in five important categories and make an informed decision.

Appearance

Granite is a natural stone, quarried from the earth and then cut into large slabs. Each slab has a unique pattern of variations in color and markings, including what might be considered flaws.

Some homeowners consider this unpredictability and uniqueness part of granite’s charm; others are looking for a more consistent appearance. Granite comes in a number of background colors, which comprise black, white and a variety of earth tones.

Although quartz is composed of 93 percent natural stone, mixed with resins, its markings are regular. It’s unnecessary to order your quartz countertop by viewing several slabs of material; choosing from a book of samples is sufficient. A wide range of colors and shades is available, including faux granite and striking shades of blue, green, orange or magenta that have no resemblance to natural stone.

Cost

Generally, granite is considered to be a luxury option. When it comes to countertops, though, granite is actually slightly cheaper than quartz at midrange. It’s only when you start looking at top-of-the-line materials that granite costs appreciably more.

Care

Although it offers admirable heat resistance, granite requires delicate handling so it doesn’t scratch, stain or etch. Have it sealed yearly to keep its highly porous surface from soaking up oily or dark-colored spills and harboring dangerous bacteria.

Beware of acids, such as wine or lemon juice, and don’t be tempted to use today’s most popular natural cleaning agent, white vinegar, on your granite countertops — it will leave permanent marks. Instead, wipe down regularly with a soft cloth dipped in hot water and a mild cleanser such as your everyday dish soap. Avoid harsh chemicals such as bleach or ammonia, as well as abrasive cleaning pads. Granite may be disinfected with a mixture of half water and half isopropyl alcohol, although sealing makes this really unnecessary.

Quartz is nonporous and therefore needs no sealing or waxing. This material is hygienic and resistant to staining, scratching and acids.

All you need for cleanup is soap and hot water. However, it may discolor when exposed to strong sunlight. If burned by hot pots (use a trivet!) or chipped, quartz will require repair by a professional handyman.

Effect on Air Quality

In 2008, the EPA raised concerns about the dangers of granite countertops. Some granite contains uranium or other radioactive elements, which can lead to the emission of radon gas, especially from the pink, purple and red varieties (black is the safest color).

Have the supplier test the granite slab you’d like to use, or check it out yourself with a radon testing kit from the hardware store.

(While you’re at it, test for radon in your basement or crawl space, too, since this area is where the gas is likeliest to be found in your home.)

Quartz does not off-gas or negatively affect interior or exterior air quality in any way.

Curb Appeal

When it comes to putting your house on the market, granite adds an extra “wow” factor. If your home has granite countertops in the kitchen or bathroom, that fact will always be highlighted in your real estate broker’s property description.

However, some buyers may be leery of the radon danger. If you have had the granite tested, make the results available.

While quartz doesn’t tend to make the same strongly positive impression on potential buyers, it is certainly not a negative.

Seller beware, though: Do not install quartz countertops in bright, bold and dramatic colors unless you plan on staying in your home for many years. Otherwise, as with other decorating features, counters in classic neutrals are the best bet for increasing your curb appeal.