Granite or Quartz Bathroom Countertops for Your Home?
Homeowners looking to upgrade the bathroom by installing a premium vanity surface will likely have to make the difficult choice between granite and quartz. Understanding the differences between granite and quartz is the best way to make an educated decision about what material to use for your bathroom countertop.
The price of a high-quality granite or quartz countertop is comparable to the point where it often comes down to a matter of personal preference in each unique case. There is no wrong choice because both quartz and granite offers long-lasting enjoyment and exceptional benefits.
Understanding Granite and Quartz
Granite is an ultra-premium countertop material because it is quite rare. The elegance and long-lasting beauty of granite countertops is nearly unmatched making it even more desirable. Granite is formed through intense heat and pressure in the earth’s crust. The characteristic vein patterns in the rock are caused by impurities that are present during the formation process. The problem with granite countertops is that they are made from granite slabs which are difficult to extract and are not uniform in composition. While there are a wide variety of natural granite colors and patterns available, it can be difficult to find an exact color to fit an existing décor. Granite is a naturally porous material and when it is used as a countertop, it needs to be sealed at regular intervals to provide optimal benefits.
Quartz is also an ultra-premium countertop material and it is an excellent alternative to granite in every way. Quartz is found in nature but it is not extracted in larger slabs like the granite that is used to create countertops. Quartz is known as a man-made material because it is ground up and combined with special resins at extreme heat to form useful shapes such as countertops. Fabricated quartz has a hardness rating similar to granite and it can provide a luster that many people find just as appealing as polished granite. Quartz requires less maintenance than granite because it is not porous and does not require sealants.
Since quartz is fabricated, it can be made in almost any color imaginable. For homeowners looking for a uniform appearance and color for their bathroom countertop, quartz is an excellent choice. Every piece of granite is unique and samples will have variations in color and texture from the received product. Quartz has minimal variation meaning that the option that is chosen in a showroom will be virtually identical to the received product.
Enjoying All of the Benefits of Quartz Countertops
Quartz is an excellent option for bathroom countertops because it provides a powerful barrier against moisture, liquids and bacteria. The vast number of colors available makes it very easy to match the countertop to any existing or planned décor in the bathroom.
The finished surface of a quartz countertop is very easy to clean and does not require special cleaners; soap and water will be more than enough for the majority of cleaning jobs.
To maximize the long-term enjoyment of your quartz bathroom countertop, ensure you only purchase from a trusted and reputable distributor servicing the area.