When it comes to the interior of the kitchen or bathroom, there are majorly two choices – quartz and granite. Both are amongst the most popular materials for the interior of the kitchen. Quartz is known for its solid surface, scratch, and heat resistance properties. On the other hand, granite is also considered durable and rich in aesthetic value.
However, the major difference is that – granite is porous, so it can be easily stained. Therefore it requires extra care and periodic maintenance to keep the counter in its original look.
But quartz is a man-made material that combines resins and crushed quartz. So, the resulting surface is non-porous, resists stains better than granite, and requires less overall maintenance. When comparing Cambria quartz cost vs granite, they have differences in cost, which we will cover in this post.
Refer to this Caesarstone guide if you’d like to learn about the differences between solid surface and engineered quartz countertops.
Introduction to quartz and granite
Before moving forward with the differences, let us first know about quartz and granite. What do they mean, and how are they manufactured and turned into usable pieces for homes.
Quartz
Quartz is an eco-friendly material based on natural elements. About 10 percent of the material is polymeric and cement-based binders. The other 90 percent of the material is crushed granite, natural stone, and marble. Along with recycled industrial waste such as – mirrors, silica, and glass.
Quartz is a tough crystalline material that is composed of silicon dioxide. Since quartz is an artificial stone, it can be manipulated with different textures, colors, and surface finishes.
And if we talk about the measurements, the standard slab of quartz is 56 inches tall and 120 inches wide. Whereas the jumbo size slab is 64 inches tall and 131 inches wide.
Granite
Granite is another solid and porous material used for kitchen and bathroom interiors. Granite comprises quartz, feldspar, and minor amounts of amphiboles, mica, and other minerals. And this composition usually results in a pink, gray, red, and white color surface with dark-colored grains of minerals.
And again, a single granite slab is around 4-5 feet wide and 7-9 feet long. However, one can increase the measurement of the slab as per the requirements.
The cost of Cambria quartz vs granite completely depends on the slabs’ size, quality, and thickness.
What makes Cambria quartz different from granite
Cambria quartz countertops are the most popular quartz used for kitchen or bathroom counters. And unlike granite or other solid surfaces, Cambria quartz has high stain-resistance quality.
So, they usually require less care and are also appropriate for food-related materials. Another major reason to invest in Cambria quartz – it does not absorb moisture from leftovers and prevents the formation of harmful bacteria.
Even while comparing the Cambria quartz cost vs granite, quartz is more affordable and offers a variety of options for bathrooms and kitchens.
However, for a better understanding, we have come up with the comparison of Cambria quartz and granite:
Differences in basic properties
Granite is a stone that naturally occurs from a specific rock, which is further mined and cut into large-sized pieces.
Quartz is engineered but entirely made of natural materials, including minerals and resins such as – epoxy and polyester. These resins are further crushed and bound to make quartz slabs.
Difference in appearance
Although granite and quartz have similar aesthetics, people can mimic solid or natural stone appearance in their quartz countertops. Quartz countertops are available in various color or texture options, but granites are mostly textured.
Granite is mostly available in white, black, or gray tones. Therefore, granite has not much to offer, which is somewhat unsurprising. Each piece of granite with quartz minerals reflects an overlap in appearance.
At the same time, quartz surfaces have a more uniform design and colors than other stone materials, further improving simultaneously with technology.
Difference in durability
Both the materials (quartz and granite) have strong-built surfaces that can be used in the kitchen and bathrooms. But with proper care and maintenance, a granite counter can last up to a lifetime in good condition. However, white granite is subject to cracking or chipping. In addition, natural flaws make it sensitive, requiring extra care compared to regular granite.
Quartz is amongst the hardest and most durable counter materials. Even if we compare Cambria quartz cost vs granite, quartz is still the winner and offers cheap but high-quality counters.
Difference in maintenance
Both materials are appropriate for bathrooms and kitchens. In addition, they can be used for the counters, flooring, backsplashes, and even on walls. But it’s important to ensure that neither is to be used for outdoor purposes.
As granite is porous, it is vulnerable to elements that can get stuck between the pores. And it requires additional care and annual cleaning to protect the granite surface from getting stained.
Whereas quartz can fade in direct contact with the sunlight. However, both of them are easy to maintain. One can easily clean either of the surfaces with water and a dishwasher.
Bacterial resistance capability
Whether it’s granite or quartz, both surfaces are fairly hygienic and a good choice to be used as countertops. However, granite is porous, so chances are high that it might accumulate more bacteria over the period as compared to quartz. In contrast, quartz stands strongly against forming bacteria, mold, and mildew.
Radioactive emissions
Granite can have traces of naturally-occurring radioactive elements on the surface. In comparison, quartz has less possibility of contacting any such toxic radiations or gasses. However, both are safe to use and do not cause harm to the users.
The differences between quartz and granite — Conclusion
Both materials are beautiful and can uniquely enhance the kitchen or bathroom.
However, before spending the hard-earned money, it’s essential to consider the Cambria quartz vs granite cost, the purpose of the application, one’s kitchen design theme, etc.
Lastly, it’s recommended to consider the guide shared above to make an informed decision. Doing this will improve the chances of you purchasing a product that meets your needs and expectations in the long run.
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