Quartz VS. Granite VS. Porcelain: Which Countertop is Best?
Choosing the right materials for your home improvement project is so important. The various elements of your home can last you many years to come, which is why it’s imperative that you consider the different options that are available to you. This includes, but is not limited to, the countertops throughout your home.
At Stone On The Go, we’re proud to carry a wide selection of quality stone products, perfect for your custom countertops, fireplaces, hood wraps, and more! To learn about the pros and cons of quartz, granite and porcelain, read on! We’ll help you discover the best option for your home, budget and lifestyle!
Quartz Countertops
About Quartz Countertops
If you’re looking for a countertop that is both stylish and versatile, quartz may be the right choice for you. Most homeowners agree that their quartz countertops serve them functionally, but also act as a focal point for their living space.
Quartz countertops are often regarded as being man-made, but this isn’t completely true. Quartz is the main component of these countertops, which is a natural mineral, but the countertops themselves are engineered by humans.
The quartz is first ground into a dust, which is then used to manufacture the countertops by being combined with other materials, both natural and synthetic. These materials can include resins, polymers and pigments.
In the end, the natural quartz makes up roughly 90% of the product, while the other materials account for the remaining 10%. With quartz it’s also important to note that many colours and styles are available to you, meaning that you won’t be as limited in the range of choices as you are with some other options, such as granite.
The Pros
Durable
Versatile
Appearance
Low-Maintenance
Selection
Non-Porous
Resistant to Stains
The Cons
Higher Price Points
Not Always a Natural Appearance
Not Heat Resistant
Not DIY Friendly (Hire an Expert!)
Recommended Only for Indoor Use
Our Verdict
Quartz countertops can prove to be a wonderful addition to many homes and lifestyles. We suggest opting for quartz if you are looking for a unique piece that can be customized to fit the appearance of your kitchen, bathroom or living space, with the ability to stand up against high-traffic and heavy use.
There are some limitations with quartz countertops, such as they do tend to cost more than some alternatives, can only be used indoors and exposure to heat, such as from a dish, pot or hair heat tools, should be avoided.
Granite Countertops
About Granite Countertops
If you’re looking for a heavy-duty countertop that can withstand the wear and tear of a busy lifestyle, we recommend looking closer at the granite options available to you. Not only is granite a tough and durable option, but it has also gained popularity for being low maintenance.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly option for your kitchen or bathroom, granite is worth looking into.
The Pros
Resistant to Heat, Chemicals and Scratches
Low-Maintenance Option
Sustainable Manufacturing Process
More Affordable Option Than Alternatives
Natural Aesthetic
Stain Resistant
Natural Material
The Cons
Most Kitchen Installs Require 2-3 Seams
Repairs Must Be Handled by a Professional
Must Be Sealed to Protect Against Moisture
Limited Colours and Patterns
Our Verdict
While you are limited to the colours and styles of mother nature, there are still many beautiful granite options to shop from that can complete your living space. With low and high price ranges to shop from, finding the right granite countertop for your family-friendly lifestyle is generally a simple and enjoyable process.
Porcelain Countertops
About Porcelain Countertops
While porcelain countertops are a less traditional option, they have gained popularity in recent years - with interest only growing! The strength and durability of porcelain comes from quality materials utilized in the manufacturing process, including China clay, kaolinite, silica, feldspar, and other mineral oxides.
To increase the versatility of porcelain countertops, pigments can be added during the manufacturing process to create different colours and patterns.
The Pros
Versatility with Different Colours and Patterns
Extremely Strong and Durable Materials
Resistant to Heat, Stains, Chemicals, and Scratches
Hard and Durable for a Lasting Experience
Ideal for Outdoor Kitchens with Resistance to UV Light
Often No Need to Seal
Affordable Prices Ranges (Similar to Granite)
The Cons
Not Scratch-Resistant to Ceramic Knives
Less Common Option, Often with Limited Availability
Chips and Flaws Are Often Noticeable and Difficult to Repair
Our Verdict
Porcelain is a great option for many homes and lifestyles. This durable option can stand up against the busiest of kitchens, bathrooms and living spaces, but should still be handled with care and consideration. With price ranges that are similar to that of granite, you are able to enjoy many of the same benefits but with the added versatility of more colours and patterns to choose from.
Please keep in mind that patterns are only visible from the surface, so if your countertop were to chip, it may be noticeable and sometimes difficult to repair. Porcelain is also a less common option for countertops, so it may take a little longer to find the right slab and countertop installer.
Which Countertops are Best for Your Home?
While all our quality stone products do have their pros and cons, we believe that not one is better than another. At the end of the day, it comes down to which option is best for your home, budget and overall lifestyle.
As you shop for stone countertops, fireplaces and even hood wraps, ask yourself the following 5 questions to determine which one is best for you:
What is My Budget?
Is My Kitchen or Bathroom a High-Traffic Area?
Do I have Time for Maintenance and Preventative Care?
What is the Overall Aesthetic of My Home?
Which Style of Countertop Do I Like Best?
For help getting started or more information, contact our team of quality stone experts at Stone On The Go today.
Quality Stone Countertops for Sale in Hamilton
Once you’ve chosen the best countertops for your home, it’s time to start shopping. For an unbeatable selection of quality stone countertops, with a variety of kinds and price ranges, visit Stone on the Go today. Located at 1170 Rymal Road East, we’re proud to supply a wide selection of quality stone countertops for sale in Hamilton and surrounding areas, from Ancaster to Toronto and everywhere in between.
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