Do you want the sleek, clean look of quartz countertops? Or are you aiming at the textured, bold look of granite?
The choice may seem easy, but it depends on many factors, including style, durability, and budget. For most people, budget is the deal-breaker. If you’re on a tight budget, the more affordable option will surely win the bet.
So, is quartz more expensive than granite? The price of both granite and quartz varies depending on the type you choose.
In this article, we’ll be discussing the difference between the two materials and whether quartz is, in fact, more expensive than granite.
Which Is More Expensive: Quartz or Granite
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The price of both granite and quartz varies depending on the type you choose. Granite slabs usually cost between $35-120 per square foot. The price often depends on:
- The size of the countertops
- The style, shape, and angel of the cutouts
- How rare the granite is
While granite is quite common and easy to find, some rare types cost more than average. For example, Andromeda is one type of granite that’s extremely rare, and it costs more than most varieties. It looks strikingly similar to marble.
Quartz, on the other hand, costs around $40-85 per square foot. Like granite, the prices of quartz depend on its rarity. Calacatta Naples is just one example of expensive quartz.
You may be wondering why quartz slabs are less expensive than granite. Well, granite is a natural material. Unfortunately, this means that not all varieties are readily available, which makes it more expensive. On the other hand, quartz can be manufactured to look like its natural version, and it’s found in abundance.
By simple calculations, you may think granite is more expensive than quartz. However, the price of the slab isn’t the only cost to consider. When looking at the total price of a counter and its installation, both quartz and granite counters have very similar price ranges.
A granite counter can cost between $2,000- $4,500 including installation. Quartz counters cost around $2500 – $4000, including installation. This isn’t such a huge difference, so what bridges the gap in the price? Let’s find out.
Hidden Costs of Granite and Quartz
Now, you know how much granite and quartz slabs will cost you, but that’s not it. Many aspects may add to the cost, so it’d be good to put those into consideration. Here’s a roundup:
- Color
- Thickness
- Source
- Installation
So let’s break it down!
Color
Luckily, both of these materials come in many colors. Granite that has more natural colors (grey and black) is easier to find and therefore cheaper. On the other hand, rarer colors like Blue Bahia tend to be much more expensive.
The price of quartz is less dependent on color since it’s manufactured. However, the design of the slabs can impact the price. For example, slabs that have gold flecks will be more expensive.
Thickness
Kitchen counters have to be sturdy. To ensure that your countertops can withstand years of use, thicker slabs should be used. Most countertops tend to be at least 1-2 inches thick. Obviously, the thicker the slab, the more expensive it is.
Source
Where you purchase the granite and quartz can have a significant impact on your countertops’ quality and cost. The United States mines and produces granite and quartz, which brings down the price domestically. However, there are some cheaper options.
You can opt to import granite from China, but that’ll mean you have to settle for lower-quality granite.
If you’re looking for rare granite, you may have to import, which will add to the cost. Usually, rarer varieties of granite are imported from Italy and Brazil. Remember that aside from the higher cost of the granite itself, you’ll have to factor in shipping.
Installation
Installation is tricky because there are a lot of factors to consider, especially for granite. Buying smaller slabs of granite is usually cheaper because they’re easier to seal. That being said, this usually means there are more seams to be closed, which drives up the installation cost.
Quartz is easier to install. This is because quartz can be bought in larger slabs (50-55 feet) and installed without any seaming.
What Is the Difference Between Quartz and Granite
Putting cost aside, there are other factors to consider before deciding between the two materials. Both materials have their advantages and disadvantages.
Why Should You Use Granite
One of the main benefits of granite is that it’s incredibly versatile. It can be used for a plethora of applications, including:
- Countertops
- Fireplaces
- Floor tiles
- Sculptures
Granite is mainly made up of quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase. It’s a highly coarse-grained rock, which makes it extra durable and rigid.
Granite is also resistant to weathering, scratching, and acid erosion. All these properties make it perfect for kitchen counters.
Not to mention, it comes in a variety of different colors. These colors include white, pink, grey, and black.
Why Should You Use Quartz
Quartz is highly durable. Since it’s also non-porous, it doesn’t require any sealing and is easy to maintain.
To form a slab, the quartz minerals are ground into an aggregate and fused with resin. This process allows manufacturers to integrate pigments into the slabs, creating the colors we see.
Conclusion
In conclusion, granite is a natural material, which automatically means it’s more expensive, especially if it’s rare. It’s also more difficult and costly to install since it needs to be sealed.
On the other hand, quartz can be manufactured as a singular slab. Therefore, it doesn’t need to be seamed and sealed, making it much cheaper and easier to install. It’s worth noting, though, that specific designs can make the slabs more expensive.
Generally, granite is more expensive if you’re opting for rare colors, and it’s a hassle to install. On the other hand, quartz costs less if you manage to choose an affordable color.
Before making a decision, it’s essential to consider what exactly you want your counters to look like and how much you are willing to pay.
