Granite vs. Quartz Countertops in Toronto: A Detailed Comparison

Kitchen and bathroom countertops are important components of each space. Toronto homeowners often narrow down their choice of material to two options, quartz and granite, when they plan for a new countertop.

While granite countertops are preferred for their elegance, uniqueness, and durability, quartz countertops are chosen for their easy maintenance. Although both are useful, you must have a thorough knowledge of each material before you make your choice.

In this post, we go into detail about the difference between these two materials.

Granite or Quartz: Which Countertop Material to Choose for Your Toronto Home

Before you buy kitchen or bathroom countertops in and around Toronto, it is important to learn about the properties of both quartz and granite. Here, we explore the differences between them:

Composition

Granite is a natural stone composed of natural quartz, mica, and feldspar that is quarried and cut into thin slabs. It is slightly brittle but can last for years when sealed correctly.

Quartz, on the other hand, is a manufactured material composed of crushed-up natural stone bonded together by plastic resins. It is a very strong material so it is a good choice for your kitchen or bathroom countertops in terms of durability.

Appearance

Whether you need soft shades or vibrant greens and blues, granite can offer a colour scheme that looks perfect in your kitchen. Every granite slab is unique, so you will not find a similar countertop. Its veining, which is a result of the stone’s different mineral content, creates a dramatic flow in the design.

Being a manufactured material, quartz is more consistent in colour, so you will find the selection procedure easier. You can find it in various colours, such as white, green, brown, black, red, and green. Countertops made of quartz are engineered products and can mimic granite as well as marble.

Cost

Although both granite and quartz are premium materials, quartz countertops cost much less than granite ones. This is because quartz is manmade, so the price is determined by the manufacturer based on factors like edging details, the number of cutouts, and the area to be covered. Granite countertops are made of natural stone, and their cost depends on the quality and rarity of the particular slab you select.

Environmental Effects

The process of quarrying granite impacts the environment through soil erosion and deforestation. Quartz is engineered stones from quartz chips mixed with resins. Quartz is an abundant material, and its mining causes less impact on the environment than other stone mining operations.

Maintenance

Maintenance is essential to keep your countertop in pristine condition, no matter the material you choose. But some materials are easier to clean and maintain than others.

Granite is a porous stone, so granite countertops need to be sealed once or twice a year, preferably with a granite sealer. They also need daily cleaning with mild soap and water. Harsh chemical cleaners or abrasive scrub pads can degrade the granite’s quality. Instead, use granite cleaner to gently remove stains.

The use of resins in the fabrication of quartz slabs eliminates porousness and, hence, the need for sealing. It also makes them more resistant to stains and bacterial growth. Clean your quartz countertop with a mild degreaser and a soft cloth.

Installation

Both quartz and granite are extremely heavy and tough, so both kinds of countertops must be professionally fabricated and installed. Visit MaxSpace Stone Works’ renowned Toronto-area showroom to check out our slabs, pick the material that best suits your needs, and arrange for expert fabrication and installation.

 
Both granite and quartz are leading options for kitchen and bathroom countertops in the Toronto area. Their distinct features and advantages have made them an important investment for many homeowners. If you want to explore the qualities of each, contact MaxSpace Stone Works. We can arrange to have you view both types of slabs and discuss which works best for you. Visit us to select a high-quality countertop at competitive prices.