Choosing a countertop isn’t as simple as many people think. There are a lot of factors that need to be considered, including lifestyle and usage, design preferences, and overall cost.
There’s no universal solution for every homeowner, so it‘s best that you understand what you’re getting into before you buy it.
Let’s compare some of the most common countertop materials, including granite, quartz, and porcelain.
Granite
With granite, no two slabs are exactly alike, which makes it a great choice if you want something one-of-a-kind. However, it’s porous, so it does require regular sealing to prevent stains and bacteria buildup.
Pros:
- 100% natural with unique patterns and colors.
- Highly durable and heat-resistant.
- Scratch-resistant.
Cons:
- Needs periodic sealing to prevent stains.
- Can be expensive, depending on the slab.
- Limited color and pattern consistency compared to engineered options (may not be a con to some).
Quartz
Unlike granite, quartz is an engineered option made from natural quartz crystals and resin. It has a more uniform look compared to granite and is available in many colors and patterns.
Pros:
- Non-porous/stain- and bacteria-resistant.
- No sealing or special maintenance is needed.
- Available in many colors and patterns.
- Highly durable and scratch-resistant.
Cons:
- Can discolor with prolonged heat exposure.
- Typically more expensive than some natural stones.
- Lacks the natural variation of granite.
Porcelain
Like quartz, porcelain is also a manufactured option. Porcelain is made from refined clay that’s fired at high temperatures, creating a lightweight but durable material. It can also be made in ultra-thin sizes and mimic the look of natural stone or wood.
Pros:
- Stain-resistant, heat-resistant, scratch-resistant.
- Can mimic natural stone, wood, or concrete.
- Lightweight and available in ultra-thin options.
Cons:
- Harder to source and install.
- Can be prone to chipping at its edges.
- Designs are printed, so the patterns may not run through the entire slab.
- Higher cost due to installation complexity.
Which Factors You Need to Consider
Lifestyle & Usage
How you use your kitchen will ultimately determine what type of material you use. Granite is a good choice if you love to cook because of its heat and scratch resistance, but you’ll need to commit to sealing it regularly.
Quartz is perfect for homeowners who want a low-maintenance option that’s still durable. However, you still need to be cautious with setting hot cookware on it.
Lastly, porcelain is the most versatile option, offering heat, stain, and scratch resistance with minimal maintenance requirements, but it can be prone to chipping, so it is not the best option if you’re a bit rough on your countertops.
Design Preferences
Functionality is important, but we get it—you also want to enjoy what you’re coming home to every day. If you love the idea of a one-of-a-kind, natural look, go for granite. If consistency is more your style, you may want quartz. It has more variety (in terms of available colors and patterns) than granite, but it’s not as versatile as porcelain, which is not only available in lots of colors and patterns but can also be printed to resemble natural stone, wood, or concrete.
Initial & Ongoing Costs
Obviously, your budget is an important deciding factor, too. Granite can range from moderately priced to expensive, depending on the rarity of the slab, and it requires some maintenance to prevent stains. Quartz tends to be on the higher end initially but doesn’t require any special maintenance, so it can save you money over time. Porcelain varies widely in cost based on design, but like quartz, it will be cost-effective in the long run.
Get Help Selecting the Right Material
When deciding between cost, design, and functionality, your best bet is to work with a professional like Elite Granite & Marble. We have over a decade of experience helping homeowners find the most cost-effective material that still meets their lifestyle needs and requirements. We can even customize a countertop design for you.
If you’re interested in learning more about how we can help you, contact us today to get started with a free consultation and project estimate.