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Quartz vs. Granite: Which Is Best?

Kitchen Remodel Fort Collins

 

Quartz vs. Granite Countertops

Are you shopping for a countertop and trying to decide between quartz and granite? Both quartz and granite are good choices when it comes to beautiful and durable countertops. However, there are some differences worth noting that can help you make a more informed choice. For starters, granite tends to have a more natural look, while quartz requires lower maintenance. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at quartz and granite countertops, so you can walk away knowing the pros and cons of choosing each one for your kitchen project.

What is the Difference Between Granite and Quartz?

Granite

Granite is a 100% natural stone. It’s formed during the cooling of hot magma. The flecked pattern seen on quartz comes from mica and other trace minerals. The combination of the different minerals gives granite its unique color. Whites and creams are common granite colors, but pink and red color variations and darker colors like black are also available.

Quartz

Quartz, the second most abundant material in the earth’s crust, is created when silicon crystallizes. When we talk about quartz, we generally are discussing two different types of quartz.

  • Quartzite – a naturally occurring form of sandstone that has undergone intense heat and pressure. Quartzite countertop slabs are very common, but like other natural stones, the porous surface needs regular resealing.
  • Engineered Quartz – fabricated, unlike quartzite. It’s made by crushing rocks and then binding them together with resins. Caesarstone and Cambria are the two major manufacturers of engineered quartz.

So, which is better when it comes to your countertops? It really just depends on your goals. What we can do is break down the characteristics of granite and quartz by evaluating aesthetics, affordability, durability, and maintenance.

Appearance & Colors

Granite

Pros
Cons
  • Natural appearance
  • Found in a wide variety of colors, ranging from common off-whites to exotic blacks and greens.
  • Seams are more noticeable.
  • Can have naturally occurring imperfections, although some consider this appealing.
  • Can only be found in naturally occurring colors.

 

Quartz

Pros
Cons
  • Can come in almost any color you can imagine, from a natural marble look to bright greens and reds. White with light gray or beige highlights are most common
  • Slabs have a consistent look throughout, which reduces the appearance of seams.
  • Over time, exposure to direct sunlight can discolor the resin that binds the slab.
  • Some think it doesn’t look as ‘natural’ as other types of stone, because of the more uniform look and size of the crystals.

 

Most Natural Looking Winner: Quartz

 

Cost Comparison

Granite

  • Averages $60 per square foot. If it features unusual colors or larger sizes, the price can be increased. Smaller pieces or tiles come in at a lower price point.

Quartz

  • Averages $75 per square foot. Special edges can increase the price.

The Most Affordable: Granite

 

Maintenance 

Granite

Pros
Cons
  • Natural stone is very durable and can last a long time when properly cared for.
  • The porous stone will absorb spilled liquids if they’re not wiped up quickly, resulting in stains and bacterial growth.
  • Regular sealing every 1 to 2 years is a must to help resist absorption.

 

 

Quartz

Pros
Cons
  • The non-porous material is highly resistant to staining and bacterial growth as it will not absorb liquids.
  • Some liquids or foods with heavy dyes can stain the surface of the counter, so make sure to wipe clean right away.

 

The Easiest Maintenance Winner: Quartz

 

Installation

Granite

Pros
Cons
  • Slabs can be cut to fit precisely into the exact shape of your kitchen counter layout.
  • Professionals should be used to measure and cut because a small mistake can require re-cutting or even replacing an entire slab.
  • Extra care should be taken during the transportation of the slab and placing to avoid cracking.

 

Quartz

Pros
Cons
  • Manufacturers will shape the slab to fit your requirements. Any seams will be less noticeable.
  • Cabinets will need to be reinforced because of the heavyweight of quartz. Special equipment is needed to transport, carry, and move into place.
  • Aligning cutouts for sinks can be a challenge to get right if you choose to install yourself.

 

The Ease of Installation Winner: TIE

 

 

Durability, Hardness, & Strength

Granite

Pros
Cons
  • Chip, crack, and scratch-resistant. However, it’s not recommended using your countertop as a cutting surface.
  • Can chip if struck with hard objects.
  • Edges and corners are vulnerable to chipping. Rounded edges can help reduce this risk.

 

Quartz

Pros
Cons
  • Highly resistant to chipping and cracking.
  • Because of the resin used in the manufacturing process, it’s more flexible than natural stone, making it less prone to breaking during installation.
  • Although it’s very scratch-resistant, it’s not 100% scratch-proof.
  • Scratches that do occur may be more visible because of the uniform color.

 

The Toughness Winner: Quartz

 

Heat Resistance

Granite

Pros
Cons
  • Because it’s formed through the cooling of molten rock, granite is very heat-resistant.
  • A possibility of cracking from thermal shock exists. Always use a trivet and never place hot pots or pans directly on the surface.

 

 

Quartz

Pros
Cons
  •  Can easily take temperatures up to 150 degrees, so hot water or warm plates pose no threat.
  • Although its relatively heat-resistant, the resin used to bind the stone together can become discolored when repeatedly exposed to excessive heat. Always use a trivet or hot pad.

 

 

The Heat Resistant Winner: Quartz

 

Moisture Resistance

Granite

Pros
Cons
  • Resistant to moisture and staining when polished well and sealed with a proper sealing compound.
  • Sealant wears down over time, making the stone more susceptible to moisture.
  • Moisture absorbed by the stone can result in staining.

 

 

Quartz

Pros
Cons
  • The non-porous surface will not absorb moisture.
  • Dark-colored liquids with dyes can stain the surface if left sitting for extended periods of time.

 

 

The Moisture and Staining Resistant Winner: Quartz

 

Repair and Maintenance

Granite

Pros
Cons
  • Repairs for small chips or scratches can be done with an epoxy kit that is available at most home improvement and flooring stores.
  • Can be accomplished yourself, but for larger or multiple scratches, it’s best to hire a professional.

 

 

Quartz

Pros
Cons
  • Small nicks and cracks can be easily filled with epoxy.
  • Discoloration from heat is permanent.
  • Cracks are difficult to repair because consistent coloring makes them more visible.

 

 

The Ease of Repair  Winner: Granite

 

Environmentally Friendly

Granite

Lots of energy is used to mine and transport large pieces of natural stone. Buying locally is one way to reduce the carbon footprint.

Quartz

Made from crushed rock, the mining is easier, and there is no need to preserve large slabs. Sometimes “waste” product from other uses is the raw material for engineered quartz slabs.

 

The Green Choice Winner: Quartz

 

 

Resale Value

 

Granite

It USED to be that granite countertops were specifically sought out when buyers were looking for a home, and it USED to be that having granite in the home added resale value that was equal to 100% of the initial cost. But, alas…it seems quartz is becoming the new granite.

Quartz

Quartz is all the rage these days, and can actually be the tipping point when a buyer is making a choice between your home and another one without quartz countertop.

 

The Most Likely to Pay for Itself Winner: Quartz

 

The Winner: Quartz

Whether you’re planning an upcoming bathroom remodel or have your sights set on the kitchen, we feel quartz countertop is the way to go. In the bathroom, countertops receive a lot of moisture that can sit for prolonged periods of time. Unless you want to always be wiping up water on your bathroom countertop, stain-resistant quartz is the better choice. In kitchens, quartz yet again edges out granite as the better choice. Just like bathrooms, your kitchen countertops receive a lot of moisture, especially around the sink. Plus, quartz is more heat-resistant and has a wider variety of colors to choose from. But, if you love granite and are diligent with maintenance, it can work great for your kitchen remodel as well. Feel free to reach out to us for more information about choosing a countertop or other home remodeling topics at 970-691-6995.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Tips For Choosing The Right General Contractors In Fort Collins

General Contractor - Basement Remodeling Services

Have you decided it’s the perfect time to complete that kitchen or bath remodel? Are you looking for reliable Fort Collins General Contractor? If so, narrowing down your search can prove to be a bit challenging. Trusting the wrong contractor can end in disaster. The person may not complete the job to satisfaction, or the project might cost much more than estimated. Fortunately, there are ways to avert these types of situations.

Here are three tips to help you find your Fort Collins General Contractor

1. Get references. Even if a contractor appears trustworthy and professional, ask for a couple of references. Were these customers satisfied with the job? Did they have any complaints? Use this information to help you make a sound decision. We have a long list of happy customers who are always happy to speak to potential clients like yourself.

2. Contact the BBB. If there are unresolved complaints about the contractor, your local Better Business Bureau may have a record. Research the company to make sure you’re working with a reputable contractor. Click here to see our BBB profile: We’re “A” Rated!

3. Verify the contractor’s license. Only work with a licensed Fort Collins contractor. This ensures that he has the skills and credentials to complete your job. Contact your state’s Department of Consumer Affairs to conduct a license search. We happy to say we’re licensed in Fort Collins, Loveland, Windsor, Johnstown, and Larimer County.

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Our Fort Collins Handyman Can Help With Your Spring Checklist!

Yes, spring is just around the corner—and with our weather, there are many days when you feel that it’s already here! It’s time to tackle all those “preventive maintenance” things that are needed to keep your home in good shape. The items on this checklist can easily be handled by a one-day visit from our Fort Collins Handyman, so give us a call and let us help!

Our Fort Collins Handyman Services Include:

  • Attic – check and clean your attic’s power vents, as well as inspecting all screens for damage before birds start hunting for spring nesting spaces!
  • Exterior of the house – check for any holes in the exterior wall surface, through which animals might enter the fabric of your house. If you removed any downspout extensions for the winter, now is the time to reinstall them.
  • Decking – spring is the time to refinish your decking—providing it’s been dry for a few days—so that your deck is sealed before the sun hits summer strength.
  • Air Conditioner or Evaporative Cooler – last fall you probably were more focused on Thanksgiving than on giving thanks for this machine, but now would be a very good time to clean and prepare your machines for the summer. Take time to make sure there’s no damage to lines or insulation.
  • Outdoor structures – was there snow, ice or wind damage to any part of your outdoor living space this winter? If so, we can fix it.

So are you ready for spring, Fort Collins? We’re glad to help, so contact us today and schedule a visit from our handyman!

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The Importance Of Hiring A Licensed And Insured General Contractor: Don’t Get Burned!

Maybe you have a home remodeling project or restoration that you have been putting off. Maybe it is time to transform your kitchen into the one your wife has dreamed of for years. The Importance of Hiring a Licensed and Insured General Contractor is often overlooked. Many customers hire contractors based on low bids or offers. Do not fall into this trap!

Here are some issues to think about when hiring a contractor or Fort Collins remodeling company:

  • If an uninsured worker gets an injury working on your property you can get sued for liability and may have to pay for medical bills.
  • If the contractor is not licensed and insured then you have no recourse if you are not satisfied with the results.
  • Oftentimes uninsured and unlicensed remodeling companies cut corners that wouldn’t pass an inspection.
  • In some cities and states it is illegal to hire an unlicensed or uninsured contractor.
  • You can be responsible for paying taxes for the work done that should be paid by the contractor.
  • Many homeowners’ insurance companies will decline a claim if the work was not performed by a licensed and insured company.

There are many reasons why you should only hire a licensed and insured general contractor. At Artisan Remodeling and Repair we are fully licensed and insured in Fort Collins, Loveland, Windsor, Johnstown, and Larimer County. Plus, we’re BBB and Angie’s List  accredited with an A rating in both. We proudly offer services ranging from bathroom and kitchen remodeling to basic home repair, and we are the basement finishing professionals in the area that you can count on.

No project is too big or too small. No matter what your dreams and designs are, or even if you don’t know what you want to do with the space you have, contact us today and we will sit down with you and make your dreams become reality! You will love our project planning and we guarantee your satisfaction.

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A Quick Fix For Crooked Cupboards

Crooked cupboards driving you batty? Have no fear… the general contractor tips book “HandyManual” is here! by Paul Bilbro on 05/31/11

This is an email I recently received from a couple in Fort Collins hoping to find a solution to their annoying crooked cupboard problem:

Dear Handyman, We have a problem, and we’re hoping it has a simple fix. One of our kitchen-cabinet doors is a bit crooked, leaning slightly inward. It still opens and closes normally, but it looks bad. Any advice? Albus and Kimberly Jansen, Fort Collins, CO

 

Albus and Kimberly,

Good question. Here are a few things you can try:

• Open the crooked door and look at the hinges. Many hinges have adjustment screws. These don’t screw into the cabinets themselves but move the cabinets horizontally. If your hinges have adjustment screws, loosen the one on the crooked hinge to realign the door.

• Of course, not all hinges have adjustment screws. If yours doesn’t, unscrew the hinge from the crooked portion of the door. Put a shim (a small, flat piece of cardboard, for example) behind the hinge, then reinstall the hinge. This will turn the door slightly inward and straighten it out. If these solutions don’t work, feel free to contact me. Good luck!

The Handyman

**Is there something in YOUR house that needs a simple repair but you just don’t know where to start? Let me help! Just write in your question via email and I’ll get back to you shortly with an answer. Happy home improving! **

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