Countertops are one of the largest surface areas in our main living areas. It’s no surprise that choosing the right countertop can be overwhelming. We want something that is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also works with our needs on budget, functionality, durability, and maintenance level. When making this tough choice, you will learn about the three most common material options: granite, quartzite, and quartz. How do we decide which material is best? What makes each of these different from the next?

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Granite: 100% Natural Stone

If you crave unique features, appreciate natural imperfections, and are willing to put in a little more maintenance work, granite countertops may be the choice for you. They have the most diverse patterns of all the materials; in fact, no two slabs are the same. These countertops are hard, durable, and heat resistant. However, extra care must be taken when working on them. Granite countertops can be damaged or chipped by high impact blows, and the porous nature of the stone can cause spills such as wine, oils, and coffee, to stain. Maintenance for granite requires daily cleaning with soap (or a mild household cleaner) and water as well as yearly resealing, which can increase the price of the countertop in the long run. Nonetheless, granite is the least expensive choice of the three.

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Quartz: Approximately 90% Ground Quartz and 10% Resins, Polymers, and Pigments

Quartz countertops are made to resemble the more natural look of granite or quartzite, without all the upkeep. If you are willing to pay a little bit more initially in exchange for low maintenance, quartz countertops are the way to go! One huge selling point of quartz is that besides from not being heat resistant, these countertops are almost indestructible! Quartz is harder and more durable than granite or quartzite, making it less susceptible to chipping. It is stainless and requires no resealing due to the non-porous surface. The only care required is to wipe spills and messes with soap and water. When using quartz, expect the look of granite or quartzite, with a higher price tag and less maintenance!

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Quartzite: 100% Natural Stone

Do you have your heart set on a natural stone, but just aren’t finding quite the look you’re wanting in granite slabs? Quartzite countertops have very similar characteristics to granite countertops. Like granite, quartzite is heat resistant, porous, stainable, and easier to damage than quartz. Quartzite countertops also require daily cleaning and resealing once or twice per year. Although quartzite is a bit more expensive than granite, perhaps the biggest difference between the two is the appearance. While granite can be found in a variety of colors, quartzite is more commonly found in lighter colors such as grays and whites (with additional colors depending on mineral content of the stone). Most people are captivated by quartzite’s glassy marble appearance which is becoming increasingly more popular!