San Diego Union-Tribune (Sunday)
Granite vs. quartz countertops
Two in every five homeowners choose quartz or granite when replacing their countertops. If you’re one of those two, here’s a quick guide to help you decide which is right for your home.
Pros of Granite
Granite has withstood the test of time and proved itself universally appealing. Although it comes in all shapes and sizes, it is common to find slabs of wider than 70 inches, while quartz slabs are usually sold closer to 56”. This results in fewer seams. Kitchens that only need one slab can help cut costs. Since granite doesn’t come from a factory, it comes with all kinds of design elements a man-made product like quartz can never have, most notably, unique patterns and textures right out of nature. Every slab is one-of-a-kind, which really adds that personalized touch to your kitchen.
Pros of Quartz
Quartz is incredibly low-maintenance. Unlike granite and other natural stones, it is non-porous and can handle most detergents—most spills and stains can be removed with just soap and water. It also doesn’t require sealing. Quartz isn’t totally immune to scuffs and stains, but it’s stronger than natural stone, so it’s about as scratch-resistant as they come. The strong bonds formed between the resins and polymers during the manufacturing process aren’t easy to break, meaning there is a much smaller risk of cracking during installation. Those who don’t like the busier patterns of granite will enjoy the consistent, clean styles of quartz. It’s a natural fit in modern and contemporary spaces that emphasize form and function over details. It is also perfect for traditional spaces that need a clean counter top style to tie all the other more detailed features, together. Whichever counter top you choose, Coles Kitchen and Bath Design Center can have you covered with all the products you’ll need for your remodel. Call today. San Diego (800) 923-4919 North County (800) 794-1001