Custom Home Finishes: Quartz vs. Granite
If you watch home design reality shows, you know that homeowners have very strong opinions about materials and finishes. We know it first-hand as custom home builders! Our clients love our build-to-suit process because they know they can have everything exactly as they want it.
Still, choosing custom home finishes can be daunting, especially for first-time homebuyers. While you may think you know what your preference is, once the process begins, you can find yourself with more questions than answers.
One example: countertops.
Choosing Your Countertops, Quartz vs. Granite
The kitchen is well-known as the “heart of the home.” Especially with open floor plans, kitchens are designed with visibility and access in mind. In addition to cooking and serving meals, people use their kitchen countertops as office space, homework space, and conversation space. So, it makes sense that choosing the right kitchen countertops is a high priority!
The choice is really one of material. The two most popular choices for kitchen counters are granite and quartz. You may also choose the same material for your bathroom countertops as well.
What is Granite?
Granite is a 100% natural hard stone, polished to a fine finish. It’s mined all over the world and highly available.
What is Quartz?
Quartz is a manufactured product made of 95% ground natural quartz and 5% polymer resins.
How to Choose Between Granite and Quartz
When choosing any custom home finishes, think about how you’ll use your home on a day to day basis. What are your preferences in terms of appearance and maintenance? This will drive a number of your decisions.
Regardless of the type of material you choose, be sure to work with your builder or a certified installer to place your countertops. They are heavy, and you want to protect your investment (not to mention yourself!)
Pros and Cons of Countertop Materials
It’s helpful to consider the tradeoffs of quartz vs. granite when making a decision. Both are high-quality. Each one is durable and beautiful.
| QUARTZ | GRANITE | |
| Cost* | Cost range: $50 to $90 per sq. ft. Average cost: $68 per sq. ft. | Cost range: $40 to $100 per sq. ft. Average cost: $58 per sq. ft. |
| Appearance | Can be customized with added colors or metallic flecks to mimic the look of granite or marble. | Each slab of granite is unique, so your counters will be one-of-a-kind. Range from light to dark, with |
| Maintenance | Resists stains. Wipe down with soap and water. Do not use abrasives. No sealant needed. | Must be regularly sealed. Wipe down with a cleaner made for natural stone. Can stain more easily as it is porous. |
| Antimicrobial | Yes. Quartz is non-porous. Bacteria, mold, and mildew can’t penetrate the surface. | No. Granite is a natural material. It can be sealed to help prevent bacteria from growing. |
| Heat Resistant | No. Can crack with sudden temperature changes or extreme heat. Not recommended for outdoor use. | Yes. A hot pad, towel, or trivet is recommended for safety. Can be used for outdoor kitchen or grill areas. |
Designing Your Custom Home
We work with all kinds of homeowners on custom home design and build in Las Cruces. If you’re considering a new home, please contact us! We’d love to hear about your vision for your home and how we can help.
