Is Granite Going Out of Style?

Granite used to be the top choice for new countertops, but quartz is seeing a surge in popularity. Since updated kitchens usually opt for quartz countertops instead of granite, is there a reason to consider granite at all? Is quartz always a better choice? 

Even though quartz is more popular right now, there are still several benefits to granite countertops. If you’re interested in this natural stone for your kitchen, read on to learn about the pros and cons of granite.

The Benefits of Granite

There’s a reason that granite countertops have been a part of kitchens for the last several decades. Granite is a naturally hardy stone that holds up well to everyday wear and tear. It’s great for busy kitchens and family homes. Granite can last several decades in good condition with the right care. 

Homeowners choose granite for its natural patterning and unique appearance. No two slabs of granite are exactly the same, which makes every kitchen one-of-a-kind. Quartz, by comparison, is engineered, which means that it’s held together by resins and polymers. Quartz has more design options and colours, but it does not have the same unique, naturally-occurring patterns as granite. 

Note that quartz is NOT heatproof, and will not hold up to things like hot pots and pans or curling irons as well as granite. If you’re the type of person who sets hot things right on the countertop in a rush, you might want to purchase a material that can hold up to the heat. Granite is the superior choice if you’re looking for a heat-proof countertop. 

Common Granite Shades and Colours

Though granite doesn’t have as much design variety as quartz, it still comes in some surprising colours. Popular granite colours include: 

• Neutral tones like beige and tan that complement a minimalist kitchen
• Shades of white, ranging from bright whites to eggshell and cream hues
• Black and dark gray, for a slate-like finish
• Various shades of blue, including turquoise — blue sometimes naturally occurs in granite as an accent colour, but you can also purchase granite slabs that are completely blue
• Gold, which can look bright and brassy or more muted, depending on your tastes

If you’re interested in using granite for your countertops, make sure to research all the beautiful colour varieties first. There’s no shortage of unique patterns and textures available when it comes to this natural stone. 

How Does the Price of Granite Compare to Quartz? 

Typically, granite is slightly more expensive than quartz. This is because granite is mined in its natural form, whereas quartz is engineered (often from waste products of other manufacturing processes). 

Quartz is the best choice for homeowners who want an affordable natural stone look for their countertops, but keep in mind that some retailers sell expensive quartz. You’ll want to be on the lookout for designs that fit into your personal budget. 

How Do You Take Care of Granite? 

All natural stone countertops require a bit of special care. No matter what type of natural stone you have, you should focus on using gentle cleaning products. For most messes, mild soap and warm water will do the trick. If you need a deeper clean, choose chemical-free natural cleaners.

Granite countertops also require re-sealing, usually once a year. When you’re shopping for your countertop, you should also make sure that it’s sealed well and that you know how often it needs to be redone. The sealant prevents the granite from staining and etching, so it’s crucial that you don’t ignore a slab that needs to be resealed. 

Quartz, by comparison, does NOT need to be resealed. Ever! This makes it an attractive option for homeowners who don’t want to worry about yearly maintenance for their countertop. It can also stand up to strong disinfectant products, making it a great choice for busy kitchens and bathrooms. If you want a natural stone countertop that’s as low-maintenance as possible, consider going with quartz. 

How Does Granite Affect Resale Value? 

Homeowners often worry about their home’s resale value when renovating their kitchens. If you’re planning to sell your home in the near future, you might want to consider choosing quartz over granite. Since quartz is more popular right now, it’s more likely to appeal to buyers who want a move-in-ready home.

If you don’t have plans to sell your home in the next few years, don’t worry too much about how your granite countertops will affect its resale value. You should focus on choosing a countertop style that you love. Plus, design trends change often, and granite countertops might be trending again by the time you decide to sell your home. 

Is Granite the Right Choice for Your Kitchen? 

If you love the unique look of raw natural stone in your kitchen (and you’re willing to take on a little extra maintenance), granite is a great, classic option for your new kitchen. Not thrilled about the extra care or the more expensive price? Look at quartz options instead. Often, you’ll be able to find a quartz countertop that mimics the look of granite for a lower price and less hassle. 

If you’re still not sure which countertop material is right for you, give us a call or stop by our Cold Lake showroom for a no-obligation design meeting. We can check out some samples and talk about your maintenance preferences to help you pick the perfect countertop material.