Granite, Quartz, Marble or Quartzite? These are the reigning questions when it comes to choosing countertops. Granite is considered natural and more durable yet Quartz is easier to take care of and comes in a variety of colors. Marble is elegant and heat resistant while Quartzite is easy to maintain and has the appearance of marble. Heat resistant, stain-resistant, maintenance, and cost variances need to be taken into consideration during the decision process. Here are some of the differences between these materials along with some of the pros and cons to help you finalize which one is best suited for your needs.

What are they?

• Granite is a natural product that is mined in quarries around the globe. It is then cut into manageable slabs that are polished before installation. 
• Quartz is man-made using around 95% crushed quartz mixed with 5% pigment for coloration and resin as a binder. 
• Marble is also a natural element that begins as limestone and over time, with heat and pressure from the earth, hardens as the calcite crystals grow and interlock. 
• Quartzite, while similar in looks to Quartz, is a naturally occurring metamorphic rock and quarried similar to granite. It starts with sandstone that undergoes extreme heat and pressures that result in the final product.

Durability

• Because Granite is a natural stone it tends to withstand more, for example, it can withstand heat well and is somewhat scratch resistant however we do recommend a cutting board as it can be more susceptible to chips. Varying colors also have different properties as far as the strength of the stone.
• Quartz is slightly more sensitive, and it is best to use a hot pad or trivet before placing any hot items on it.
• Marble is also heat resistant like granite, making it a great choice for both kitchen and bathroom since both can be exposed to heat such as your curling iron which won’t damage it if left unattended on the counter. It is not resistant to scratches and can be more prone to staining because of its porous nature.
• Quartzite is another option for a hard work surface, you can cut your vegetables directly on a quartzite countertop without causing any damage and it is considered heat resistant. 

If taken care of properly, any of these countertops will last for a long time and provide a beautiful prep and entertainment area.

Maintenance

• If you are looking for a countertop that requires little maintenance then quartz is definitely for you. It is easy to clean and does not need to be sealed like granite. It is also easier to keep germ free because it is non-porous which means it is easy to wipe up any bacteria or virus strains that may have settled on the countertop. 
• Since granite is a more porous material, meaning that it can absorb liquids easier, this can create a life-long stain. It is always best to place dirty or wet dishes in the sink and empty any liquids there as well. We also recommend getting granite countertops sealed every few years depending on the use of harsh abrasive cleaners. You can do it yourself or have it professionally done.
• Some marble countertops do need to be sealed each year or at least every few years but this should be confirmed when purchasing your slab. Since it is more prone to stains, any spills should be wiped up immediately and cutting boards should be used to prevent any natural juices such as tomatoes, from soaking into the counter.
• Quartzite, similar to quartz, is fairly low maintenance, usually just needs warm, soapy water to wipe up any normal spills. 

Value to home

No matter which of these countertops you choose, they will immediately add value to your home. Many realtors state that having one of these countertops actually attracts a potential homebuyer. It is a sure investment in your home and will always give you a return in the future. Read more about this here.

Some other helpful tips and facts

Here are a few more things to keep in mind when making a choice between these materials and determining which one is better for you:

• Granite is more environmentally friendly since it is directly mined, polished and sold without anything added to it. It is also usually the most economical option. Slabs of granite can vary tremendously due to the movement in the granite. We recommend always selecting the granite by the slab and you can specifically decide where it will be placed in the home, for example, the island. 
• Quartz comes in a wide variety of colors since pigment can be added when it is made.
• Marble is a flexible material making it easier to get those special curves or turns in a countertop however it can be a costly option.
• Quartzite usually comes in white or gray but can have pink or red tones when iron oxide is in the stone. It is very versatile and can be used in multiple places in the home. Quartzite will be the most expensive option in most cases or comparable with marble. 

What will it be?

In the end, it is what is best for you, your home, your budget, and your style. Each option has its pros and cons meaning you can’t go wrong with any. We encourage you to visit our showroom as we have several options on display, browse our online gallery or stop by your local stone yard to view their selection. You can also also try out countertops using our online design tool. We welcome questions and will do our best to help you with the decision process so that you get exactly what you need and will love the finished project.