Both granite and quartz offer distinct advantages, but understanding their differences can help in making an informed decision, especially when it comes to the commercial kitchen countertop. Choosing the wrong one can lead to significant operational challenges. Issues such as surface degradation, hygiene concerns, and increased maintenance can disrupt workflow and incur additional costs.
But how to decide which one is right for you? Don’t worry, we are here to help! In this blog, we will get into a detailed comparison of Granite vs Quartz to determine which material is better suited for commercial-level applications.
Understanding Granite and Quartz
What Is Granite?
Granite is a natural, coarse-grained igneous rock formed from the slow crystallization of magma beneath the Earth’s surface. Its primary components include quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase feldspar, with minor amounts of mica and amphibole minerals.
Mineral Content: Typically comprises:
- Quartz (20–60%)
- Alkali feldspar (35–90%)
- Plagioclase feldspar (10–65%)
- Minor minerals like biotite and hornblende
Formation and Composition:
Origin: Granite originates from silica-rich magmas that cool slowly underground, allowing large crystals to form.
What Is Quartz?
Quartz kitchen work surfaces, on the other hand, are engineered stone. They are made from approximately 90-95% crushed quartz (a naturally occurring mineral) combined with resin binders and pigments to create a durable, uniform slab.
Composition:
- Quartz Content: Approximately 90–95% crushed natural quartz.
- Resins and Polymers: About 5–10% polymer resins (such as polyester or epoxy) act as binders.
- Pigments: Added to achieve a wide range of colors and patterns.
- Additives: Quartz kitchen countertops may incorporate recycled materials, such as glass or metallic flecks, for added aesthetic appeal.
Manufacturing Process:
- Crushing and Mixing: Natural quartz is crushed into granules and mixed with resins, pigments, and additives to form a uniform mixture.
- Molding: The mixture is poured into molds to form slabs of desired sizes.
- Vibrocompression: Slabs are compacted under vacuum and vibration to eliminate air pockets and ensure density.
- Curing: The compacted slabs are cured at temperatures around 185°F (85°C) to harden the resin and bind the materials.
- Finishing: Cured slabs are polished to achieve the desired surface finish, such as glossy, matte, or textured, making them ideal for quartz kitchen countertops.
Which One Is Better and Why?
| Feature | Granite | Quartz |
| Material Composition | Natural stone is composed primarily of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Each slab is unique due to natural variations. | Engineered stone is made from approximately 90–95% crushed natural quartz combined with resin binders and pigments, resulting in a uniform appearance. |
| Heat Resistance | Excellent heat resistance; can withstand temperatures up to 1200°F (649°C), allowing hot pots and pans to be placed directly on the surface without damage. | Moderate heat resistance; resins can be sensitive to high temperatures, withstanding up to 150°F (65°C). Placing hot cookware directly may cause discoloration or cracking. |
| Scratch Resistance | High resistance to scratches due to its hardness; however, it may chip or crack upon significant impact, especially at edges or corners. | Very high resistance to scratches and less prone to chipping compared to granite, owing to its engineered uniformity. |
| Porosity | Porous material; requires periodic sealing (typically once a year) to prevent staining and bacterial absorption. | Non-porous surface due to resin composition, making it highly resistant to stains and bacterial growth without the need for sealing. |
| Maintenance | Requires regular maintenance, including sealing and specific cleaning agents to avoid damaging the sealant. | Low maintenance; does not require sealing and can be cleaned easily with mild soap and water. |
| Cleaning and Hygiene | Requires specific cleaning agents to avoid damaging the sealant; regular cleaning is essential to maintain appearance and prevent bacterial buildup. | Non-porous surface allows for easy cleaning with mild soap and water, reducing the risk of bacterial contamination. |
| Appearance | Offers unique, natural patterns and colors; each slab is one-of-a-kind, appealing to those who appreciate natural beauty. | Provides a broad range of color choices with consistent, uniform patterns, suitable for minimalist designs. |
| UV Resistance | Resistant to UV rays; suitable for outdoor use without significant fading. | Can fade or discolor over time when exposed to direct sunlight; not recommended for outdoor use. |
| Cost | Generally more cost-effective; prices range from $50 to $200 per square foot, depending on color and pattern. | Slightly more expensive; prices typically range from $70 to $100 per square foot. |
| Environmental Impact | Quarrying and transportation can have a higher environmental impact; sourcing locally can mitigate this. | Often made from waste, crushed minerals, and can be more environmentally friendly due to the ability to be locally sourced. |
Which Should Your Business Choose?
- Choose granite if your commercial environment involves frequent exposure to high temperatures, such as commercial kitchens, restaurants, or food prep areas where hot cookware or equipment is placed directly on countertops. Its superior heat resistance ensures durability and safety under these demanding conditions, making it a reliable choice for hospitality and food service businesses.
- Opt for quartz kitchen countertops if your priority is a low-maintenance, hygienic surface that resists stains and scratches, ideal for healthcare facilities, retail stores, office breakrooms, or any commercial setting where cleanliness and ease of upkeep are paramount.
After considering all the specifications considerations when selecting commercial kitchen worktops, the choice between granite and quartz should be guided by the specific demands of your commercial setting, balancing factors like heat exposure, maintenance capabilities, and hygiene requirements.
Conclusion
If you’re still unsure between Granite vs Quartz, reach out to the material experts at Granite Supply. Our team carefully considers your kitchen’s traffic, functionality, and budget to recommend the best option. We offer a wide range of high-quality granite, quartz, and marble worktops designed for commercial use.
Reach out to us for expert advice and to explore our premium products. Let us help you find the perfect work surface for your commercial needs.
