Is Quartz or Granite More Expensive?

If you’re thinking of upgrading your kitchen or bathroom countertops, stone is synonymous with a stunning first impression. But is quartz or granite more expensive when it comes to working out your budget? It’s not just about the cost per square foot. There are a number of factors to consider, from the cost of installation to maintenance. Here’s how to count the complete cost of your countertop. 

What Is the Difference Between Quartz and Granite? 

Both quartz and granite are durable, hygienic and aesthetically impressive. They lend a look of luxury to any space, yet not necessarily with a luxury price tag. 

Quartz as a mineral is found naturally in the earth, but the quartz you’ll find in a kitchen is an engineered stone. It’s created artificially from crushed natural stone, resins and colors. 

Granite is a natural stone that has to be mined, cut and polished. Although it’s abundant on the earth’s surface, each slab is unique. 

Quartz vs Granite: Which Is More Expensive?

There’s a danger of putting a price tag on a commodity whose value can rise and fall at any moment. Historically, quartz was slightly cheaper than granite in store, although its price has risen more steeply in recent years.

As of 2023, quartz is actually more expensive than granite.

That’s because the US government has imposed tariffs on lower-quality imports of quartz (and related raw materials) from India and China, ultimately driving up the cost of the finished article. 

With both quartz and granite, you can choose from budget, standard and premium options. At the lower end of the scale, you can get granite from $30 per square foot and quartz from $50 per square foot. On the other hand, if you want luxury quartz or rare granite, often sourced from Italy or Brazil, you can expect to pay $175 per square foot for granite and $200 per square foot for quartz. 

The Cost of Color

Although there are some stunning pink and light blue shades of granite, you’ll usually have a more standard color palette to choose from, and it tends to be dark gray. Quartz gives you more options since additional colors can be introduced during manufacturing. Moreover, quartz has a more dynamic appearance. It seems to change as you move around the room thanks to the reflected light. The most visibly striking quartz will command a higher price. Many of us, though, still prefer natural stone that comes from Mother Earth.

Installation Fees

Brace yourselves if the cost per square foot is already making your pulse race. There’s also the cost of installation to factor in, and it’s pricey. Heavy but delicate stone slabs need professional installation to ensure there’s adequate structural support and a sufficient seal around the seams. 

The installation cost is roughly the same for both, coming in at an average of $4,500 per counter, although it can be as low as $1,500 or as high as $12,000. 

Durability

Quartz is extremely durable. It doesn’t easily scratch, chip or stain and if anything exceptional does occur, it’s relatively easy to repair. However, quartz is vulnerable to heat and the elements, so it can only be used indoors or it will discolor, losing the quality that defines it in the first place. 

Granite is certainly heat resistant. After all, it started out as a hot molten stew of minerals under the earth’s surface, so a hot cup of coffee poses no threat. Similarly, it doesn’t stain, chip or scratch easily, and it’s tough enough to be used outdoors. The kicker is that it’s difficult and expensive to repair if damaged since each slab is unique, so finding a seamless match is a challenge. 

Maintenance Costs

Although no stone surface offers “set and forget” maintenance as such, quartz comes pretty close. Because it’s non-porous, you don’t have to worry about stains, mold, or bacteria. As long as you keep hot cups, pots and pans off the surface, it will look as good as new for years. Keep in mind though, that quartz can chip.

Granite is more high maintenance and must be sealed regularly a year to stop moisture from penetrating the stone and compromising the structure. 

Resale/Recycle Value

There’s a strong chance that you’ll recoup the cost of buying and installing your stone countertop when it comes to selling your home. Both quartz and granite are eye-catching dealmakers that can raise the profile of your property in the listings. Providing, of course, you maintain the original condition of your countertop stone of choice.  

Taking Care of Your Quartz and Granite

For both granite and quartz surfaces, you can tackle daily grime and residue with a quick application of Granite Gold Daily Cleaner spray or a rub down with Daily Cleaner Wipes. To enhancethe luster of granite or the sparkle of quartz, use our Granite Gold Polish to remove smudges, fingerprints and moisture. 

Try our Granite Gold Quartz Cleaner to gently remove grease or spills from your countertop and allow those colors to shimmer again. As we mentioned earlier, the big difference between granite and quartz is that the former needs regular sealing. That’s when you reach for Granite Gold Sealer for an uncompromising barrier between the stone beneath the surface, and the bacteria and moisture that can penetrate it. There’s a simple test: If a drop of water gradually seeps into the stone, it’s time to seal. 

Keep Your Granite and Quartz Glistening With Granite Gold®

We can only offer a ballpark estimate for the comparative cost of quartz or granite. Ultimately, the total cost will depend on where you live, the grade of stone you require, and the square footage you need to cover. Those are the variables, but one factor that will never change is the importance of maintenance. With that in mind, you’ll find Granite Gold® priceless when it comes to protecting your investment. 

To find Granite Gold® products near you, visit our Store Locator today.