We have put together the answers to our most frequently asked questions in one convenient location.
Here at Granite of the Smokies, we receive many questions about our granite and quartz countertops, such as what the difference between them is, how to care for them, and more. To save you some time, we have assembled the answers to these questions on one convenient page, and we encourage you to check it out below.
What’s the difference between quartz and granite?
Granite is a natural stone, which is cut out of the earth. It comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns, but those options are limited to what natural forces can create. Quartz, on the other hand, is a man-made material. It is made of a combination of crushed quartz crystal, pigments, and resin to hold it all together. The difference in where each material comes from also creates differences in how each one behaves—for example, granite is naturally porous and needs to be sealed, while quartz does not. On the flip side, the resins in quartz mean that it’s not heat resistant, while granite is.
What is the cost difference between quartz and natural stone?
While there are some varieties of granite that are cheaper than quartz, for the most part, quartz is the more affordable option. The price of quartz generally ranges from $70 to $100 per square foot, while the price of granite ranges from as low as $60 per square foot to as high as $270.
What should I do to maintain my new countertops?
To maintain a granite countertop, you should wipe it down with a clean cloth every day, using just water or a mild soap to remove any residues. If your counter requires a more thorough cleaning, make sure to use a cleaner with a neutral pH, and never use harsh chemicals or anything abrasive, as that can damage the surface. In addition, you should get your granite counters re-sealed every three years or so. Caring for quartz countertops is even easier—follow the same rules for cleaning granite countertops, and don’t worry about getting them re-sealed, as the resin content creates a permanent seal.
What’s safe to use for cleaning granite or quartz countertops?
When cleaning your granite or quartz countertops, stick to mild soaps, or use cleaners that have been especially formulated for use on these materials—if a product has the word “granite” in the name, it’s safe to use on your counters. Any cleaning product you use should be pH-neutral and non-abrasive, so avoid anything that is acidic (such as vinegar) or basic (such as bleach) or that contains grit of any kind.