In terms of durability, no other natural stone flooring options can compare to quartz or granite. As the densest and hardest members of the stone tile family, both options resist scratching and staining better than any other stone alternatives—which makes them especially ideal choices for kitchens, though they are durable enough to be utilized in almost any application in the home. Both are great stone flooring options, but many customers have a hard time choosing which is the best choice for their home. Here are a few things to consider while making your decision.
What is Quartz Flooring?
Quartz flooring is an all-natural stone material comprised of a combination of quartz sand and calcium carbonate. As one of the hardest materials on Earth, quartz can be used in nearly any part of your home, and is a perfect flooring solution for spaces that receive heavy amounts of foot traffic and daily wear and tear.
What is Granite Flooring?
Granite is a variety of natural stone that is made from volcanic activity. The slow and high-pressure process of cooling magma results in granite, an igneous stone that is exceptionally strong and hard. Granite is made up of minerals such as quartz and feldspar, which contribute to its characteristic sparkle. Granite can be used in nearly any part of your home and comes in both honed, matte slabs, as well as brushed, shiny tiles.
Before shopping around for any flooring solution, it is important that you give yourself realistic expectations in terms of the benefits from the product you select. Granite and quartz are two of the best
The Benefits of Quartz
Quartz tile is so versatile that it can be used for a variety of applications all throughout the home. It is very low maintenance compared to other materials out there, making it a great investment. It is entirely man made, which means that it can be custom designed with your satisfaction in mind. Unlike natural stones, quartz will also never require any sealing or treating during its lifetime.
Quartz is a non-porous material which makes it easy to keep clean, there are no special products or treatments needed during routine cleaning, just a wet cloth and mild soap will do the trick. Its non-porous surface also means that it is stain resistant. So, when those inevitable spills do happen, liquids (and bacteria) will never be soaked up into the stone. The spill will remain there until you are able to clean it away, however we advise you wipe it up as soon as possible to minimize any potential risk.
It is known for being very durable which makes it great for any application in the home, especially flooring and walls. Quartz tiles are a great investment as they are strong and will withstand many years of heavy foot traffic without the wear and tear you might find on other hard surfaces over time.
One of the biggest decisions with any flooring choice is style. And with quartz tile it may just take you even longer! Quartz tiles come in a huge selection of colors and patterns—as well as three different finishes: matte, polished or natural. Regardless of what look you are looking for you are bound to find something that suits your space perfectly.
The Benefits of Granite
One of the greatest benefits of granite is its durability. When you install a granite floor in your home, you can know that you’re installing a floor that will last a lifetime.
It is one of the hardest natural stones, which means it withstands things like pet claws and heavy foot traffic without so much as a scratch.
Unlike Quartz, it does require sealing, but when properly cared for, granite is very resistant to moisture and can be used with very little worry in kitchens or bathrooms. It is also resistant to stains, like those from acidic foods, which is what makes it so popular as a material for countertops.
Granite’s natural beauty is one of the main reasons that people gravitate towards it as a flooring material. No two slabs of granite are quite identical, creating the potential for beautiful and diverse patterns and designs. Granite can come in either highly polished, glossy slabs, or in more muted and brushed, rustic textures and a wide range of color choices.
It is very low maintenance. Simple sweeping and occasional mopping should be sufficient to keep your floors looking gorgeous. It is an excellent investment, and is likely to increase the resale value of your home.
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