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When it comes to choosing a countertop material for your kitchen or bathroom, quartz vs granite is often the most debated topic. Both are known for their beauty, durability, and functionality, but when it comes to cost, which one gives you the most value for your money?
In this guide, we’ll explore the quartz vs granite cost debate in detail. We’ll compare prices, break down the factors that influence costs, and help you make an informed decision based on your budget and needs.
Table of contents
- Overview: Quartz vs Granite – Which One Wins on Price?
- Price Breakdown: Quartz vs Granite Cost
- Factors Influencing Quartz vs Granite Cost
- Long-Term Cost Considerations: Maintenance and Durability
- Sustainability and Environmental Impact
- Quartz vs Granite Cost in India: A Closer Look
- Conclusion: Which is Better for Your Budget?
- GreenFortune Windows and Doors: Add a Finishing Touch to Your Home
- FAQs
Overview: Quartz vs Granite – Which One Wins on Price?
Granite is a natural stone, while quartz is a man-made material that combines natural quartz crystals with resin. Both materials have their unique advantages, but cost is a significant factor that many homeowners consider first.
(Note: Prices are approximate and may vary based on location and specific requirements.)
Looking at the price per square foot, quartz vs granite cost is quite similar. However, the final cost can vary depending on installation, edge designs, and other customizations. Let’s dive into the details.
Price Breakdown: Quartz vs Granite Cost
Material Costs: Is Quartz Cheaper Than Granite?
The cost of both materials varies significantly based on factors such as quality, colour, and origin. Here's a more detailed look at the price ranges for quartz countertops cost and granite versus quartz cost.
- Granite: Since granite is a natural stone, its price largely depends on its rarity and origin. High-end granite can cost as much as ₹16,500 per square foot for rare colours, while lower-end granite can be as affordable as ₹3,300 per square foot.
- Quartz: Quartz, being engineered, has a more consistent price range. You can expect to pay between ₹4,100 and ₹9,900 per square foot, depending on the brand and colour. Because it’s a manufactured material, quartz prices tend to be more predictable than granite.
Example: For a typical kitchen with 50 square feet of countertop, lower-end granite may cost around ₹2,50,000 to install, whereas quartz for the same size could range from ₹2,60,000 to ₹3,25,000 depending on the specific material chosen.
Also Read: 10 Simple Kitchen Design Ideas for a Stylish and Functional Space
2. Installation Costs: Are There Any Savings?
Granite installation is often more labour-intensive, leading to higher installation costs. Granite slabs are heavy and require special handling. In contrast, quartz countertops cost for installation is generally lower since quartz slabs are lighter and more uniform, making the process simpler.
On average:
- Granite Installation Cost: ₹2,900 to ₹8,250 per sq. ft.
- Quartz Installation Cost: ₹2,500 to ₹8,250 per sq. ft.
However, these numbers can fluctuate based on the complexity of the job. If you require intricate edge designs or custom cuts for your countertop, those costs will increase.
Factors Influencing Quartz vs Granite Cost
1. Color and Pattern
Granite comes in a wide range of natural patterns and colours, from neutral tones to vibrant reds and blues. Rare colours or stones that come from distant locations tend to be more expensive.
Quartz, being man-made, offers more consistent colour options. If you want a specific, uniform appearance, quartz is the better option. While quartz countertops cost tends to be more stable across colours, high-end designer brands can raise prices for unique designs.
2. Thickness and Size
Both quartz vs granite countertops are available in various thicknesses, typically ranging from 2 cm to 3 cm. Thicker countertops not only add to the visual appeal but also increase the cost.
- Thicker granite slabs can cost 20% to 30% more due to the additional weight and labour required for installation.
- Similarly, thicker quartz slabs are more expensive, but because of their engineered nature, even thinner slabs of quartz are durable and strong.
Long-Term Cost Considerations: Maintenance and Durability
While upfront costs are a significant factor in the quartz vs granite cost debate, ongoing maintenance and durability also affect long-term value.
- Granite is porous and requires regular sealing to protect it from stains and bacteria. Sealing can cost around ₹3,000 to ₹9,000 every few years, depending on the size of your countertop.
- Quartz is non-porous, which means it doesn’t require sealing, making it virtually maintenance-free. However, excessive heat can damage quartz, so you’ll need to use trivets or hot pads.
If you prefer minimal maintenance, quartz countertops cost less over time due to their ease of care.
Also Read: How to Choose the Right Breakfast Counter Height for Your Dream Kitchen
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
Many homeowners today are concerned with the environmental impact of the materials they choose. Here's how quartz vs granite compare:
- Granite is a natural material, but the environmental cost of quarrying and transporting heavy granite slabs can be high.
- Quartz is man-made, but some brands use recycled materials and eco-friendly resins, making it a more sustainable option in some cases.
Both materials can last for decades, reducing the need for replacements and contributing to their long-term sustainability.
Quartz vs Granite Cost in India: A Closer Look
When comparing quartz vs granite costs in India, prices are slightly lower than in Western markets, but the same trends apply. In India:
- Granite costs can range from ₹200 to ₹1,200 per square foot, depending on the quality and rarity of the stone.
- Quartz costs range from ₹250 to ₹1,500 per square foot, depending on the brand and color.
The veneer vs laminate cost India debate often mirrors the international market, with granite being a bit more variable in pricing and quartz offering more consistency.
Conclusion: Which is Better for Your Budget?
When it comes to choosing between quartz vs granite, the final decision depends on your budget, design preferences, and lifestyle needs.
- If you’re after a natural, unique look and are willing to invest in regular maintenance, granite may be the way to go.
- If you prefer a low-maintenance, uniform appearance with more predictable costs, quartz is a strong contender.
Both materials offer excellent durability and can add significant value to your home. Consider factors like installation, color, and long-term maintenance when making your choice.
GreenFortune Windows and Doors: Add a Finishing Touch to Your Home
At GreenFortune, we believe that every element of your home should reflect both beauty and sustainability. Just as you carefully select the best countertops for your kitchen, choosing high-quality windows and doors is crucial for enhancing your home’s functionality and design.
Explore our range of eco-friendly windows and doors at GreenFortune here, and discover how you can bring beauty and energy efficiency to every part of your home.
FAQs
Is quartz more expensive than granite?
Answer: Quartz and granite costs are similar overall. Some quartz colors or brands are more expensive due to the manufacturing process. Granite prices vary more based on rarity and origin.
Which material is easier to maintain: quartz or granite?
Answer: Quartz is easier to maintain because it’s non-porous. It doesn’t need sealing, unlike granite. Granite requires periodic sealing to protect against stains.
Can you place hot pans directly on granite or quartz?
Answer: Granite can handle more heat than quartz. However, it’s safer to use trivets for both materials. Direct heat may damage or discolor quartz.
Which is more sustainable: quartz or granite?
Answer: Granite is natural but has a high environmental cost from quarrying. Quartz uses recycled materials in some cases. This makes certain quartz options more eco-friendly.
Is quartz heavier than granite?
Answer: Granite is typically heavier than quartz. This can affect installation costs. Both materials need strong support for installation.
