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How do you decide on granite vs quartz for a kitchen or bathroom surface counter top? There is no question that pretty kitchens and bathrooms make it easier to sell houses and having a pretty counter top is one of the ways to prettyfy these spaces. I had no idea what the differences between granite and quartz were or which one would be the best one to use, if you know the answer – you can just look at the pretty pictures in this article. If you don’t, I, with the help of the experts at WOMAG would like to assist.
Mother Nature vs Factory
The most basic difference between granite and quartz is that granite is a natural stone and that quartz base surfaces are specially manufactured. Granite is formed deep in the Earth’s crust from hot molten rock, more commonly known as magma. This magma undergoes pressure from the intense heat and rises through the Earth’s crust through the cracks and crevasses of the earth. As the boiling magma slowly cools down, it forms Granite. This granite is then quarried and cut into slabs and polished, which in turn are used as counter tops or tiles. (read more about the process here)
Quartz base surfaces on the other hand are manufactured in a factory using a mixture of high quality quartz, special adhesives, and pigments. Quartz base surface counter tops are also called engineered counter tops or man made counter tops.
Look and Feel
Because granite is a natural product, there are no two identical stones, this will offer you a natural and completely unique look for your counter top. It is advised that, should you decide on granite, you have a look at the various slabs on offer before it is cut or see a full size sample that represents what your counter will look like. Then choose the one(s) that you find most appealing. If possible, choose the slab at the factory. This is a service exclusive to WOMAG clients at the WOMAG fabrication plant. There will be plenty of colour and pattern variations that you can choose from. Important to note is that it is virtually impossible to find white or very light granite options.
Quartz base surfaces are more consistent in colour, patterns and variations. Because the factory makes them, you know that one slab will look like the other. A very popular option to achieve a modern look. However, with the growing popularity of natural stones, quartz base surface manufacturers are beginning to expand their selections by offering slabs and tiles that mimic natural stone.
While quartz base surfaces can easily be ordered by catalogue, granite cannot as it is found naturally in nature. However, WOMAG’s natural stone collection is just as varied as its quartz base surfaces. What makes WOMAG stand out from its competitors is that their buying team travels to the far corners of the earth looking for the most unique and beautiful stones, bringing back a huge range of colours and patterns.
Strength
In essence, granite and quartz base surfaces are both equals in terms of longevity. Both are resistant to staining, chipping, and cracking. Because granite is found naturally, WOMAG ensures its longevity by sealing it. While quartz base surfaces are made by humans, they already add a “sealer” to their product during the manufacturing phase.
Maintenance
Both are very easy to clean and care for. We recommend using mild soaps with warm water to wash off any spilled liquids or just cleaning in general.
Cost
The cost of granite and quartz base surfaces really depends on the slab you are looking for. There is some granite that costs less than quartz base surfaces and vice versa.
Branding
Quartz base surfaces are all branded and the top brands are all pretty much the same besides a few colour variations. The difference in the longevity of your quartz base surface is who installs it. You need to consider choosing a reputable source to install your quartz base surface as a lot goes into it. To get the best result you need to trust that they will do a good job shaping the quartz base surface correctly, ensuring that there will be limited joints and guaranteeing that the edge details (like the mitre edge) are done to perfection. Choosing a reputable company is essential.
In conclusion, the better of the two is your personal preference. One person may appreciate the natural veining and movement found in granite slabs while another prefers the consistency that comes with quartz base surfaces. Both granite and quartz base surfaces will increase the beauty of your home as well as the value. Choosing to upgrade your counter tops to a quartz base surface or granite will only benefit you in the long run.
View their range of granite and quartz options here. WOMAG will supply the stones (granite and quartz), measure and template, fabricate and install the tops. Zero hassle from start to finish.
About WOMAG
The company is one of SA’s most highly regarded suppliers of natural stone, engineered quartz surfaces, designer sanitary-ware and then tiles. WOMAG was the first company in South Africa to introduce engineered quartz surfaces with Ceasar Stone and they are also a member of the Green Building Association of South Africa.
Where you can get your hands on the products
WOMAG has three showrooms in Cape Town and one in Johannesburg, the Pretoria showroom will be opened in September 2016 (see the addresses here). Should you want to get hold of them in other regions I have provided their contact details below or you can complete the contact form on their website.
For more information or to get in contact
Web: www.womag.co.za
Facebook: WOMAG SA
Twitter: @WOMAGSA
Instagram: @WOMAG_SA
Pinterest: WOMAG
Tel: 086-11-WOMAG (96624)
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