Choosing the right kitchen countertop can be difficult due to the large number of factors at play. Is the countertop going to be inside or outside? How do you want it to look? Is your heart set on a certain material?
Amongst all these factors, you may also want to consider the eco-friendliness of your kitchen countertop. The eco-friendliness of the countertop will vary based on the material used, as well as how you take care of it. Below, you’ll learn how you can protect the environment by choosing the right kitchen countertop and cleaning it appropriately.
Which is Eco-friendlier: Granite or Quartz?
There’s an argument to be made that both granite and quartz are eco-friendly. After all, they can last for decades. That durability means the resources used in the creation of your countertop don’t go to waste. As well, the materials used for each of these countertops can be recycled, which further increases their eco-friendliness.
That said, if you’re making a straight comparison between the two, quartz is eco-friendlier than granite.
This can be explained by how they’re made: granite is a natural stone. This means it has to be taken from a quarry, which is a resource-intensive process. Quartz, on the other hand, is by its very nature recycled: quartz is made from various bits of other stones. This means that leftover pieces of stones which otherwise might not be used can be used to create your kitchen counter.
How Can You Take Care of Your Countertop?
Some of the materials used to clean countertops can be damaging to the environment. These are often caustic, harmful chemicals, which damage the countertop as well as the environment.
Granite and quartz both require eco-friendly cleaning materials. Because caustic, artificial cleaners can wear away at the stone, you usually don’t need much more than water, soap, and a rag.
When maintaining granite, remember this: you want to make sure it’s been properly sealed. Granite is a porous stone, so if it isn’t sealed, it’s going to absorb liquid. Quartz is not a porous stone, which means it doesn’t need to be sealed.
Either way, if you’re properly maintaining your countertop, you’re maintaining it in an eco-friendly way.
Looking for Quartz or Granite Countertops in Michigan?
At CIT Granite, we believe in finding the countertop that’s right for you. Along with helping you find the slab that’s right for your room, we’re also expert installers. While some companies stick specifically to kitchen countertops, we understand that granite and quartz can be used outside, in the bathroom, and in other areas of your home. Just let us know what project you want to do, and our experts will be able to let you know how quartz or granite can enliven your home.
On our website, you can also learn more about how to take care of granite or quartz. If you’re interested in getting a granite or quartz countertop, or you simply want to learn more about the services we provide, don’t hesitate to contact us at 734-941-2323.