Deciding between granite or quartz countertops is oftentimes a tough decision for new home buyers. At LifeStyle Homes, we allow each of our customers the choice between these two surfaces for their kitchens and baths. And because both granite and quartz are extremely durable, easy-to-maintain, and abundantly attractive, our customers often ask: Which is better?

We usually explain that this decision is largely a matter of opinion.

That said, there are distinct differences between the two. And some of these distinctions may be of importance to you, which can ultimately help you decide which surface you’d prefer for your own home.

• Granite: Perhaps the biggest dissimilarity between granite and quartz is the way in which the surface is formed. Granite is a natural stone that is quarried from the earth. That said, it retains a timeless beauty that can only come from a Mother Earth-sourced material. As such, generally speaking, no two slabs of granite appear exactly the same. Home buyers who adore the uniqueness and natural variations of granite will consider this a positive, while others who aim for a uniform aesthetic will view this as a negative. Some people consider quartz to be slightly stronger and more resistant to chips and cracks, but granite is certainly no slouch. If installed and sealed properly, it should last a lifetime.

• Quartz: In recent years, quartz manufacturers, like Cambria® (LifeStyle’s supplier), have released some truly stunning selections. Quartz countertops come in a wide variety of colors, styles and inflections, and oftentimes closely mimic the look of natural stone. Quartz is man-made, so home buyers sometimes prefer quartz over granite due to its consistency. And while quartz can fade if left in direct sunlight over an extended period of time, many argue it’s more resilient to damaging, as well as easier to maintain because it’s non-porous.

Overall, it’s really hard to go wrong with either selection. If you don’t have a strong predetermined preference for granite or quartz, more often than not, your choice will be determined by the color and price point that works best for you.

No matter which route your take, however, both options will enhance the beauty, value, and appeal of your home for years to come.

In addition to granite and quartz, LifeStyle Homes also offers our customers the opportunity to select recycled glass countertops (binded by non-porous resin)—a great option for beachside homes!

As always, feel free to drop by LifeStyle’s design studio at 3453 W. New Haven Avenue, West Melbourne, to see and feel our countertop colors and selections first hand.