When choosing a dining table, it can be hard to decide between granite and quartz. Both are popular choices! But you can’t exactly have both… unless, of course, you have an enormous kitchen that can accommodate two dining tables!
So if you’re torn, and worried about making the wrong decision, you can find more information below about each kind of material, including their pros and cons, and some other considerations (cost, maintenance, etc).
If you like these tables but can’t decide which one to choose – keep reading!
What is granite?
Did you know that granite is a natural stone that’s actually formed from cooled magma beneath the Earth’s surface and it’s made up of various minerals? This is exactly what provides this stunning material with such unique patterns and colours, meaning no two pieces of granite look the same.
Thanks to the way that it’s made, it’s extremely durable and heat resistant, making it the perfect material for your dining table. It will last for years to come and you can put hot dishes straight on it without worrying about the surface burning, as you would with wood.
The appeal of granite dining tables
Every piece is unique
Granite is a natural stone and each slab is unique. That’s what drew me in when I first looked at granite tables. Every piece has different patterns and colours, and this makes your table one-of-a-kind. If you’re someone who likes having something that no one else does, granite might be a great option for you.
Adds a touch of luxury
A granite dining table can immediately give any room a sense of luxury. The natural patterns add character to the space and I love the idea of bringing something from the Earth into your home.
Durability
Granite is incredibly durable. With kids running around, it would be the ideal table for me, especially if I need something that can withstand scratches, heat, and stains. Granite ticked all those boxes.
Some things to note
But—and this is something to consider—granite tables are heavy. We had granite worktops in our previous home and they were solid. Luckily, once your table is in place, it probably won’t be moved around that much, but do consider how you’ll get it into the house. And once you’ve decided on a place for it, maybe don’t change your mind!
It’s also important to reseal granite regularly because it’s a porous stone. Without proper sealing, spills can seep into the surface and cause stains which you absolutely don’t want, especially if you’ve chosen a white or cream granite dining table.
What is quartz?
Unlike granite, which is a natural material, quartz is an engineered stone. It is made by combining natural quartz with resins and pigments, and this process can create a more uniform look compared to granite. Quartz tables are non-porou, makinf them resistant to stains and easy to maintain. Sounds like the perfect material for your dining table, right?!
Advantages of quartz dining tables
Clean and modern design
When I was looking at quartz tables, I noticed they had a sleeker, more modern appearance compared to the natural variations in granite. If you prefer a cleaner and more consistent look, quartz might be your best bet.
Low maintenance
What I love about quartz is that it’s non-porous. You don’t have to worry about sealing it and spills aren’t as big of a concern as they may be with granite. It’s also incredibly strong, resistant to scratches and stains. If you’re like me and want something low-maintenance, quartz delivers.
Some things to note
Quartz isn’t as heat resistant as granite so don’t be putting piping hot dishes straight onto the table. I’d recommend that you use trivets or heat-proof mats on a quartz surface to keep it looking its best.
Granite vs quartz dining tables – Cost considerations
Both granite and quartz dining tables tend to fall on the pricier side, but there are differences. Granite can sometimes be more expensive, depending on the rarity of the stone, and the unique patterns and natural beauty it has to give can often come with a higher price tag.
Quartz, while still expensive, tends to be a bit more affordable. Since it’s engineered, you’re not paying for the rarity of the stone but for its durability and uniform appearance. If you’re working within a budget, quartz might be the better option.
Summary: Quartz may be slightly cheaper than granite.
Granite vs quartz dining tables – Maintenance and durability
In my experience, both materials are incredibly durable, but they require different levels of care. As I mentioned earlier, granite is porous, so it needs regular sealing. We used to reseal our old granite worksurfaces every couple of years. It’s not a difficult task but something to keep in mind. If you’re someone who doesn’t want to worry about maintenance, you might find this to be a downside.
Quartz, being non-porous, is virtually maintenance-free. You don’t have to worry about sealing it, and cleaning is a breeze. A simple wipe with a damp cloth is usually enough to keep it looking good.
That said, granite is more heat-resistant, so if you often serve hot dishes directly on the table, granite might be the better choice.
Summary: Quartz requires less maintenance but isn’t heat resistant.
Granite vs quartz dining tables – Aesthetic appeal
When it comes to aesthetics, it really boils down to personal preference. Granite has that natural, earthy look, and the patterns are irregular and unique, which can give your dining area a more organic feel.
Quartz, on the other hand, offers a more streamlined, modern look. If you prefer sleek lines and uniformity, quartz delivers that. It comes in a wide range of colours so you can match it to almost any decor. While I appreciate the beauty of quartz, I sometimes miss the natural charm that comes with granite.
Summary: Granite is more natural and uneven whereas quartz has a more uniform pattern
Granite vs quartz dining tables – Making the right choice
At the end of the day, the right choice regarding granite vs quartz dining tables depends on what you value most. If you want something unique, durable, and heat-resistant – and you don’t mind a bit of maintenance – granite could be perfect for you.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more modern look that’s low maintenance and are willing to be cautious with heat, quartz might be the way to go.
Sarah is the creator and founder of Dream of Home, a website that began during Sarah’s first home renovation project. Since then, the site has grown and Sarah produces content around all things home, including home decor, DIY projects, renovation tips, inspiration and more. In her spare time, she loves to read and garden.
