Quartz vs. Granite: Which Countertop Material Is Right for You?

Choosing a countertop is one of the most important decisions in any kitchen or bath remodel. At Freedom Cabinets, we guide homeowners through key material comparisons every day. Two of the most popular countertop surfaces are quartz and granite. Each offers distinct advantages, but the best choice depends on your design goals, lifestyle, and maintenance preferences.
In this guide, we break down the key differences between quartz and granite to help you decide which one fits your home best.
What Is Quartz?
Quartz countertops are engineered stone surfaces made by combining ground quartz (a natural mineral) with resins, polymers, and pigments. The result is a non-porous, uniform material that can be designed in a wide range of colors and patterns.
Quartz is known for its:
- Consistency in appearance
- Low maintenance surface
- High resistance to stains and bacteria
- Modern and transitional design appeal
Because quartz is man-made, it offers more control over patterning, color, and finish. Many quartz slabs mimic the look of marble or granite but with added performance benefits.
What Is Granite?
Granite is a natural stone quarried from the earth, then cut and polished into slabs. No two granite countertops are alike due to the variation in veining, color, and mineral content.
Granite is prized for its:
- Natural beauty and uniqueness
- Exceptional hardness and heat resistance
- Wide range of colors and patterns
- Long-standing value in home design
Because it is natural, granite will have irregularities that add character but may be less consistent across slabs.
Appearance & Style
If your design aesthetic leans modern, transitional, or minimalist, quartz often offers more predictable veining and color uniformity. Popular styles include marble-look whites, soft grays, and matte finishes. Some quartz collections closely replicate Calacatta and Carrara marble.
Granite appeals to homeowners who want a natural, organic look. Each slab is a one-of-a-kind creation by nature, with dramatic patterns and depth that quartz can’t replicate entirely. It pairs well with traditional, rustic, or eclectic designs.
Durability & Longevity
Both quartz and granite are considered highly durable countertop materials. However, they differ in how they respond to certain conditions:
- Quartz is non-porous, making it highly stain- and bacteria-resistant. It's less likely to crack or chip from daily use.
- Granite is extremely hard and heat resistant, but it's a porous stone. Without proper sealing, it can absorb spills or stain over time.
Quartz may be a better choice for busy households or families with young children, while granite excels in homes where heat resistance and a natural look are priorities.
Maintenance Requirements
Quartz is the clear winner when it comes to ease of care. Since it doesn't need sealing, routine cleaning with mild soap and water is usually sufficient. It's also resistant to etching from acidic foods and cleaning agents.
Granite needs a bit more attention. To maintain its stain resistance, it should be sealed annually. Cleaning should be done with stone-safe products to avoid damaging the surface.
Heat & Scratch Resistance
Granite has the edge in heat resistance, you can place a hot pan directly on the surface without damage (though trivets are still recommended).
Quartz, while durable, can discolor or crack under direct high heat. It's also scratch resistant but not scratch-proof, especially with forceful impact or sharp knives.
Environmental Considerations
Quartz production involves synthetic resins, which may raise environmental concerns for some buyers. However, many quartz manufacturers now offer low-VOC and recycled content options.
Granite is 100% natural, but quarrying and transportation require significant energy. If sustainability is a priority, locally sourced or remnant granite could reduce environmental impact.
Cost Comparison
Quartz and granite are similarly priced in most markets, though costs vary depending on brand, color, slab thickness, and edge profile.
- Quartz typically ranges from $70 to $120 per square foot installed
- Granite ranges from $60 to $100 per square foot installed, but rare or exotic slabs can go higher
Quartz pricing is often more predictable, while granite pricing can fluctuate due to natural rarity and availability.
Installation Considerations
Both materials require professional fabrication and installation due to their weight and precise cutting needs. Your cabinetry must be structurally sound and level to support either stone type.
At Freedom Cabinets, we work with trusted countertop fabricators who ensure accurate templating, seamless installation, and flawless edge finishes.
Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing between quartz and granite comes down to what matters most in your project:
Choose Quartz if:
- You prefer low maintenance
- You want a uniform look
- You have a modern or minimalist design style
- You’re concerned about staining or bacteria
Choose Granite if:
- You love natural variation and stone patterns
- You frequently cook with hot pans
- You want a classic or traditional kitchen style
- You don’t mind routine sealing
Both quartz and granite add lasting value to your home. The best surface for you will align with your lifestyle, design vision, and maintenance preferences.
Helping Ohio Homeowners Make Smart Countertop Choices
Helping Ohio Homeowners Make Smart CAt Freedom Cabinets, we help homeowners throughout North Royalton, Hudson, and nearby communities find the right countertop to match their cabinetry and overall kitchen vision.
- Our showrooms feature real quartz and granite samples
- We offer side-by-side comparisons of performance and design
- Our team provides guidance on pairing countertops with cabinet colors, flooring, and backsplash choices
- We partner with skilled fabricators to ensure quality from selection to installation
You don’t have to navigate the countertop world alone. We’re here to walk you through materials, costs, and aesthetics so your final space looks great and functions beautifully.ountertop Choices
Visit Our Showrooms to Compare Quartz vs. Granite in Person
Nothing beats seeing full slabs and real-life samples. Stop by our North Royalton or Hudson showroom to:
- View quartz and granite surfaces under natural lighting
- See edge profiles and thickness options
- Match samples to your cabinetry or flooring choices
- Ask questions about sealing, cleaning, and durability
Our design team will help you visualize the big picture so your final kitchen feels both timeless and practical.
Why Work With Freedom Cabinets?
We’re a family-owned company focused on quality, education, and transparency. Whether you’re building new or remodeling, we take the time to learn about your needs before offering product recommendations. We carry multiple cabinetry and countertop lines, so you’ll never feel boxed into one brand.
When you work with Freedom Cabinets, you get:
- Honest advice
- Personalized design help
- Beautiful material options in every budget
- A stress-free experience from concept to completion
FAQs: Quartz vs. Granite Countertops
Which material is more durable: quartz or granite?
Both are durable, but in different ways. Quartz is more resistant to stains and cracking; granite handles heat better and is slightly more scratch-resistant.
Does quartz need to be sealed like granite?
No. Quartz is non-porous and doesn’t require sealing. Granite should be sealed once a year to prevent stains.
Which is more expensive?
Costs are comparable. Quartz tends to be more consistent in pricing, while granite varies based on the uniqueness of the slab.
Can I put hot pans directly on quartz?
Not recommended. Use trivets or hot pads to protect quartz from heat damage. Granite can tolerate heat better but should still be treated with care.
Is one material better for resale value?
Both are attractive to buyers. Granite has a longer history in real estate, but quartz’s popularity is rising thanks to its low maintenance.
Plan Your Kitchen with Freedom Cabinets
Ready to choose the perfect countertop for your kitchen or bath remodel?
Let our experts help you compare quartz and granite in person, explain the details clearly, and match your selection to your cabinetry style and daily needs.
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