How Do I Choose Between Granite and Quartz?

Granite vs. Quartz: Which Countertop is Right for You?

Choosing between granite and quartz countertops can be challenging, as both materials offer unique advantages. Granite is a natural stone, prized for its durability and unique appearance, while quartz is an engineered material, known for its low maintenance and uniform design.

At Integrity Stonework, we help homeowners make the best choice for their kitchen based on style, durability, maintenance, and budget. In this guide, we’ll compare granite vs. quartz to help you decide which material fits your needs.

1. Appearance & Design

Granite: Natural Beauty with Unique Variations

✔ 100% Natural Stone – Each slab features one-of-a-kind veining, speckles, and color variations.
✔ Available in earthy tones, rich blacks, vibrant blues, and more.
✔ Ideal for those who love an organic, high-end aesthetic.

Quartz: Consistency & Modern Elegance

✔ Engineered for uniformity, with a wider range of colors and patterns than natural stone.
✔ Offers a sleek, contemporary look, including designs that mimic marble and granite.
✔ Ideal for homeowners who prefer a clean, consistent surface with no natural imperfections.

✅ Best Choice for Aesthetics:

Choose Granite if you love natural variation and uniqueness.

Choose Quartz if you want a consistent, modern, and polished design.

2. Durability & Resistance

Granite: Naturally Strong, But Requires Sealing

✔ Extremely durable – Resistant to scratches and heat.
✔ Handles hot pans and heavy use without damage.
✔ Requires periodic sealing to prevent stains and bacteria buildup.

Quartz: Engineered for Strength & Low Maintenance

✔ Non-porous surface – Resists stains, bacteria, and moisture without sealing.
✔ Highly scratch-resistant, making it ideal for busy kitchens.
✔ More flexible than granite, reducing the risk of chipping.

✅ Best Choice for Durability:

Choose Granite if you want natural heat resistance and can commit to occasional sealing.

Choose Quartz if you prefer a stain-resistant, no-maintenance option.

3. Maintenance & Upkeep

Granite: Needs Regular Sealing & Care

🔹 Requires sealing every 6-12 months to prevent stains and bacterial growth.
🔹 Spills should be wiped immediately, especially acidic substances like wine or citrus.
🔹 Mild soap and water are best for daily cleaning.

Quartz: Hassle-Free, No Sealing Required

🔹 No sealing needed, making it virtually maintenance-free.
🔹 Easily cleaned with soap and water or mild surface cleaners.
🔹 Resists stains from coffee, wine, and oils due to its non-porous surface.

✅ Best Choice for Low Maintenance:

Choose Granite if you don’t mind periodic sealing and want a fully natural material.

Choose Quartz if you want a carefree, low-maintenance countertop.

4. Cost & Investment

Granite: Price Varies by Rarity & Origin

✔ Starts at $40–$100 per square foot, depending on color and rarity.
✔ Exotic slabs can cost more but add higher resale value to homes.
✔ Requires professional installation due to weight.

Quartz: More Predictable Pricing

✔ Typically costs $50–$120 per square foot, depending on brand and style.
✔ Custom colors and premium brands increase pricing.
✔ Easier to install due to its consistent slab sizing.

✅ Best Choice for Budget:

Choose Granite if you want a natural stone investment that increases home value.

Choose Quartz if you prefer consistent pricing and minimal maintenance costs.

5. Environmental Impact

Granite: A Natural Resource

🌱 Mined from the earth, requiring transportation and extraction processes.
🌱 Sustainable when locally sourced, but imported slabs increase carbon footprint.

Quartz: Engineered for Efficiency

🌱 Made from natural quartz particles and resins, reducing mining needs.
🌱 Manufactured locally by many brands, lowering transportation emissions.

✅ Best Choice for Sustainability:

Choose Granite if you prefer a fully natural material.

Choose Quartz if you want a more eco-friendly, engineered alternative.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Feature	Granite	Quartz
Appearance	Natural variations	Uniform, customizable
Durability	Heat & scratch resistant	Scratch & stain resistant
Maintenance	Needs sealing	No sealing required
Cost	$40–$100/sq ft	$50–$120/sq ft
Eco-Friendliness	Natural, but requires mining	Engineered, often more sustainable

✅ Choose Granite if you want one-of-a-kind natural beauty, high heat resistance, and don’t mind sealing.
✅ Choose Quartz if you prefer a modern, low-maintenance, and stain-resistant surface.

Get Expert Advice & a Free Quote!

Still unsure whether granite or quartz is right for your kitchen? Our experts at Integrity Stonework can help! We offer personalized recommendations, custom fabrication, and professional installation to bring your vision to life.