When planning a kitchen remodel, one of the most significant decisions you'll make is choosing the right countertop material. For decades, granite has been the gold standard for luxury kitchens, but in recent years, engineered quartz has surged in popularity. So, which one is right for you?
Natural Beauty vs. Engineered Consistency
Granite is a 100% natural stone mined from quarries around the world. Because it's natural, no two slabs are exactly alike. It offers unique veining, colors, and patterns that bring a piece of nature into your home.
Quartz, on the other hand, is an engineered product made from roughly 90% natural quartz crystals bound together with 10% polymer resins and pigments. This manufacturing process allows for consistent patterns and a wider variety of colors, including pure white, which is impossible to find in natural granite.
Durability and Maintenance
Both materials are incredibly durable and will last a lifetime if properly cared for, but they have different maintenance requirements.
- Granite is porous, meaning it can absorb liquids if not properly sealed. We recommend sealing granite countertops annually to prevent staining. It is, however, highly heat resistant—you can place hot pans directly on the surface without damage.
- Quartz is completely non-porous. It never needs to be sealed and is highly resistant to stains from wine, coffee, and oils. However, the resins in quartz can melt or scorch if exposed to extreme heat, so you must always use a trivet under hot pots and pans.
The Verdict
Choose granite if you want a one-of-a-kind natural look and prioritize heat resistance. Choose quartz if you prefer a consistent pattern, pure colors, and want a truly zero-maintenance, stain-proof surface.