When it comes to choosing the perfect countertop for your kitchen or bathroom, two materials dominate the conversation: granite and quartz. Both are popular, beautiful, and highly durable — but they’re not the same. Whether you’re remodeling your family kitchen in Uxbridge or building a vacation home in Cottage Country, understanding the differences can help you make the right decision for your space.
In this guide, we’ll compare granite vs quartz countertops across all the key factors: appearance, durability, maintenance, price, and more.
What’s the Difference Between Granite and Quartz?
Granite is a 100% natural stone, quarried from the earth, cut into slabs, and polished for use in homes.
Quartz countertops, on the other hand, are engineered using crushed natural quartz combined with resin and pigments. They offer the look of natural stone with the added benefits of uniformity and enhanced performance.
Appearance: Natural vs Consistent
- Granite:
Every granite slab is unique. You’ll find natural veining, mineral flecks, and one-of-a-kind colour combinations. This makes it perfect if you’re going for a natural, organic feel. - Quartz:
Because it’s engineered, quartz can be made in consistent colours and patterns. It’s ideal for modern designs or when you want the look of marble or concrete without the maintenance.
✅ Best for:
- Granite if you want a one-of-a-kind natural look
- Quartz if you want a clean, consistent design
Durability: Tough Choices
- Granite:
Granite is extremely durable and can withstand heat and heavy use. However, it is porous and must be sealed regularly to prevent staining. - Quartz:
Quartz is harder than granite and non-porous, so it resists stains, scratches, and bacteria without needing sealing. But it’s not as heat-resistant as granite — you’ll want to use trivets.
✅ Best for:
- Granite if heat resistance is a priority
- Quartz if stain resistance and easy care matter more
Maintenance: How Hands-On Are You?
- Granite:
Needs sealing every 1–3 years depending on use. Wipe spills quickly to prevent staining. - Quartz:
Just clean with soap and water — no sealing required. Super easy to maintain.
✅ Best for:
- Quartz if you want a low-maintenance surface
- Granite if you don’t mind occasional upkeep
Cost: How Do They Compare?
Both materials range in price depending on colour, thickness, and edge profile, but here’s a general comparison:
| Material | Price Range (Installed) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Granite | $$–$$$ | Some rare colours or patterns can be expensive |
| Quartz | $$–$$$ | More consistent in cost and availability |
✅ Best for:
- Both are similarly priced — it depends on the look and features you want
Environmental Considerations
- Granite:
A natural product with minimal processing, but it’s quarried and shipped long distances. - Quartz:
Engineered using resins, but some brands offer recycled quartz or eco-conscious production methods.
Style & Design Flexibility
- Granite works well in traditional, rustic, or farmhouse spaces.
- Quartz is perfect for modern, minimalist, and transitional designs.
- Both can be customized with edge profiles like eased, bevel, or ogee — learn more about edge options here.
So, Granite or Quartz? Here’s a Quick Recap:
| Feature | Granite | Quartz |
|---|---|---|
| Look | Unique & natural | Consistent & modern |
| Maintenance | Needs sealing | Maintenance-free |
| Heat Resistance | Excellent | Moderate |
| Stain Resistance | Moderate | Excellent |
| Outdoor Use | Suitable | Not recommended |
| Price | $$–$$$ | $$–$$$ |
Serving Uxbridge, Peterborough, Durham Region & Beyond
At Counter Reactions, we offer custom granite and quartz countertops for homeowners, builders, and designers throughout:
- Uxbridge
- Kawartha Lakes
- Peterborough
- Durham Region
- Cottage Country & surrounding areas
We’ll walk you through the selection, templating, fabrication, and installation process — with expert guidance at every step.
Related Pages
Not Sure Which to Choose?
Send us your measurements or visit our showroom to view full slabs of both granite and quartz. We’ll help you find the perfect surface for your kitchen, bathroom, or custom project — and provide a free quote.
