Key Takeaways
Few kitchen choices spark as much debate as quartz vs granite countertops. This guide covers
- How quartz and granite differ in makeup and appearance
- Why non-porous durability gives quartz an edge on stains
- Which material handles heat and sunlight better
- How the maintenance comparison plays out year to year
- What both cost, using the $50 to $150+ per square foot range
Each of these materials is equally good looking, durable, and priced about the same overall. The differences still only show up when you start to use them. In South Florida, where we have lots of sun streaming into the home through sliding glass doors, access to the lanai from the kitchen, and some source of humidity always available, these differences matter more. Here’s a comparison of granite and quartz countertops.
What Each Material Is Made Of
Granite is formed from natural stone that has been extracted from quarries and polished to form slabs. Each slab is unique; thus, the veining and flecks found in the kitchen will be unique to it. Quartz is an artificial material. It is made up of ground quartz particles combined with resins and pigments.
Non-Porous Durability
Quartz countertops are non-porous because of how engineered quartz surfaces are manufactured. Spills such as coffee, wine, and cooking oil generally stay on the surface and can be wiped clean.
Granite is naturally porous, but sealing prevents any staining from getting through. But the sealing needs to be redone after a while since it gets worn out. Scratches are not common with both materials, but chipping may happen at the edges due to falling pots.
Heat Resistance
Granite generally handles heat better than quartz countertops. Quartz contains resin, which can be damaged by very hot cookware, so using a trivet is the safer choice.
Sunlight gives quartz industries an interesting twist. Heavy sunlight can fade quartz after many years. If you have a large kitchen with many windows facing south or even many sliding glasses, pay attention to the quartz problem. When it comes to your outdoor kitchen, Granite is generally a better choice for areas with constant UV exposure.
Maintenance Comparison
| Factor | Quartz | Granite |
| Appearance | Uniform, designed patterns | Natural, one-of-a-kind variation |
| Porosity | Non-porous | Porous without sealer |
| Sealing | Not required | Periodic resealing |
| Hot pans | Use a trivet | Handles heat well |
| Direct sunlight | Can fade over time | Stable in the sun |
| Daily cleaning | Mild soap and water | Mild soap and water |
On a daily basis, they are both cleaned using the same process. Soapy water is all that’s needed for cleaning while corrosive chemicals should remain in the storage unit. Granite may need periodic sealing depending on the stone’s porosity and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Quartz does not require sealing.
What Quartz and Granite Cost
Well, the cost for countertops is roughly $50 to $150+ per square foot, depending on the countertop slab, edge type, cutouts, and other project details. To learn more about kitchen remodeling costs in Fort Lauderdale, see our kitchen remodel cost guide.
Quartz and granite countertops both fall in this price category. If you need a large island or a waterfall edge, expect prices to be higher in this case.
Make sure to request quotes for the same edge type and the same cutouts to get an exact comparison. The two prices may be very different, but in most cases, they will refer to different jobs. Don’t forget that the fabrication and installation process also plays a huge role, and ask who will cut the stone and how it will be installed.
Looks, Seams, and Slab Selection
Appearance is something that merits closer examination than most people give it. Quartz has a tendency to exhibit a repetitive pattern over a long run, whereas granite varies from one end of the slab to the other. Neither is a drawback; it’s all a matter of preference, and it’s always good to know what you want before you go shopping.
Seams are another consideration. Long runs and large islands often necessitate multiple slabs, and a good fabricator will make the joins in inconspicuous places. It’s always a good idea to shop in person, if you can: the lighting in a showroom is rarely comparable to what you have at home, and colors can look quite different in different lights. A nice neutral brown may look warm and inviting in the showroom, but it may also clash frightfully with your cabinets after you take it home.
Which One Fits Your Kitchen?
Quartz can be a good choice for those who want to get rid of the hassle of cleaning and have a consistent color countertop that will not necessarily leave dark spots on the kitchen surface. Granite is perfect for those who are not afraid of leaving hot pans on the surface and those who desire the natural look of stone, and those who want to make their outdoor kitchen or lanai more resistant to the weather.
Final Thoughts
The choice between quartz and granite countertops depends on quartz use, granite use, how upkeep you will do and how much sun your kitchen receives. Neither choice is wrong. To plan your countertops as part of a larger update, see our kitchen remodeling services in Fort Lauderdale. Javier’s Painting And Handyman Services brings more than 35 years of hands-on experience to South Florida homes, and you can request a free estimate whenever you are ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is quartz or granite best for a kitchen countertop in Florida?
Neither option is better than the other. Both materials have pros and cons based on how much you cook and the lighting conditions of your kitchen.
Does granite need to be sealed?
Sure. This stone is very porous by nature and, therefore, requires sealing. You will have to do it from time to time.
Can you place hot pots directly on quartz countertops?
No. The resin found in quartz can get damaged and become discolored by hot temperature.
