The Truth About Quartz vs. Granite Countertops
Choosing a countertop isn’t just about color and cost. It’s about how you live, cook, and care for your space.
Two of the most popular choices for kitchen and bath remodels are quartz and granite. Both are beautiful, durable materials, but they’re not the same. At Woodsman Kitchens & Floors, we offer both, and we’re here to help you understand the real differences so you can make the best choice for your home.
Let’s separate fact from fiction.
What’s the Difference Between Quartz and Granite?
Quartz is a man-made material composed of about 90% ground natural quartz and 10% resins and pigments. This creates a strong, non-porous surface that mimics natural stone, with a consistent appearance and low maintenance.
Granite is 100% natural stone, cut from quarries and polished into slabs. Each piece is unique, with one-of-a-kind veining and movement.
Durability: Which One Lasts Longer?
Both are incredibly durable, but quartz holds a slight edge when it comes to maintenance.
Quartz: Non-porous and highly resistant to stains, scratches, and bacteria. No sealing required.
Granite: Very strong, but porous. Needs periodic sealing to prevent stains and bacteria buildup.
So if you want low-fuss care, quartz might be the better fit.
Appearance: Which Looks Better?
It depends on your style.
Quartz: More uniform in appearance. Great for clean, modern, or transitional designs.
Granite: Natural variation and dramatic patterns. Perfect for bold or classic spaces that celebrate nature’s uniqueness.
If you fall in love with a granite slab, there won’t be another one just like it. If you need consistent color across a large island and perimeter, quartz gives you that control.
Maintenance: Which Is Easier to Care For?
Quartz: Just wipe it down. That’s it.
Granite: Requires sealing once or twice a year, and needs gentler cleaning products.
Bottom line: quartz wins on convenience.
Heat and Stain Resistance
Granite: Naturally heat-resistant. You can place a hot pan on it (though we still recommend a trivet).
Quartz: Slightly less heat-tolerant because of the resins. Prolonged heat exposure can cause damage.
When it comes to stain resistance, quartz easily takes the lead because of its non-porous nature.
Cost: Is One More Expensive?
Not necessarily.
Quartz and granite can be similar in price, depending on the brand, color, and edge detail. However:
Granite tends to be more cost-effective at the entry level.
Quartz may have a slightly higher starting price, but offers more consistent quality.
At Woodsman, we help you compare pricing on real options (not just general ranges) so you can decide what fits your budget best.
Myth: Granite is Outdated
Not true. While quartz is dominating the market, granite is still a timeless and beloved material, especially in luxury and traditional homes. We see plenty of homeowners choosing granite for its depth, natural beauty, and tactile appeal.
So... Which Should You Choose?
Ask yourself:
Do I want a consistent look or natural variation?
Do I need something low-maintenance?
Am I okay with annual sealing?
Is heat-resistance important to me?
✔️ If you’re after convenience, clean style, and a worry-free surface, quartz might be your match.
✔️ If you love the idea of a one-of-a-kind piece of nature in your kitchen, granite is worth a serious look.
What We Offer at Woodsman
We proudly offer quartz and granite countertops, and we’ll guide you through samples, edge styles, and finish options in our showroom. Whether you're updating your kitchen, bath, bar, or laundry room, we’ll help you choose a surface that suits your style and stands up to daily life.
Still not sure?
Stop by our Jacksonville showroom or book a free design consultation. Let us help you find the perfect countertop for your space, one that works as beautifully as it looks.