If you’re planning a kitchen remodel in Birmingham, granite and quartz are probably the two materials at the top of your list. Both are popular, both look great, and both last a long time. But they are not the same material, and the right choice depends on how you use your kitchen, how much maintenance you’re willing to do, and what kind of look you’re going for.
This guide covers the real differences between granite and quartz — not just the marketing version, but the practical information you need before making a decision.
What Is Granite?
Granite is a natural stone. It forms underground over millions of years through the cooling and solidification of magma. Each slab is cut directly from quarried rock, which means no two pieces are identical. The variation in color, veining, and mineral patterns is part of what makes granite appealing — and part of what makes it unpredictable in the best way.
Granite is one of the hardest natural stones used in countertops. It resists scratches from knives and everyday kitchen tools, and it handles heat well under normal conditions.
Because it is porous, granite requires sealing — typically once a year, depending on the stone and how heavily the surface is used. Without sealing, liquids like red wine, oil, or acidic juices can penetrate the surface and cause staining over time.
What Is Quartz?
Quartz countertops are engineered stone. They are made from approximately 90–95% crushed natural quartz crystals combined with polymer resins and pigments. The result is a consistent, non-porous surface that is uniform in color and pattern.
Because quartz is manufactured, it offers far more predictability than natural stone. You can choose from hundreds of colors and finishes, including options that closely mimic the look of marble or natural stone without the maintenance requirements.
Quartz does not require sealing. Its non-porous surface resists staining without any treatment, which makes it a practical choice for busy kitchens.
Granite vs Quartz: Side-by-Side Comparison
Durability
Both materials are extremely durable. Granite is harder on the Mohs scale and is highly resistant to scratching. Quartz is slightly more flexible and resists chipping better in edge profiles. For everyday kitchen use, both will hold up for decades when properly installed and cared for.
Edge: Roughly equal for most homeowners.
Maintenance
Granite requires annual sealing to maintain stain resistance. The process is straightforward but it is a recurring task. Quartz requires no sealing — clean it with mild soap and water.
Edge: Quartz wins for low maintenance.
Heat Resistance
Granite handles heat very well. You can set a warm pan on granite without damage in most cases, though using a trivet is still the recommended practice to avoid thermal shock over time.
Quartz is more sensitive to heat. The resin binders in quartz can discolor or crack under sustained high temperatures. Hot pans placed directly on quartz can cause permanent marks.
Edge: Granite wins for heat resistance.
Appearance
Granite offers unique, one-of-a-kind slabs. No two pieces look the same. The natural variation is a feature for homeowners who want character and distinctiveness in their kitchen.
Quartz offers consistency. If you want a uniform look with predictable patterning, quartz delivers that. Modern quartz designs have improved significantly and many closely replicate the look of natural stone.
Edge: Depends on preference. Granite for natural character; quartz for consistency.
Stain Resistance
Quartz is non-porous and resists staining without any treatment. Unsealed granite can absorb liquids and stain, particularly from acidic foods and beverages.
Edge: Quartz wins for stain resistance.
Cost
Granite and quartz are generally comparable in price, though costs vary significantly based on the specific stone, slab size, edge profiles, and complexity of the installation. Premium granite slabs with rare color patterns can cost more than standard quartz. High-end quartz brands can match or exceed granite pricing.
In the Birmingham market, most homeowners should expect both materials to fall within a similar price range for mid-tier options. The fabrication and installation costs are comparable for both.
Edge: Similar — depends on the specific material chosen.
Resale Value
Both granite and quartz are viewed positively by homebuyers. In the Birmingham and Alabama market, either material is considered a quality upgrade. Neither has a clear advantage over the other in terms of resale impact.
Edge: Equal.
Which One Should You Choose?
There is no single right answer. The decision comes down to your priorities.
Choose granite if:
– You want a truly unique, one-of-a-kind countertop
– You cook with high heat regularly and want a material that handles it naturally
– You appreciate natural stone and the character it brings to a kitchen
– You are comfortable with annual sealing as part of home maintenance
Choose quartz if:
– You want a low-maintenance surface with no sealing required
– You prefer consistent color and pattern throughout your kitchen
– You have young children or a household with high spill frequency
– You want a wider range of color options, including designs that mimic marble
What About the Installation?
The installation process for granite and quartz is similar in terms of timeline and complexity. Both require professional fabrication — cutting, edging, and polishing to fit your specific countertop dimensions. Both need to be installed by experienced fabricators who understand how each material behaves during cutting and templating.
At Maranatha Stone and Floors, we fabricate and install both granite and quartz in-house at our Pelham, Alabama facility. We serve Birmingham and surrounding areas, and we carry a wide selection of granite slabs and quartz brands including Silestone, HanStone, and Cambria.
If you are not sure which material is right for your project, our team can walk you through the options at our showroom. We stock a range of slabs so you can see the actual material before you commit.
Common Questions
Can you put hot pans on quartz?
No — or at least, it is not recommended. The resin in quartz can discolor or warp under sustained heat. Always use a trivet or hot pad on quartz.
Does granite stain easily?
Sealed granite resists stains well. Unsealed or poorly sealed granite can absorb liquids. Keep your granite sealed and wipe up spills promptly, especially acidic liquids.
Which lasts longer?
Both materials can last the lifetime of a home when properly installed and maintained. Neither has a clear durability advantage over the other for typical residential use.
Is quartz more expensive than granite?
Not necessarily. The price depends on the specific material, brand, and slab. Both granite and quartz have entry-level and premium options. Get quotes for the specific stones you are considering rather than assuming one is cheaper than the other.
Ready to See Your Options in Person?
If you are deciding between granite and quartz for a kitchen or bathroom remodel in Birmingham, the best next step is to visit our showroom in Pelham and see the slabs yourself. Photos do not do either material justice.
We can provide a quote based on your countertop dimensions, walk you through fabrication timelines, and help you choose the material that fits your project and budget.
Request a quote or schedule a consultation: maranatha.pro/contact or call us at 205.663.0400.
Maranatha Stone and Floors — Custom countertop fabrication and installation in Birmingham, AL and surrounding areas.