Choosing between quartz and granite comes down to your lifestyle and design preferences. Quartz is a low-maintenance, non-porous engineered stone with consistent patterns. Granite is a natural, heat-resistant stone where every slab is completely unique, though it requires periodic sealing.
Quartz countertops are made of “engineered stone" and have a low maintenance, uniform look. Granite countertops are unique slabs of mined stone that require more care than quartz. Both options are durable and beautiful.
Granite’s decline in popularity largely stems from shifting design trends. The heavily patterned, multi-colored granites popular in the early 2000s now look dated to modern homeowners. Furthermore, the rise of uniform, low-maintenance alternatives like quartz has pushed granite out of the design spotlight.
In fact, the average cost of quartz puts it somewhere right in the middle of countertop prices. Most quartz countertops cost anywhere from $90 to $185 per square foot. That's much higher than a laminate counter ($20 to $60 per square foot) or a tile countertop ($25 to $90 per square foot).
We have compiled a list of our top-selling and most popular kitchen countertops over the past year.
These factors influence countertop selection just as much as appearance.
Countertops in 2026 are shifting away from sterile, cool grays toward warm, organic, and dramatic looks. The biggest trends prioritize inviting neutrals (creams, beiges, and taupes), sweeping natural veins, and bold, earth-toned statement stones.
Yes, Dawn dish soap is safe for quartz countertops. It is one of the best everyday cleaners you can use, provided it is heavily diluted with warm water.
Color and Variety: The color and specific variety of quartz play a significant role in determining its price. For instance, clear quartz is generally more affordable than its colorful counterparts like amethyst or citrine. Among the colored varieties, deep, saturated hues often command higher prices.
Any Shade of Granite
Interior designer Danielle Davis encourages clients to veer away from granite in any shade, which she says will read as an early 2000s look that is no longer in vogue. Granite comes in shades ranging from gray to red to blue to green and beyond.
Yes, you can use Dawn dish soap on granite. Because it is a mild, pH-balanced detergent, it is an excellent and safe choice for everyday cleaning.
Granite is Heat Resistant
The primary concern with heat and granite is cracking. Homeowners don't need to worry about damaging their countertops with everyday use because granite is quite heat resistant.
Yes, using Clorox wipes on quartz countertops can cause damage. While a single wipe-up in an emergency likely won't cause immediate harm, relying on them regularly can break down the polymer resin binder in the quartz, leading to dullness, a loss of shine, and discoloration over time.
If you want the lowest maintenance countertop, Quartz and Porcelain are your top choices. Both are completely non-porous, highly resistant to stains, and never require sealing.
Yes, you can use vinegar on quartz countertops, but it must be equal parts vinegar and water. Diluting the vinegar helps minimize the acidity, reducing the risk of dulling the surface or breaking down the resin in quartz. Use the solution sparingly and wipe the area afterward with a damp cloth to remove any residue.
Yes, you can safely put a hot cup of coffee on a quartz countertop. A freshly brewed cup of coffee typically sits between 140∘F and 180∘F (60∘C and 82∘C), which is well below the threshold where quartz resins begin to be damaged (usually around 150∘F to 300∘F depending on the brand).
Dark floors pair particularly well with lighter countertops in large kitchens, where there is enough natural light to prevent the space from feeling heavy. Charcoal tiles, dark-stained engineered wood, or concrete-effect porcelain are often used to create a strong architectural base.
Currently, quartz countertops typically range from $50 to $120 per square foot installed. This price includes both materials and professional installation.
Yes, you can use Windex on quartz, but you should only use ammonia-free formulas (such as Windex Multi-Surface or Windex Vinegar). Avoid classic blue Windex, as it contains ammonia, which can degrade the resin binding the quartz and cause discoloration or dullness over time.
Those crystals are the foundation of granite's reflective quality. The most important minerals responsible for sparkle are quartz and mica. Quartz crystals are naturally glassy and reflective. Mica, especially muscovite and biotite, produces tiny reflective flakes that shimmer under light.
This makes it awesome at scrubbing away stains, but it can also damage certain surfaces if you're not careful. Quartz is tough, but it's not invincible. If you use a Magic Eraser too aggressively, it could scratch or dull the surface over time.
A kitchen is typically considered outdated when it suffers from a combination of failing appliances, poor lighting, worn-out surfaces, and an isolating, disjointed layout. Trends evolve, and what was once fashionable can make the entire heart of the home feel less functional and visually unappealing.
The biggest trend for 2026 is the use of countertops as statement pieces. Deep Veining and Rich Movement: Homeowners are turning toward natural stone and high-end quartz surfaces that feature dramatic, sweeping veins and organic movement. Think marble and quartzite with rich colors that feel luxurious and grounded.
Granite is not out of style in 2026, but the aesthetic has completely shifted. Heavily speckled or busy beige, orange, and gold tones are dated, while modern renovations feature neutral palettes, marble-like veining, and matte, leathered, or honed finishes.