The quartz vs granite countertops debate is one of the most common conversations Edmonton homeowners have during kitchen renovations. Both are premium countertop materials. Both look beautiful. But they’re made differently, perform differently, and suit different priorities. Here’s a clear, honest comparison to help you decide which is right for your Edmonton kitchen.
Quartz vs Granite Countertops: What They’re Made Of
Understanding what each material actually is helps clarify the rest of the comparison:
Granite is a natural stone quarried from the earth. Each slab is unique — cut from a single piece of stone with natural colour variation, veining, and character that no two slabs share. It’s one of the hardest natural stones available.
Quartz is an engineered stone — approximately 90–95% crushed quartz crystals bound with polymer resin. It’s manufactured to consistent specifications, available in a controlled range of colours and patterns, and non-porous by design.
Quartz vs Granite Countertops: Maintenance
This is where the quartz vs granite countertops comparison most clearly favours quartz for many Edmonton homeowners.
Quartz: Non-porous — no sealing required, ever. Resistant to staining from wine, coffee, oil, and most kitchen substances. Clean with soap and water.
Granite: Porous — requires sealing once or twice a year to maintain stain resistance. Without regular sealing, granite can absorb oils, wine, and acidic liquids over time. Some granite colours and patterns are more porous than others.
For busy Edmonton families who want a countertop that requires minimal ongoing care, quartz wins the quartz vs granite countertops maintenance comparison decisively.
Quartz vs Granite Countertops: Durability
Both materials are extremely durable — either will outlast the rest of your kitchen renovation with normal care. But there are subtle differences in the quartz vs granite countertops durability comparison:
- Scratch resistance: Both are very hard. Granite is slightly more scratch-resistant; quartz is close behind. Neither should be used as a cutting board.
- Heat resistance: Granite handles heat better — you can set a hot pot directly on granite without damage. Quartz can be damaged by sustained high heat; always use trivets.
- Chipping: Both can chip at edges under impact. Granite chips tend to be more noticeable; quartz chips can sometimes be repaired with colour-matched filler.
Quartz vs Granite Countertops: Appearance
In the quartz vs granite countertops appearance comparison, this comes down to personal preference:
Granite offers natural, one-of-a-kind beauty. The variation between slabs — and even across a single slab — gives granite a depth and character that engineered stone can approximate but not perfectly replicate. Edmonton homeowners who love natural stone often find granite’s uniqueness a feature, not a flaw.
Quartz offers consistency and a wider controlled range of looks — including patterns that mimic marble, concrete, and stone. For homeowners who want a specific, predictable look across a large kitchen, quartz delivers it reliably.
Quartz vs Granite Countertops: Cost in Edmonton
In the quartz vs granite countertops cost comparison for Edmonton, pricing is comparable:
- Granite: $55–$130+ per sq ft installed — varies widely by slab origin, rarity, and thickness
- Quartz: $65–$120+ per sq ft installed — varies by brand and pattern complexity
Entry-level granite can be slightly more affordable than entry-level quartz. Premium granite and premium quartz are similarly priced. For a full breakdown, see our kitchen countertop cost guide for Edmonton.
Quartz vs Granite Countertops: The Verdict
- Want low maintenance and consistent appearance: Quartz wins
- Love natural stone and don’t mind annual sealing: Granite wins
- Plan to use the kitchen heavily: Quartz’s non-porous surface is more forgiving
- Heat resistance is a priority: Granite handles hot pots better
LCF Flooring carries both quartz and granite countertops as part of our custom countertops in Edmonton service. Visit our showroom to see and compare slabs in person, browse our project portfolio, or contact us for a free quote. Ask about our financing options.