Quartz vs Granite Countertops: Which Is Better for Ontario Homes?
Planning a kitchen upgrade in Ontario? Picking between quartz and granite is a major milestone. Both deliver stunning style and durability, but they cater to very different lifestyles. In this article, we will help you compare Quartz vs Granite countertops. Read on.
Quick Answer
- Quartz countertops are non-porous & require no sealing. They are ideal for low-maintenance kitchens in Ontario.
- Granite countertops are 100% natural stone. They offer unique patterns and excellent heat resistance but require regular sealing.
- Quartz vs granite countertop costs in Ontario typically range from $45 to $130 per sq. ft. for quartz and $60 to $150 per sq. ft. for granite, including installation.
- Choose quartz if you want stain resistance, consistent designs, and minimal maintenance. Choose granite if you prefer natural beauty and superior heat resistance.
- Both quartz and granite can increase your Ontario home’s value.
Understanding Quartz and Granite Countertops
Quartz Countertops?
Quartz is an engineered stone. Quartz slabs are made of natural quartz blended with polymer resins & pigments. Manufacturers press this mixture into slabs, cure, and polish them. This results in a material that resembles natural stone but is non-porous. Major brands available in Toronto include Caesarstone, Silestone, GTA Marble, Cambria, and MSI.
Granite Countertops?
Granite is a natural igneous rock that develops from cooled magma deep underground. Workers quarry it in large blocks, slice it into slabs, polish it, and install it as countertops. Because every slab features unique natural patterns, no two pieces are identical. It is composed of quartz, mica, and feldspar minerals. Granite stands as one of the hardest natural countertop materials available.
Quartz vs Granite Countertops: Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Feature | Quartz Countertops | Granite Countertops |
| Composition | Engineered stone made of approximately 93% natural quartz and 7% polymer resins and pigments. | 100% natural igneous stone quarried directly from the earth. |
| Maintenance | Non-porous surface requires no sealing and resists stains from coffee, oil, wine, and other spills. | Porous surface that requires annual sealing to help prevent permanent stains. |
| Heat Resistance | Heat resistant up to 400°F. Trivets or hot pads are recommended to prevent damage from sudden temperature changes. | Excellent heat resistance and can withstand direct contact with hot pans. |
| Durability | Resin makes the material more flexible, helping resist cracks and chips. Heavy material that requires professional installation. | Extremely hard and highly scratch-resistant, but edges can chip from heavy impacts. |
| Appearance | Consistent appearance with hundreds of colour and pattern options, including marble-look designs. | Every slab features unique natural veining and patterns. |
| Installed Cost (Toronto) | $45 to $130 per sq. ft. installed. | $60 to $150 per sq. ft. installed. |
| Property Value | Adds property value and is popular due to its low maintenance and modern appeal. | Adds property value. |
Quartz vs Granite Cost in Ontario
In the Toronto area, understanding the cost of different surface materials is key. Based on local data for 2026, here are the details regarding installation expenses:
Quartz Price Range:
Installation runs between $45 and $130 per square foot, with typical projects landing in the $60 to $95 per square foot bracket.
Granite Price Range:
Installation costs span from $60 to $150 per square foot, with most jobs falling between $85 and $110 per square foot. Premium slabs can reach $100 to $150 per square foot.
Project Totals:
- Mid-Range Kitchens (35–45 sq ft): Quartz runs $2,800–$4,200, while granite ranges from $3,500–$5,000.
- Larger Layouts with Islands (50–70 sq ft): Quartz costs $4,000–$6,500, whereas granite totals $4,800–$7,500.
Additional Fees:
Old surface extraction generally adds an extra $200 to $400.
How to Choose Between Quartz and Granite
Questions to Ask Before Buying
- What are the primary structural differences between natural granite and engineered quartz?
- How do both materials hold up against daily wear, chipping, and cracking?
- What type of ongoing maintenance and sealing does each surface require?
- How well do granite and quartz tolerate high heat and accidental liquid spills?
- What kind of color choices and pattern selections are available for each option?
- How do the installation requirements and labor complexities differ between the two?
- What length and type of manufacturer or installer warranties come with each material?
- In what ways do granite and quartz impact the overall resale value of a home?
- What are the key environmental impacts associated with extracting and manufacturing each surface?
Get a Free Quote
Ready to start your countertop project? Request a free quote through our website or visit a GTA MARBLES showroom near you. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us on WhatsApp at +1 (647) 860-2420.
At GTA MARBLES, we proudly serve homeowners and businesses across Ontario. We specialize in custom countertop fabrication, in-house installation, and premium surfaces. Our collection includes quartz, granite, porcelain, and natural stone. With years of industry experience and expert craftsmanship, we deliver high-quality countertop solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best countertop for kitchens?
Quartz is considered the best because it is non-porous and does not require sealing. Granite is valued for its unique, natural stone patterns and heat resistance. The “best” choice depends on your priorities.
Are quartz countertops worth it?
Yes. Quartz is often considered worth the investment because it is a “set it and forget it” surface. You never need to pay for professional sealing or specialized maintenance. However, it may not be worth it if you need a surface that can handle very high heat (above 300°F). UV rays can make it lose color.
How much do quartz countertops cost?
In 2026, the average cost for installed quartz countertops ranges from $50 to $150 per square foot.
Which countertop lasts the longest?
Quartz is frequently ranked as the most durable material for kitchen countertops. Because it is engineered with resins, it is highly resistant to cracks, chips, and stains. It does not suffer from the same porosity issues as natural stone.
Do quartz countertops stain?
Quartz is stain-resistant, but not stain-proof. Liquids like wine, coffee, or oil do not soak into the material; they sit on the surface. If spills are left for a long time, they can leave a mark. Harsh chemicals, such as high-pH cleaners, can damage the resin binders.