Granite countertops are mined from pure stone. The stone is sawn into slabs or cut into tiles, then polished for installation. Quartz countertops are manufactured from crushed quartz, mixed with pigment for coloration and resin as a binder. The quartz content is typically 92% to 94%.

Both types have their strong point. Granite shows slight, natural variations in hue. Colors range from earth tones to blues, greens, and roses. The coloration of quartz is more consistent, and it is available in a wider array of colors because pigments are added to the quartz.

While natural granite is strikingly beautiful, it needs to be sealed at installation and resealed regularly. DuBois Granite & Quartz uses an impregnator and zeta seal. With proper care and maintenance, seals may last 20+ years before needing resealing.

Quartz doesnโ€™t require this level of care. In addition, natural stone countertops, including granite, slate, and sandstone, stain quite easily. Granite that has been sealed with a resin-based product during manufacturing will be more resistant to trouble than standard granite, but still not as resistant as quartz. Both have a lifespan of 25-50 years, depending on the level of care they are given and how they are used [source].

Granite vs. Quartz

Granite countertops are mined from pure stone. Quartz countertops are considered engineered stone because they are manufactured from crushed quartz, pigments for color, and a resin binder. Granite shows slight, natural variations in hue. Colors range from earth tones to blues, greens, and roses. The coloration of quartz is more consistent, and it is available in a wider array of colors.

In terms of durability, engineered quartz has an advantage over granite because it is non-porous and does not require sealing. Granite will need to be sealed at installation and may require resealing. Granite that has been sealed with a resin-based product during manufacturing will be more resistant to trouble than standard granite, but still not as resistant as quartz. Both have a lifespan of 25-50 years, depending on the level of care they are given and how they are used.

Best Countertop Options for Busy Families

Life gets busyโ€”between school schedules, sports, work, and everything in between, your kitchen takes a beating. For families constantly on the go, countertops need to do more than just look goodโ€”they have to stand up to daily wear, spills, heat, and heavy use and support a safe, healthy home environment.

Hereโ€™s a practical guide to the best countertop options for busy households, including durability, maintenance, and important health considerations.

Quartz: The Low-Maintenance Workhorse

If you want a countertop that can keep up with your lifestyle without constant upkeep, quartz is hard to beat.

Quartz is engineered to be non-porous, meaning it resists stains from things like juice, coffee, wine, and spaghetti sauce. It doesnโ€™t require sealing, and cleaning is as simple as soap and water.

Why families love it:

  • No sealing or special maintenance

  • Highly resistant to stains and scratches

  • A non-porous surface helps prevent bacterial buildup

  • Durable enough for daily chaos

Best for: Families who want a worry-free surface that always looks clean and polished.

Granite: Natural Beauty That Holds Up

Granite remains a favorite for a reasonโ€”itโ€™s a natural stone that offers both beauty and strength.

When properly sealed, granite is very resistant to heat and scratches, making it great for busy kitchens. While it does require occasional resealing, many families find the trade-off worth it for its unique, natural appearance.

Why families love it:

  • Each slab is one-of-a-kind

  • Handles heat well (hot pans are less of a concern)

  • Strong and long-lasting

Things to consider:

  • Needs periodic sealing to maintain stain resistance and hygiene

Best for: Families who want natural stone and donโ€™t mind minimal upkeep.

Quartzite: The Best of Both Worlds

Quartzite is often confused with quartz, but itโ€™s actually a natural stone. It combines the elegance of marble with the durability of granite.

Itโ€™s extremely hard and resistant to scratches, making it ideal for high-traffic kitchens. Like granite, it does need sealing.

Why families love it:

  • High-end, natural look

  • Very durable and scratch-resistant

  • Handles busy kitchen activity well

Best for: Families who want a natural, upscale look with strong performance.

Countertop comparison guide from DuBois Granite & Quartz, titled 'The Stone Fabricators', comparing granite, quartz, quartzite, marble, and soapstone with categories such as price, durability, maintenance, composition, scratches, and color options.