Granite and quartz countertops can be similar in price, but the cost of each depends on the specific material and project. Basic granite can sometimes be less expensive than quartz, while premium or exotic granite can cost significantly more. Likewise, higher-end quartz designs and specialty colors can increase the overall price.

The total cost of a countertop project can also vary based on the material selection, slab size, thickness, edge profile, sink cutouts, backsplash, installation, and other fabrication requirements.

In general: If you’re comparing similar quality and style, granite and quartz often fall within a comparable price range. The best way to determine the difference is to compare the specific slabs you’re considering.

Tip: When comparing countertop prices, make sure you’re comparing the same scope of work, including fabrication and installation—not just the price per square foot of the material.

Yes. A hot cup of coffee or a warm mug can generally be placed directly on a quartz countertop during normal everyday use. However, quartz is heat resistant, not heat proof.

For very hot items such as pots, pans, baking dishes, or cookware directly from the oven or stovetop, we recommend using a trivet or heat-resistant pad. Extreme or prolonged heat can potentially damage the resin used in quartz, causing discoloration, cracking, or other surface damage.

Tip: For everyday items like coffee cups, plates, and warm dishes, quartz is designed to handle normal household use. For extremely hot cookware, always use a protective barrier.

Yes, an air fryer or Crock-Pot can generally sit on a quartz countertop, but we recommend placing a heat-resistant mat or trivet underneath the appliance while it is operating.

Quartz countertops are heat resistant, not heat proof. Air fryers, Crock-Pots, toaster ovens, and similar appliances can produce concentrated or prolonged heat that may potentially damage the resin in quartz, causing discoloration, cracking, or other surface damage.

We also recommend using a trivet or heat-resistant pad when removing the hot inner pot, basket, tray, or other heated component from the appliance. Do not place these extremely hot components directly onto the quartz surface.

Tip: A hot coffee cup or warm dish is generally fine for everyday use, but for appliances and cookware that generate significant or prolonged heat, using a protective barrier is the safest way to help protect your quartz countertop.

Quartz countertops are highly durable and designed for everyday use, but they are not indestructible. The following can potentially damage the surface:

• Extreme Heat – Quartz is heat resistant, but not heat proof. Placing extremely hot pots, pans, baking dishes, air fryer baskets, Crock-Pot inserts, or other hot cookware directly on the surface can cause discoloration, cracking, or damage to the resin. Always use a trivet or heat-resistant pad.
• Sudden Temperature Changes – Extreme or concentrated temperature changes can create thermal stress and potentially cause cracking. Avoid placing very hot cookware directly on a cold quartz surface.
• Harsh Chemicals – Strong chemicals such as oven cleaners, drain cleaners, paint removers, and concentrated solvents can damage or discolor the surface. Use products recommended for quartz and avoid exposing the countertop to harsh chemicals.
• Sharp or Heavy Objects – Quartz is highly scratch resistant, but dragging heavy or sharp objects across the surface can potentially cause scratches, chips, or damage. Always lift heavy appliances and objects rather than dragging them.
• Hard Impacts – Dropping heavy objects, particularly on corners, edges, or seams, can cause chips or cracks. Edges are generally more vulnerable to impact than the main countertop surface.
• Prolonged Exposure to Certain Chemicals or Substances – Strong acids, solvents, highly alkaline cleaners, and other aggressive substances can potentially affect the finish or appearance of quartz if left on the surface for an extended period.

Tip: For long-lasting quartz countertops, use cutting boards and trivets, clean spills promptly, avoid harsh chemicals, and never place extremely hot cookware directly on the surface. With normal care and proper use, quartz can provide many years of beautiful, durable performance.

Quartz countertops are easy to clean and maintain. For everyday cleaning, use a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge with warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap, such as Dawn.

• Daily Cleaning: Wipe the surface with warm water and mild dish soap, then dry with a clean cloth.
• Food & Grease: Mild dish soap works well for removing everyday food residue, grease, and spills.
• Dried Spills: Allow the area to soak briefly with warm, soapy water before gently wiping it clean. Avoid scraping with sharp objects.
• Stubborn Spots: Use a quartz-safe cleaner and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Avoid Abrasive Products: Do not use steel wool, abrasive scrubbers, scouring powders, or other products that can dull or scratch the surface.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Stay away from oven cleaners, drain cleaners, paint removers, strong solvents, and other aggressive chemicals unless specifically approved by the quartz manufacturer.

Tip: Quartz does not require sealing, and routine cleaning with mild soap and water is typically all that’s needed to keep your countertop looking beautiful.

Yes, Dawn dish soap is generally safe to use on quartz countertops when diluted with water. It is a mild cleaning option that can effectively remove grease, food residue, and everyday spills without requiring harsh chemicals.

For routine cleaning, mix a small amount of Dawn with warm water and wipe the countertop with a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge. Follow with a clean, damp cloth if needed and dry the surface to prevent water spots.

Avoid using abrasive scrubbers, harsh chemicals, oven cleaners, bleach-based products, or strong solvents unless specifically approved by your quartz manufacturer.

Tip: For everyday quartz countertop care, mild dish soap and water are usually all you need.

Yes, Clorox Disinfecting Wipes are generally safe for quartz countertops when used according to the product directions. For everyday cleaning, however, mild dish soap and water remain the preferred option

No, quartz countertops generally do not need to be sealed. Engineered quartz is a nonporous material, which means liquids and everyday spills are not readily absorbed into the surface.

Unlike natural stone countertops such as granite, marble, and quartzite, quartz does not require routine sealing to maintain its resistance to staining and moisture.

For everyday care, simply clean the surface with a soft cloth or sponge and a mild, quartz-safe cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, and products that are not recommended by the quartz manufacturer.

Tip: Quartz is low maintenance because you do not have to schedule periodic sealing. With proper everyday care, your quartz countertop can maintain its appearance and performance for many years.

Quartz remains one of the most popular countertop materials, but the industry is evolving toward silica-free and reduced-silica alternatives, driven in part by concerns about occupational silica exposure during fabrication—making silica-free surfaces an important part of the future of countertops.

Quartz countertops are widely used in kitchens and bathrooms and are safe for normal household use when properly manufactured and installed. However, traditional engineered quartz contains crystalline silica, which can create a serious health risk for workers when respirable silica dust is generated during cutting, grinding, drilling, or fabrication.

The concern is primarily associated with occupational exposure to airborne silica dust during fabrication, rather than normal use of an installed quartz countertop. Prolonged exposure to respirable crystalline silica can cause serious respiratory diseases, including silicosis, and has been linked to other health risks.

This is one reason the countertop industry is increasingly moving toward silica-free and reduced-silica countertop materials. Newer silica-free engineered surfaces can provide the look, durability, and low-maintenance benefits homeowners want while helping reduce the occupational hazards associated with fabricating traditional quartz.

The future of countertops is moving toward safer, silica-free materials, giving homeowners and countertop professionals more options for beautiful, durable surfaces without the same level of crystalline silica exposure associated with traditional quartz fabrication.

Cambria is widely regarded as one of the leading premium quartz countertop brands, known for its high-quality designs, realistic veining, durability, consistent manufacturing, and extensive selection of colors and patterns. Cambria is also proudly made in the USA and offers a strong warranty, making it a popular choice for homeowners looking for a premium quartz countertop for their kitchen or bathroom.

The answer is industry standard 2cm (¾’’ thick) However, the edge profile doubled up at 1.5’’ (the exposed edge profile that we see, is 1.5’’ thick) This is the same specifications as custom slabs!

Prefab comes in polished mostly, however there are a few prefab colors that are available in a honed or leather finish.

Written by Greg @ choicegraniteinc.com https://choicegraniteinc.com