Is Quartz Stronger or Harder than Granite?

Technically, Quartz is slightly harder, rating a consistent 7 on the Mohs Scale, while Granite rates between 6 and 7. Both are highly scratch-resistant, but Granite is superior in handling impact heat, while Quartz can scorch due to its resin content.

Can I Use Quartz or Granite Countertops Outdoors?

Granite is an excellent choice for outdoor kitchens, as it is naturally UV-stable and will not fade. Quartz is not suitable for outdoor use because the resins used to bind the stone will yellow and fade when exposed to direct sunlight.

Is Quartz Cheaper or More Expensive than Granite?

While entry-level Granite (Level 1) is often the cheapest option, Quartz pricing is more predictable and mid-to-high range. Exotic Granite slabs can be significantly more expensive than premium Quartz, making the total cost highly dependent on the chosen slab.

May 26, 2021

Quartz vs Granite Countertops: Massachusetts Fabricator's Guide

Granite Guy Inc. · 5 minute read

Written by Granite Guy Inc., Southborough, Massachusetts
Published: January 2026

After 30 years fabricating countertops across MetroWest and Greater Boston, I've installed both materials in thousands of Massachusetts homes.

The main difference is simple: granite is 100% natural stone mined from the earth, while quartz countertops are engineered stone made from 90% ground quartz mixed with resins and pigments.

This fundamental difference drives everything else. With granite, you're working within nature's palette—unique patterns and colors that formed over millions of years.

With quartz, manufacturers can create virtually any color or pattern, constantly trying to replicate what granite, marble, and other natural stones achieve naturally. While they're getting better at mimicking natural stone, they're still chasing what nature creates effortlessly.

Quartz's biggest advantage—and most marketed feature—is maintenance. Because it's non-porous, it never needs sealing. Granite requires periodic sealing, which is a simple step that only takes a few minutes.

If you're already leaning toward quartz, check out our guide to the best quartz kitchen countertops in Massachusetts.

![Quartz and granite countertop slabs side by side in showroom] IMAGE PLACEMENT: Side-by-side comparison shot of quartz and granite slabs in your showroom

⚖️ Quick Comparison: Granite vs Quartz for Massachusetts Homes

Heat Resistance: Granite wins—handles temperatures up to 1,200°F. Quartz resins can scorch at just 300°F.

Outdoor Use: Granite only—UV rays don't harm it. Quartz fades and deteriorates in sunlight.

Maintenance: Quartz wins—non-porous, never needs sealing. Granite requires periodic sealing.

Patterns: Granite offers nature's unique patterns. Quartz provides consistent, engineered patterns with unlimited color options.

Versatility: Granite works anywhere—indoors, outdoors, high-heat areas. Quartz is limited to indoor use with careful heat protection.

🌨️ Why Massachusetts Weather Matters for Your Countertop Choice

Sealing timing matters here. Granite sealed during humid July days may not cure properly. We recommend sealing in spring or fall when humidity drops—a detail most national guides miss.

Outdoor applications are where granite wins decisively in Massachusetts. From Framingham to Wellesley, Natick to Hopkinton, we see more homeowners adding outdoor kitchens, grill surrounds, and patio bars.

These need to handle our weather year-round.

![Outdoor granite kitchen countertop in Massachusetts backyard] IMAGE PLACEMENT: Outdoor granite installation you've completed—grill surround or outdoor kitchen

❄️ What New England Weather Does to Quartz

UV exposure, freeze-thaw cycles, and coastal salt air will destroy quartz resins over time. We've replaced outdoor quartz installations that homeowners chose against our advice.

Granite handles all New England weather without complaint. It's the only choice for outdoor countertop applications in Massachusetts.

🔥 Heat Resistance: What Massachusetts Home Cooks Need to Know

This matters if you actually cook.

Granite was formed by volcanic heat and handles temperatures up to 1,200°F. You can set a hot pot directly on the surface. We still recommend trivets out of habit, but granite won't scorch or discolor.

Quartz contains polymer resins that begin to melt or scorch at temperatures as low as 300°F. A hot pan pulled straight from the stovetop can leave permanent burn marks, discoloration, and even cracks.

Trivets aren't optional with quartz—they're mandatory. Learn more about the causes and prevention of cracking in quartz countertops.

![Hot pan on granite countertop demonstrating heat resistance] IMAGE PLACEMENT: Action shot of hot cookware on granite—or before/after of quartz heat damage if you have one

🧽 Maintenance: The Sealing Question

Quartz is non-porous, meaning liquids can't penetrate the surface. It never needs sealing.

Soap and water handle daily cleaning, and it resists wine, coffee, and oil stains exceptionally well. Here's our complete guide on how to clean quartz countertops.

Granite is porous and requires periodic sealing. The sealing requirement sounds more intimidating than it actually is—it's a simple step that only takes a few minutes.

Learn how to seal granite countertops properly. Skip the sealing and you risk permanent stains from oils and acids.

🛠️ What We Actually See in Our Shop

Homeowners who forget to seal granite for years usually still have counters that look fine, especially darker granites.

But proper sealing protects your investment. It takes minutes and lasts months.

💰 Quartz vs Granite Countertop Pricing in Massachusetts

Think of quartz like a commodity—manufactured using the same process, though suppliers create different pricing tiers.

Natural stone is more like artisanal goods—each slab comes from different quarries around the world, with unique mining conditions, transport costs, and availability. The pricing truly reflects that rarity and character.

Both typically range from $55-$150 per square foot installed in the Greater Boston area. Ultra-rare granite colors like Blue Bahia can reach a couple hundred dollars or more per square foot.

💡 Why Stone Pricing Isn't One-Size-Fits-All

I know you came here for a price per square foot. Here's why it's not that simple:

Sourcing: Suppliers vary, and we shop for the best value
Complexity: Curves, waterfalls, and integrated sinks add labor
Waste: Intricate shapes mean less efficient cuts
In-house inventory vs special order: Stock slabs get best pricing because we buy bulk
Supply and demand: Popular colors with limited availability cost more

That's why we need details about your project. Drawings, plans, or a visit to our showroom help us give you accurate pricing.

![Granite slabs in showroom showing variety of colors and patterns] IMAGE PLACEMENT: Your showroom slab yard showing variety of granite options

🏠 What MetroWest and Greater Boston Homeowners Are Choosing

Until late 2024, quartz dominated more than half the countertop market—bigger than all other materials combined.

But we're seeing preferences shift. More Massachusetts homeowners are returning to granite and other natural stones for kitchens, especially those who cook seriously or want authentic natural materials.

Based on conversations with suppliers and others in the business, we're seeing this same trend across Massachusetts.

📊 The Pattern We See After 30 Years

After installations across Framingham, Natick, Wellesley, Hopkinton, Sudbury, and throughout MetroWest, clear patterns emerge:

Quartz dominates in bathrooms and laundry rooms where the zero-maintenance appeal matters most.

Granite remains the top choice for homeowners who cook seriously or want a natural slab with character.

For outdoor kitchens and bars throughout Massachusetts, granite is the only choice between these two materials.

Some homeowners also compare quartz vs porcelain countertops—both engineered options with different strengths.

![Beautiful granite kitchen island in Massachusetts home] IMAGE PLACEMENT: Recent kitchen installation—granite island with waterfall edge or similar showpiece

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is granite or quartz better for Massachusetts kitchens?

A. For serious cooks, granite wins because of heat resistance and outdoor versatility. For low-maintenance households, quartz works well indoors. Both perform well in our climate when properly installed.

Q. Can I use quartz countertops outdoors in Massachusetts?

A. No. UV exposure and New England weather will damage quartz resins over time. For outdoor kitchens, grills, or patio bars in Massachusetts, granite is your only choice between these materials.

Q. How much do granite and quartz countertops cost in Massachusetts?

A. Both typically range from $55-$150 per square foot installed. Ultra-rare granite colors like Blue Bahia can reach a couple hundred dollars or more per square foot.

Q. Does granite really need to be sealed every year?

A. Granite needs periodic sealing—the frequency depends on the specific stone and usage. It's a simple process that takes just a few minutes. Learn how to seal granite countertops

Q. Can you put hot pans on quartz countertops?

A. Never. Quartz can melt, discolor, and crack at temperatures as low as 300°F. Trivets are mandatory. Granite handles heat up to 1,200°F without damage.

Q. Which material adds more value to my Massachusetts home?

A. Both add significant value when properly installed. Granite appeals to buyers who want natural stone character. Quartz attracts those prioritizing low maintenance. Quality installation matters more than the specific material choice.

Q. Is quartz or granite better for busy families?

A. Quartz requires less maintenance since it never needs sealing. But busy families often generate more heat from cooking, where granite's heat resistance becomes valuable. Consider your actual cooking habits, not just maintenance preferences.

Q. What's the difference between quartz and quartzite?

A. Completely different materials. Quartz is engineered stone made with resins. Quartzite is 100% natural stone, harder than granite, and requires sealing. The similar names cause constant confusion. Learn the difference between quartz and quartzite

📍 Visit Our Southborough Showroom

Reading comparisons helps, but nothing beats seeing full slabs side by side.

Our Southborough showroom on Route 9 has both granite and quartz slabs in stock. Come touch the surfaces, feel the weight, and see how different finishes catch the light.

We've been fabricating countertops for Massachusetts homeowners since 1995—serving Framingham, Natick, Wellesley, Hopkinton, Sudbury, Ashland, Marlborough, Northborough, Westborough, Shrewsbury, and communities throughout MetroWest and Greater Boston.

Whether you're leaning toward granite, quartz, or something else entirely, we'll help you find the right stone for how you actually live.

Visit our showroom: Route 9, Southborough, MA
Call us: 508-460-7900
Get a free quote: graniteguyinc.com/contact

![Granite Guy Inc showroom exterior in Southborough Massachusetts] IMAGE PLACEMENT: Your showroom exterior or interior shot with slabs visible

Quartz vs Granite Countertops: Massachusetts Fabricator's Guide

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