When you're building a new home, every design decision matters—from flooring to fixtures to the countertops that will serve as the heart of your kitchen. Two of the most popular options for today’s new homebuyers are granite and quartz. Both materials offer style, durability, and long-term value—but which is right for your lifestyle?
If you're navigating the selections process during your new home construction journey, here’s what you need to know about granite and quartz countertops, along with their pros, cons, and care tips.
🪨 What Is Granite?
Granite is a natural product, made by Mother Nature. It is mined from quarries and cut into slabs for use in homes. Its organic, one-of-a-kind patterns give each kitchen a distinct look—no two granite countertops are exactly the same. Color variation, veining, surface pitting, sprawling, porosity, and fissures are characteristics of granite.
In new home construction, granite is a favorite for buyers seeking a timeless, elegant feel with natural character.
Granite Care Tips:
- Seal at least once a year to help prevent staining and absorption.
- Wipe up spills quickly, especially acidic liquids like wine or citrus.
- Clean with mild soap and water—avoid abrasive cleaners.
🧪 What Is Quartz?
Quartz countertops are engineered stone, made from a blend of crushed quartz, resins, and pigments. This process results in a sleek, consistent appearance with a wide range of color options.
For new homebuyers who want a modern, low-maintenance option, quartz delivers beauty and convenience in one package.
Quartz Care Tips:
- No sealing required—quartz is non-porous.
- Wipe up spills quickly, especially acidic liquids like wine or citrus.
- Clean with mild soap and water—avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Never place hot items directly on quartz. Use trivets for hot pans to prevent surface damage.
- Do not cut directly on the surface to avoid chips and scratches.
🔍 Granite vs. Quartz: Which Countertop Should You Choose in Your New Home?
Visual Appeal
Each granite slab is very unique and may vary greatly slab to slab. Quartz tends to be more consistent in its coloring and patterns from slab to slab.
Durability
Natural granite is very strong but it can chip under heavy impact. It also naturally contains small pits and divots. Quartz is very durable and chip-resistant with normal use and care.
Maintenance
Granite requires annual sealing unlike quartz which does not. Both can be cleaned daily with mild soap and water.
Heat Resistance
While you should always use trivets with all countertops, granite tends to be more heat resistant than quartz.
Cost
Both materials can vary from reasonable pricing to very high pricing. For granite, pricing depends on the stone’s rarity. For quartz, pricing is negatively impacted by the engineering process.
Style Trends
Granite works well with traditional and earthly décor. Quartz compliments sleek and modern styles.
🏡 Countertops That Fit Your New Home Lifestyle
As you work with your builder or design studio team to personalize your new home, choosing the right countertops is key to both form and function.
Granite may be ideal if you love natural beauty and don’t mind occasional maintenance.
Quartz is perfect for homeowners who want a consistent look and easy upkeep.
At the end of the day, there’s no wrong choice—just the right fit for your lifestyle and kitchen goals.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between granite and quartz is an important step in designing your new home. Both materials offer long-lasting beauty, durability, and value. Whether you're drawn to the timeless appeal of natural stone or the sleek performance of engineered quartz, the right countertop can make your new kitchen truly stand out.
All of Scott Communities’ homes come with granite kitchen countertops included. We offer a wide variety of granite and quartz upgrades to find your perfect match. Contact us today to learn more about personalizing your new home at our Design Studio.
Learn more about Scott Communities’ Customer Care & Homeowner Maintenance.