Granite vs Quartz: Which Is Better for Iowa Homes? (2026 Guide)

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Granite vs Quartz: Which Is Better for Iowa Homes? (2026 Guide)

Everything you need to know about Granite vs Quartz in our 2026 Guide!

December 3, 2025

Dina Kahrimanovic

Granite and Quartz Countertop Expert

Granite vs Quartz: Which Is Better for Iowa Homes? (2026 Guide)

When homeowners in Des Moines plan a kitchen or bathroom remodel, one question comes up more more than any other:

“Should I choose granite or quartz countertops?”

Both choices are beautiful, durable, and high-value. But the best one for your home depends on your design style, how you cook, and how much maintenance you want to deal with.

As Des Moines’ local expert fabricator and installer, Quality Marble & Tile works with both materials daily — which means we can give you an honest, practical comparison that helps you make the right decision in 2026.

🏔️ What Is Granite?

Granite is a natural stone formed through heat and pressure beneath the earth’s surface. Because it’s 100% natural, no two slabs are ever the same.

✔ Naturally Unique

Every vein, speck, and pattern is created by nature — homeowners love this uniqueness.

✔ Heat-Resistant

One of the biggest advantages of granite: it handles heat extremely well.

✔ Organic Movement

Granite offers:

Flowing veins
Rich mineral crystals
Beautiful, unpredictable character

In 2026, bold and dramatic granite styles are trending again. See our available granite colors here.

🪨 What Is Quartz?

Quartz countertops are engineered stone, made from natural quartz combined with resins and pigments.

This process creates a highly durable, non-porous countertop with a clean, consistent appearance.

✔ No Maintenance

Quartz doesn’t need sealing and naturally resists stains and bacteria — a major benefit for busy Iowa families.

✔ Modern, Clean Look

Quartz remains the top choice for:

Minimalist designs
White kitchens
Marble-look patterns
Contemporary remodels

✔ Extremely Durable

Quartz is harder than most granite and resists scratches and spills better. Explore modern Quartz options perfect for the 2026 year here!

🥇 Granite vs Quartz: 2026 Side-by-Side Breakdown

1. Appearance

Granite:

Natural variations
Rich movement
Ideal for statement kitchens

Quartz:

Sleek and consistent
Perfect for modern and farmhouse styles
Available in thousands of colors

Winner: Depends on your design style.

2. Durability

Both are strong, but they excel in different areas.

Granite:
✔ Excellent heat resistance
✘ Needs sealing
✘ Can stain if not maintained

Quartz:
✔ Scratch- and stain-resistant
✔ No sealing
✘ Sensitive to high heat

Winner: Quartz for durability, Granite for heat.

3. Maintenance

Granite:

Seal once a year
Avoid harsh cleaners

Quartz:

Just wipe clean
No yearly upkeep

Winner: Quartz.

4. Cost in 2026

Both materials fall in similar price ranges, but it depends on color rarity.

Granite:
💲💲–💲💲💲

Quartz:
💲💲–💲💲💲

Certain quartz colors (especially marble-look) may cost more.

Winner: Tie.

5. Home Resale Value

Both are premium materials that increase home value.

Granite appeals to homeowners who love natural stone.
Quartz appeals to modern buyers wanting easy upkeep.

Winner: Tie — pick based on your market.

🌟 What Des Moines Homeowners Are Choosing in 2026

From our showroom trends:

62% choose quartz (still the #1 choice for modern kitchens)
38% choose granite (especially bold, dark, or exotic slabs)

Designs with white cabinets + marble-look quartz continue to dominate Des Moines remodels, while granite remains popular for unique, warm, earthy kitchens. View all countertop materials at Quality Marble & Tile.