Quartz vs. Granite

When you’re planning a kitchen renovation in the Fox Valley, the “Quartz vs. Granite” debate is almost inevitable. Both materials offer stunning beauty and a high-end feel, but for the modern Wisconsin homeowner, the choice often comes down to lifestyle.

At Quest Interiors, we’ve seen thousands of slabs move through our showrooms and fabrication facilities. While we love the natural allure of granite, we find ourselves increasingly recommending quartz as the superior choice for a busy Fond du Lac kitchen countertop, a stylish Appleton kitchen, or a high-traffic Oshkosh countertop.

Looking for a fast turnaround? Many of our countertops can be installed next week and completed in just one day!

The Maintenance Myth: Granite vs. Quartz

The biggest difference between these two heavyweights is how much work they require after the installation crew leaves.

• Granite is a natural stone. Because it is formed in the earth, it is inherently porous. To prevent liquids like red wine or olive oil from seeping into the stone and causing permanent damage, granite must be professionally sealed upon installation and resealed every 12 to 18 months.

• Quartz is an engineered stone. It is composed of roughly 90–94% crushed natural quartz crystals mixed with high-performance resins. This process creates a non-porous surface.

Because quartz is non-porous, it never needs to be sealed. You can spill coffee, lemon juice, or wine on a Quest Interiors quartz surface and simply wipe it away with a damp cloth. For the homeowner who wants a “set it and forget it” solution, quartz is the winner.

Superior Stain and Bacteria Resistance

In a kitchen, hygiene is just as important as aesthetics. Granite’s porous nature means that if the sealant wears down, the stone can actually harbor bacteria and mold within its microscopic crevices.

Quartz, however, is a dream for the health-conscious cook. Its dense, non-absorbent surface is naturally resistant to the growth of odor-causing bacteria and mildew. When you choose brands like Viatera or Daltile, you are investing in a surface that is as sanitary as it is beautiful.

Elite Brands: Cambria, Viatera, and More

At Quest Interiors, we don’t just provide “standard” quartz. We partner with industry leaders to ensure your Appleton, Fond du Lac, or Oshkosh home features the best materials on the market.

• Cambria Countertops: Proudly American-made, Cambria is the gold standard for luxury quartz. Their designs offer deep veining and organic movement that perfectly mimic high-end marble and granite without any of the maintenance headaches.

• Viatera: Known for its immense durability and trend-setting color palettes, Viatera by LX Hausys is a favorite for those seeking a sophisticated, contemporary look.

• Daltile: Offering a massive range of styles, Daltile’s quartz provides versatility for every budget and design aesthetic.

• Inspired Quartz: For those seeking a unique, designer-forward look, our Inspired Quartz collection offers hand-picked styles that elevate any space.

The Quest Advantage: Laser Template and In-House Fabrication

Choosing the right material is only half the battle; the quality of the installation is what makes or breaks a kitchen. This is where Quest Interiors stands apart from the “big box” stores.

We utilize state-of-the-art laser template technology for every project. Instead of using old-school wooden sticks or cardboard to measure your cabinets, our technicians use digital lasers to create a 3D map of your kitchen. This ensures that every curve of your wall and every corner of your cabinetry is accounted for with sub-millimeter precision.

Once the digital map is created, the work moves to our in-house fabrication facility. By fabricating our own slabs locally, we maintain total control over the quality and craftsmanship. Whether it’s a complex edge profile or a seamless waterfall island, our local craftsmen ensure your Oshkosh countertop or Appleton remodel fits perfectly the first time.

Fast Results for Your Fox Valley Home

We know that being without a kitchen is a major inconvenience. That is why we have streamlined our process to be as efficient as possible.

• Speed: Many of our in-stock quartz countertops can be installed next week.

• Efficiency: Most installations are completed in just one day, meaning you can start cooking on your new Cambria or Viatera surfaces by dinner time.

Final Verdict: Is Quartz Right for You?

If you value:

1. Zero Maintenance: No sealing, ever.

2. Stain Resistance: Total peace of mind against spills.

3. Consistency: The slab you see in the showroom is exactly what will be installed.

4. Hygiene: A non-porous surface that stays clean.

…then quartz is the clear winner for your next kitchen project.

Start Your Transformation Today

Ready to see the beauty of Cambria, Viatera, and Daltile in person? Visit one of our showrooms in Fond du Lac, Oshkosh, or Appleton to explore the largest selection of quartz in the Fox Valley. Our team will guide you through the design process, from the initial laser template to the final in-house fabrication.

Click here to schedule your free design consultation with Quest Interiors!