Let's Talk Quartz: There's Good Reason To

Granite no longer reigns. The most popular countertop material remodelers say they’re using is quartz, then followed by granite.

In 2015, 89 percent of National Kitchen and Bath Association members said they used quartz in their kitchen remodeling projects. Meanwhile, the popularity of granite has been declining over the last four years.

Quartz’ durability is winning over more fans; it’s known as being more resistant to heat and scratches. Plus, the resemblance to marble and its abundant color variations is also making it a more appealing option, says Mandie Maguire, an interior designer and broker associate with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services in Park Ridge, Ill.

Barbara Nazzaro, owner of A Simply Staged Home in the Boston area, also notes a trend toward more home owners opting for simple “waves” in the quartz countertop design finishes, moving away from the small fleck designs that have dominated.