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Quartz vs Granite vs Solid Surface: What’s Best for Ontario Kitchens?

Quartz vs Granite vs Solid Surface: What’s Best for Ontario Kitchens?
6 Min Read
2025/08/31 4:36 am

When it comes to remodeling or upgrading your kitchen countertops in Ontario, Canada, the decision is not an easy one. Homeowners often find themselves torn between three of the most popular materials: Quartz, Granite, and Solid Surface. Each material comes with its own benefits, drawbacks, pricing structures, and long-term value. The right choice depends on your lifestyle, budget, and design goals.

This complete 2025 guide will help you decide by breaking down the key differences between Quartz vs Granite vs Solid Surface for Ontario kitchens. Whether you’re in Toronto, Ottawa, Mississauga, or any part of Ontario, this article will give you everything you need to make a confident choice — from durability and costs to FAQs and expert recommendations.

Why Countertops Matter for Ontario Homes

Your countertop is the hardest working surface in the kitchen. In Ontario, where kitchens are central to family life and entertaining, a countertop must balance function, durability, and beauty. The cold Canadian winters, seasonal humidity changes, and increasing demand for stylish, open-concept kitchens make the choice even more significant.

  • Value Addition: The right countertop boosts resale value of Ontario homes.
  • Durability: It must handle cooking, spills, and heavy use.
  • Maintenance: Homeowners want surfaces that are easy to clean and maintain.
  • Design: Countertops are a major style statement in any kitchen renovation.

Quartz Countertops in Ontario

What Are Quartz Countertops?

Quartz countertops are engineered stone surfaces made from crushed quartz crystals combined with resin and pigments. The result is a non-porous, highly durable, and stylish countertop that has become one of the most popular options in Ontario kitchens.

Pros of Quartz

  • Durability: Extremely resistant to scratches and cracks.
  • Non-Porous: Doesn’t require sealing and resists stains.
  • Design Variety: Comes in hundreds of colors and patterns, including marble-look designs.
  • Low Maintenance: Just soap and water cleaning, no special care needed.

Cons of Quartz

  • Heat Sensitivity: Not as heat-resistant as granite; trivets are recommended.
  • Cost: High-end quartz can be more expensive than granite.
  • Not Natural: Some homeowners prefer the unique character of natural stone.

Quartz Countertop Costs in Ontario

Quartz countertops in Ontario typically cost between $70 – $150 per square foot installed. Premium designs with custom edges may go higher, especially in cities like Toronto and Oakville.

Best Use Cases for Quartz in Ontario

  • Modern, sleek kitchens in Toronto condos.
  • Busy family kitchens in Mississauga and Brampton where stain resistance matters.
  • Luxury kitchens in Oakville and Vaughan with marble-look quartz for elegance.

Granite Countertops in Ontario

What Are Granite Countertops?

Granite countertops are natural stone surfaces cut directly from quarries and polished for residential use. Each slab is unique, giving kitchens in Ontario a luxurious and timeless look.

Pros of Granite

  • Heat Resistance: Can withstand hot pans directly on the surface.
  • Durability: Very hard and resistant to scratches.
  • Natural Beauty: Each slab has unique veining and color variations.
  • Value: Adds strong resale value to Ontario homes.

Cons of Granite

  • Maintenance: Requires sealing to prevent stains and bacteria absorption.
  • Cost: High-end exotic slabs can be very expensive.
  • Seams: Large kitchens may require multiple slabs, which create visible seams.

Granite Countertop Costs in Ontario

The price of granite countertops in Ontario typically ranges from $60 – $140 per square foot installed. Exotic or rare colors may exceed this range, especially in premium markets like downtown Toronto.

Best Use Cases for Granite in Ontario

  • Luxury kitchens in Ottawa and Toronto with high-end finishes.
  • Homes where durability and long-lasting investment matter.
  • Rustic or traditional kitchens where natural stone fits the aesthetic.

Solid Surface Countertops in Ontario

What Are Solid Surface Countertops?

Solid surface countertops (such as Corian) are man-made materials composed of acrylic and polyester blends.

TITANIUM slab,
Stones
Granite Slab Titanium
Price : Call For Price
Granite is a beautiful natural option for countertops. It is durable, heat resistant, scratch resistant, and ultra-easy to clean. Its unique appearance varies from slab
D010S Mont Blanc Porcelain Slab
Stones
Porcelain Slab D010S Mont Blanc
Price : Call For Price
Porcelain is a popular choice for its affordability, durability, and versatility. Its scratch, stain, and moisture resistance make it a no-brainer for countertops. It is
E661S Mystic Lvory Slab
Stones
Porcelain Slab E661S Mystic Lvory
Price : Call For Price
Porcelain is a popular choice for its affordability, durability, and versatility. Its scratch, stain, and moisture resistance make it a no-brainer for countertops. It is
PS602 Porcelain Slab
Stones
Porcelain Slab PS602
Price : Call For Price
Porcelain is a popular choice for its affordability, durability, and versatility. Its scratch, stain, and moisture resistance make it a no-brainer for countertops. It is
Empira Black slab
Stones
Quartz Slab 5101 Empira Black
Price : Call For Price
Black with White Veins Quartz Countertop
EM1004 Quartz Slab
Stones
Quartz Slab EM1004
Price : Call For Price
Quartz is our most common mineral that is made up of two abundant chemical elements on earth, oxygen and silicon. Unlike natural stone, quartz does not
flecha
flecha
linea
flecha
They’re non-porous and can be molded seamlessly into various shapes, making them a versatile option for Ontario kitchens.

Pros of Solid Surface

  • Seamless Look: Joints are invisible, creating a smooth design.
  • Repairable: Scratches and burns can be sanded out.
  • Variety: Available in many colors and finishes.
  • Affordable: Often cheaper than quartz or granite.

Cons of Solid Surface

  • Less Durable: Softer than quartz and granite; prone to scratches.
  • Heat Sensitivity: Can scorch or warp under hot pots.
  • Appearance: Lacks the natural beauty of stone.

Solid Surface Countertop Costs in Ontario

In Ontario, solid surface countertops cost around $50 – $100 per square foot installed, making them a mid-range option between laminate and stone.

Best Use Cases for Solid Surface in Ontario

  • Small kitchens in Toronto condos where seamless installation is ideal.
  • Budget-friendly renovations in Waterloo or Kingston.
  • Bathrooms and laundry rooms where durability demands are lower.

Quartz vs Granite vs Solid Surface: What’s Best for Ontario Kitchens?

Quartz vs Granite vs Solid Surface: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature Quartz Granite Solid Surface
Durability Very High Very High Moderate
Heat Resistance Moderate Excellent Poor
Maintenance Low Medium (sealing required) Low
Cost in Ontario $70–$150/sq. ft. $60–$140/sq. ft. $50–$100/sq. ft.
Design Variety Wide range Natural variation Moderate

FAQs About Kitchen Countertops in Ontario

Which countertop is best for Ontario kitchens?

Quartz is the best all-around option for busy families due to its durability and low maintenance. Granite is ideal for those who value natural beauty, while solid surface is a cost-effective choice for budget-friendly renovations.

Do quartz countertops add value to Ontario homes?

Yes. Quartz countertops increase home value because they’re modern, durable, and require little maintenance — features highly valued by Ontario buyers.

Are granite countertops going out of style in Ontario?

No. Granite remains a timeless option and is especially popular in luxury and traditional homes across Ontario.

What’s the cheapest countertop option in Ontario?

Laminate is the cheapest, but among the three discussed here, solid surface is the most affordable while still offering a stylish appearance.

How long do these countertops last?

With proper care:

  • Quartz: 20–30 years
  • Granite: 30+ years
  • Solid Surface: 10–20 years

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Countertop in Ontario

When comparing Quartz vs Granite vs Solid Surface countertops in Ontario, the choice ultimately comes down to your budget, style preferences, and how much maintenance you’re willing to do.

  • Choose Quartz if you want durability, low maintenance, and modern elegance.
  • Choose Granite if you love natural beauty and want maximum resale value.
  • Choose Solid Surface if you’re budget-conscious and want seamless design.

Every Ontario homeowner has unique needs, but with this guide, you’re now equipped to make the best decision for your kitchen renovation in 2025.

Get Expert Help with Kitchen Countertops in Ontario

If you’re still unsure which countertop material is right for your Ontario kitchen, our team can help. We offer free consultations, detailed cost breakdowns, and personalized recommendations based on your home, budget, and design goals.

📞 Contact Teccorp Stone Today for Your Free Ontario Kitchen Countertop Consultation

 

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