When planning a kitchen or bathroom upgrade, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is selecting the right countertop material. Not only does it need to look beautiful, it also has to stand up to the demands of daily life. At Coastal Stone & Cabinetry, we work with homeowners across Fairhope, Daphne, Gulf Shores and surrounding areas to design and install countertops that perfectly balance style and function.
Granite, quartz and marble are three of the most popular choices for high-end countertops, each offering unique benefits. Understanding the differences can help you decide which is best for your space.
Granite: Natural Beauty and Durability
Granite is a natural stone known for its rich colors, striking patterns and incredible durability. Each slab is one-of-a-kind, giving your kitchen or bathroom a truly custom look. It resists heat and scratches, making it an excellent choice for busy kitchens where both aesthetics and performance matter.
Granite does require periodic sealing to maintain its resistance to stains, but many homeowners consider that a small trade-off for the beauty and long-lasting nature of this material. You can explore more about our granite offerings in the countertops and granite section of our site.
Quartz: Low Maintenance and Versatile Design
Quartz countertops are engineered using crushed natural quartz mixed with resins and pigments, creating a surface that is non-porous and easy to maintain. Unlike granite, quartz never needs sealing, making it ideal for homeowners looking for a low-maintenance option.
Quartz offers exceptional consistency in color and pattern, so it’s easy to match your countertops with cabinetry, flooring and backsplashes. Whether you prefer a subtle look or something bold, quartz can be customized to suit your design vision. Learn more about our full range of materials and services on our services page.
Marble: Timeless Elegance
Marble has been a symbol of luxury for centuries, known for its soft veining and classic beauty. While it’s not as hard as granite or quartz, marble’s cool surface is perfect for baking enthusiasts and those who love a refined aesthetic.
It’s important to note that marble is more porous, so it can stain or etch if not properly maintained. Many homeowners choose marble for areas where they want a showstopping surface, such as a kitchen island or a bathroom vanity. You can see examples of marble installations in our completed projects gallery.
Matching Countertops with the Rest of Your Space
The right countertop should complement your cabinetry, flooring and overall style. Coastal Stone & Cabinetry also offers cabinetry solutions, so we can help you coordinate the perfect combination of finishes, colors and textures. By working with one team for all elements of your project, you can ensure a seamless design from start to finish.
Making the Right Choice for Your Home
Choosing between granite, quartz and marble comes down to your lifestyle, design preferences and maintenance expectations. Granite offers natural variation and toughness, quartz delivers low-maintenance versatility and marble brings timeless elegance. No matter which you choose, Coastal Stone & Cabinetry can guide you through every step, helping you create a space that reflects your vision and enhances your home.
