We are doing a total remodel of our kitchen. Depending on whom we talk to, some are very opposed to granite countertops, while others say as long as it is sealed it would be fine. Is granite too hard to maintain? Our children are grown if that weighs in on your advice.
This has become a huge debate in recent years. Granite and Quartz are both excellent choices for your new kitchen but, the granite does have to be sealed as it is a porous stone. Initially this should be done for you by your fabricator but you will have to do the maintainance. Consult your salesman for specific product details as to how often they recommend this be done.
Other than sealing the granite, there virtually is no other maintainance. It's pretty durable. Advice I've been given but never put to the test; don't leave greasy pizza boxes on it & don't leave a crock pot cooking on it without a barrier between the crock and the counter.
One thing you may want to consider (depending on your area) quartz is probably quite a bit more expensive than granite.
You can find granite tiles at pretty much every place that sells tile
Granite tile will cut countertop price almost in half when compared to full slab.
As to sealing the granite. You can do it yourself with a Penetrating sealer that is applied with a sponge. You can pick up a bottle at home depot for about $30 And it has a 20 year warranty
