The holiday season in Newmarket means bustling kitchens, hot ovens, and plenty of family gatherings. With all the activity, your kitchen countertops become the workhorse of your home—serving as both prep space and display area for holiday treats. For homeowners choosing new countertops before year-end, the debate often comes down to quartz vs granite. Which surface is best at handling the heat of the holidays and the demands of a busy kitchen?

At Grande Tile and Reno Plus, we help local families make informed choices about the materials they use in their renovations. Below, we compare quartz and granite for heat resistance and overall kitchen performance, bringing clarity to one of the most-Googled questions: “Is quartz or granite better for hot pans and busy kitchens?”

Why Countertop Heat Resistance Matters During the Holidays

Holiday entertaining means every inch of your kitchen counter sees action. Between sizzling pans, hot casserole dishes, and Canadian winter soups simmering on the stove, you need a countertop that can stand up to temperature extremes. Choosing the right material not only helps you avoid damage but also keeps your kitchen looking stunning all season long.

Quartz Countertops: Strengths, Limits, and Local Appeal

Quartz countertops are engineered from natural quartz crystals, resins, and pigments, offering a sleek, uniform appearance. Popular for their modern look and easy upkeep, quartz countertops are non-porous, making them resistant to stains and bacterial growth—ideal for busy Newmarket families during the holidays.

But how does quartz handle heat?

Heat Resistance: Quartz can tolerate brief contact with hot pans but isn’t as heat-resistant as granite. Placing a hot pan directly on quartz can cause discoloration or cracks due to the binding resins.

Best Practices: Always use trivets or hot pads under hot dishes to maintain your counter’s finish.

Other Benefits: Low maintenance, consistent colour, and perfect for families who value easy cleaning.

Granite Countertops: Timeless Beauty and Heat Durability

Granite is a natural stone with unique patterns and colour variations—a favourite in classic and contemporary Newmarket kitchens alike. Sourced from quarries and polished to perfection, granite countertops add a touch of luxury and can handle a lot when it comes to heat.

Heat Resistance: Granite is one of the most heat-resistant countertop materials, handling hot pans and bakeware without damage—perfect for busy holiday kitchens.

Best Practices: Although granite can take high temperatures, it’s still best to avoid leaving very hot pots on the same spot repeatedly, as thermal shock can occur.

Other Benefits: Each slab is unique, offers a luxurious look, and ages beautifully with proper maintenance.

Trending PAA Question: “Can You Put a Hot Pan Directly on Granite or Quartz?”

This is one of the top questions for Newmarket homeowners. In summary:

• Granite can handle hot pans better, but occasional use of trivets helps avoid long-term wear or cracking.
• Quartz is more sensitive to direct heat. Always use protection to keep your counters looking new for the holidays and beyond.

Holiday Hosting: Which Countertop Is More Practical?

When preparing for a season full of entertaining, busy cooks will appreciate:

• Easy cleanup from spills and splatters
• Confidence that holiday bakeware won’t damage your surfaces
• Stylish looks that impress your guests and complement holiday décor

Bullet Point Quick Guide:

Choose Quartz If You Want:

• A uniform, contemporary look
• Low maintenance and stain resistance
• A non-porous, hygienic food prep surface

Choose Granite If You Want:

• Natural patterns and a unique look
• Superior heat resistance for hot pots and pans
• Added home value with a timeless stone

Why Grande Tile and Reno Plus Is Your Local Countertop Expert

Whether you prefer the modern sophistication of quartz or the classic luxury of granite, our Newmarket-based team can help you choose, customize, and professionally install your dream countertop. We source only high-quality surfaces and offer expert guidance on care and maintenance, so your kitchen is ready for holiday hosting and family celebrations.

Ready for a Countertop That Handles the Heat?

Don’t let another holiday season go by with lackluster counters. Contact Grande Tile and Reno Plus for a free in-home consultation. Our specialists can help you select and install the perfect countertop for your holiday-ready kitchen—on time and on budget. Visit our website or call today to kick off your renovation before the festivities begin.