Outdoor kitchens are one of the most popular upgrades we see among Texas homeowners. With our long summers and plenty of backyard gatherings, an outdoor cooking space isn’t just a luxury — it’s an extension of the home.
One of the first decisions people face when planning an outdoor kitchen is which countertop material will stand up best to the Texas heat. We install both granite and quartz every day, but when it comes to outdoor spaces, there are some important differences to know.
Why Granite Performs Outdoors
Granite has always been a go-to material for outdoor kitchens because it’s one of the most durable natural stones available. It can handle high temperatures, direct sunlight, and even the occasional Texas storm without losing its strength. Each slab is unique, which means no two outdoor kitchens look the same. Granite does need sealing once a year, but that maintenance is simple compared to the years of durability it provides.
In fact, darker granite colors often hold up especially well outdoors because they resist fading in the sun. If you’re considering options, our granite installation team can walk you through the most popular choices for backyard kitchens, bar tops, and grill surrounds. For more care tips, you can also read our guide on how to maintain granite countertops.
The Challenges of Quartz Outside
Quartz countertops are engineered to be low-maintenance and stain-resistant, which is why they’re so popular for indoor kitchens. However, the resins that make quartz non-porous don’t mix well with direct sunlight. Over time, UV rays can cause discoloration and even warping. That’s why we typically recommend quartz for indoor projects, where its consistency and ease of care shine.
Granite vs. Quartz in Texas Heat
When we compare granite and quartz head-to-head outdoors, granite comes out on top in nearly every category. It handles heat, resists UV damage, and offers a natural look that fits right in with outdoor living spaces. Quartz may be easier to maintain indoors, but outside it simply can’t match granite’s resilience.
For inspiration, take a look at our work and you’ll see why so many of our customers in Arlington, Granbury, and across DFW choose granite when they’re building an outdoor kitchen.
Cost-Effective Options with Remnants
Outdoor kitchens often don’t require large amounts of stone. That’s why we frequently suggest using granite remnants for side counters, prep stations, or outdoor bar tops. It’s a cost-effective way to add beauty and durability without purchasing a full slab. If you want to understand why granite makes sense as a long-term investment, see our post on granite countertops and home value.
Making the Right Choice
At the end of the day, both granite and quartz have their place in home design — but in the Texas sun, granite is almost always the smarter outdoor choice. With proper sealing and care, it will look beautiful for years and handle everything from cookouts to summer heatwaves.
If you’re planning an outdoor kitchen, we encourage you to browse our slab yards in Arlington and Granbury. You can also check out our guide to granite slabs for outdoor kitchens to see which stones perform best in outdoor spaces. Our team is here to help you design an outdoor kitchen that not only looks great but also stands up to the Texas heat.
