Quartz vs granite vs marble — which should I pick?

Quartz is the most practical for kitchens — non-porous, never needs sealing, uniform look. Granite offers unique patterns and high heat resistance but needs sealing. Marble is stunning but soft and stains easily; better for bathrooms or low-use bars than primary kitchen prep.

How much do quartz countertops cost in Houston?

Installed quartz typically runs $50–$150 per square foot in Houston, depending on brand, color and edge details. A standard 40 sq ft kitchen counter lands around $2,000–$6,000.

How long does countertop installation take?

From template to install: 10–14 days typical. Template day takes 2-3 hours, fabrication runs 5–10 business days, install day takes 3-6 hours. Sinks, faucets, and backsplash happen after install.

Do I need to empty my cabinets before countertop install?

Yes, top drawers and upper cabinets. Lower cabinets can stay full — we only need access for sink hookups. Expect the kitchen to be out of commission for the install day plus 1 day for plumbing reconnection.

Service

Countertops in Houston, TX

April 21, 2026 · Updated November 2, 2026

By Debbie McKelvey, Co-Founder & Principal Designer · 30+ years remodeling Houston homes

Quick answer

Quartz, granite, marble, soapstone, and butcher block countertop installation across the Houston metro. Templated, fabricated, and installed by our long-standing fabricator partners. Free in-home consultations: (281) 499-0581.

Countertops are where function meets first impression — and where small mistakes become daily annoyances. We work with the best fabricators in Houston for quartz, granite, marble, soapstone, and specialty surfaces. Templated, fabricated, and installed by people who understand seam placement, edge profiles, undermount sink reveals, and what holds up to red wine, turmeric, and a busy family.

Countertops by McKelvey Designs — Houston-area remodeling project example

Where do we offer countertops?

Remodeling in Houston, TX
Remodeling in Katy, TX
Remodeling in Cypress, TX
Remodeling in The Woodlands, TX
Remodeling in Sugar Land, TX
Remodeling in Memorial, TX
Estimate your budget with the remodel cost calculator, then work through the remodel planning checklist.

What do Houston remodeling numbers show?

The median owner-occupied home in the City of Houston is valued at $277,800, and 42.1% of homes are owner-occupied, per the U.S. Census Bureau's QuickFacts (American Community Survey, 2020–2024).
In Houston, a midrange minor kitchen remodel averages $28,300 and recoups 106.1% of its cost at resale, according to the Remodeling 2025 Cost vs. Value Report (www.costvsvalue.com).
In Houston, a midrange major kitchen remodel averages $81,521 and recoups 46.8% of its cost at resale, per the 2025 Cost vs. Value Report.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quartz vs granite vs marble — which should I pick?: Quartz is the most practical for kitchens — non-porous, never needs sealing, uniform look. Granite offers unique patterns and high heat resistance but needs sealing. Marble is stunning but soft and stains easily; better for bathrooms or low-use bars than primary kitchen prep.
How much do quartz countertops cost in Houston?: Installed quartz typically runs $50–$150 per square foot in Houston, depending on brand, color and edge details. A standard 40 sq ft kitchen counter lands around $2,000–$6,000.
How long does countertop installation take?: From template to install: 10–14 days typical. Template day takes 2-3 hours, fabrication runs 5–10 business days, install day takes 3-6 hours. Sinks, faucets, and backsplash happen after install.
Do I need to empty my cabinets before countertop install?: Yes, top drawers and upper cabinets. Lower cabinets can stay full — we only need access for sink hookups. Expect the kitchen to be out of commission for the install day plus 1 day for plumbing reconnection.