Every kitchen design project starts with inspiration—and usually, a lot of misinformation. From outdated trends to online myths, homeowners are often bombarded with conflicting advice about countertops and cabinetry.
Are granite countertops really high-maintenance? Is quartz only for modern kitchens? Does cabinet installation need to cost a fortune? Let’s set the record straight.
Below, we debunk eight of the most common myths so you can design your dream kitchen with confidence and clarity.
Myth #1: “Granite is going out of style.”
Let’s clear this up: granite countertops are timeless, not trendy.
While quartz has surged in popularity over the past decade, granite hasn’t disappeared—it has evolved. New finishes like honed or leathered granite, combined with more subtle color palettes, give this natural stone a modern edge.
Plus, each slab is completely unique. In an age of copy-paste design, granite appeals to homeowners who want their space to reflect individuality.
BNJ Granite & Cabinets has worked with countless clients who’ve blended granite’s character with clean cabinetry for a perfectly balanced look.
Myth #2: “Quartz countertops are 100% natural.”
Not quite.
Quartz countertops are engineered surfaces, made from crushed natural quartz mixed with resin and pigments. That means while they contain a significant amount of natural material, they’re not cut from a quarry like granite.
This isn’t a drawback—it’s a strength. Engineered quartz is non-porous, more uniform in pattern, and highly stain-resistant, which makes it ideal for busy kitchens.
But if you’re seeking a fully organic look with unpredictable veining and texture, granite might be your better match.
Myth #3: “You have to seal granite every year, or it’s ruined.”
The truth? Sealing granite is simple—and not always an annual event.
Depending on the specific stone and your usage habits, sealing might only be needed every 1–3 years. Many granite countertops come pre-sealed, and some sealers even last a decade.
Sealing isn’t a time-consuming chore. It’s a quick wipe-on, wipe-off process. And it offers excellent protection from stains and moisture.
So no, granite doesn’t demand high maintenance—it just asks for a little care, much like a well-oiled cutting board or wooden utensil.
Myth #4: “Quartz is totally indestructible.”
While quartz is very durable, it’s not invincible.
It resists scratches, stains, and bacteria better than many surfaces—but it’s not heat-proof. Placing a hot pan directly on quartz can lead to discoloration or even cracking due to thermal shock.
That said, it’s still one of the toughest materials in modern kitchens, and far more resilient than laminate or tile. With basic precautions (like using trivets or cutting boards), quartz can easily last for decades with minimal signs of wear.
Myth #5: “Cabinet installation is just screwing boxes into walls.”
This one is especially misleading—and potentially costly.
Proper cabinet installation is a precision craft. It involves leveling, securing, spacing, and aligning each unit to work cohesively with the countertop, flooring, plumbing, and appliances.
If cabinets aren’t perfectly level, your granite or quartz countertops can crack over time. Poor spacing can also interfere with doors, drawers, or electrical outlets.
Experienced installers, like those at BNJ Granite & Cabinets, take time to evaluate every measurement and structural requirement to ensure your investment lasts.
Myth #6: “Quartz and granite don’t belong in small kitchens.”
Wrong again.
Smaller kitchens benefit just as much from high-quality surfaces as larger ones. In fact, because space is limited, choosing durable and beautiful materials makes an even greater impact.
Light-colored quartz can visually expand tight spaces, while granite with movement or sparkle adds depth and dimension.
Smart cabinet installation also plays a key role—shallow uppers, open shelving, or custom corner cabinets can make smaller layouts more efficient and stylish.
Size doesn’t limit style. It just makes every design choice more meaningful.
Myth #7: “Cabinet hardware is purely cosmetic.”
While it’s true that knobs and pulls make a style statement, they also impact function in big ways.
Properly placed hardware prevents fingerprints, extends the life of your finish, and improves day-to-day ease. The shape, size, and grip quality of your handles affect how effortlessly you open drawers, especially in high-traffic or cooking-heavy homes.
When planning cabinet installation, don’t treat hardware as an afterthought. Align your choices with your countertop tone, cabinet finish, and overall kitchen feel.
Hardware is like punctuation in a sentence—it may be small, but it changes everything.
Myth #8: “Granite and quartz are interchangeable.”
They serve similar functions—but they’re not the same.
Granite is unique, natural, and varied. Quartz is sleek, consistent, and engineered. Granite requires sealing; quartz doesn’t. Granite brings natural imperfections; quartz offers predictable design.
Choosing between them isn’t about which one is better. It’s about which one suits your lifestyle, aesthetic, and tolerance for maintenance.
And that’s why it’s important to consult experienced providers who understand both materials. At BNJ Granite & Cabinets, helping homeowners align form, function, and feel is always the top priority.
Final Thought
Kitchens are full of choices—and with the wrong information, they can become overwhelming. But once you break through the noise and bust the myths, design becomes simpler, smarter, and far more satisfying.
Whether you’re leaning toward granite countertops for their natural richness, quartz countertops for their polish and precision, or planning your cabinet installation from the ground up, make those decisions with clarity and confidence.
Because a beautiful kitchen isn’t built on trends—it’s built on truth.
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