Quartz and Granite Countertops

he use of quartz worktops is gaining market share and for very good reasons. As experts in this area, we believe that quartz worktops are one of the best choices for any kitchen or bathroom renovation. So let's have a look at quartz and why it is such a great material.

Description and Characteristics of Quartz

Quartz worktops are manufactured surfaces made from natural quartz crystals combined with resin and pigment, which creates a uniformly non-porous surface with exceptional resistances to stains, scratches, and heat. Unlike natural stone (such as granite), quartz does not need sealing because it is pre-sealed during the manufacturing process. Quartz is available in many colors, patterns, and finishes to suit the wide variety of design preferences available.

Durability: Quartz countertops are extremely resilient and can handle a lifetime of wear and tear and still shine.

Stain Resistance: Quartz is non-porous, so it will repel water and be stain resistant from the most common household spills, such as coffee, wine, oil, etc.

Scratch Resistance: The resin in quartz makes it very scratch resistant, even from the sharpest utensils or from bumping against common household items.

Heat Resistance: You should always use trivets for hot pans, but comparatively, quartz can handle higher temperatures more durably than laminate.

Granite worktops are a favored addition to modern kitchens, known for their strength, refined look, and enduring style.A better understanding of granite worktops will assist you in making a well-informed decision when planning your kitchen or bathroom project.

Description and Properties of Granite

Granite is an igneous rock that originates from magma, which cools and solidifies upon reaching the Earth's surface. Granite mainly consists of quartz crystals, feldspar, mica and other minerals that are responsible for granite's unique patterns, ranging from subtle earth tones to bright blues and greens. Each slab of granite is unique in the aspect of individual patterns, color variations, and intrinsic beauty.

Advantages of Granite Worktops

Durability: Granite is known for its hardness and can resist scratches, chips and stains if properly sealed. Granite worktops are ideal for active areas such as the kitchen.

Resistance To Heat: Granite worktops can withstand high heat. You can place hot pans, skillets, or pots directly on the granite worktop without risk of damage.

Low Maintenance: Granite can repel bacteria and stains if sealed correctly which allows you to clean your worktop easily with soap and water.

Longevity: If cared for, granite worktops can last a lifetime; proven durability, strength and long lasting value.

Quartz vs. Granite: Which Worktop Material Suits You Best?

Choosing between quartz and granite for kitchen worktops can be hard because each have their own beneficial features that can enhance your space. Here is a summary of the key differences to aid your decision making.

Durability

Quartz: Quartz worktops are made from natural quartz crystals and resins which results in excellent durability. Quartz worktops offer excellent resistance to scratches, stains, heat, and impact.

Granite: Formed from molten magma, granite worktops are primarily composed of quartz, feldspar, and mica. They are highly durable, although they can be slightly more prone to chipping or cracking under extreme pressure.

Maintenance Requirements

Quartz: Since it is non-porous, it requires no sealing, resists stains, and prevents bacterial growth.Being non-porous, it doesn’t require sealing, resists staining, and doesn’t harbor bacteria.

Granite: Granite worktops are fairly simple to maintain, though they should be sealed (usually once a year) in order to protect its porous surface from stains and moisture.

Beautification

Quartz:Quartz worktops have modern manufacturing that allows for many colors and patterns including styles that look like natural stones like marble or granite. So they provide greater flexibility in design and more consistency in looks.

Granite:The natural beauty of granite cannot be outdone, each slab has its unique veining and patterns, which look the way they do because of the natural process of formation over millions of years. This adds charm and character to any kitchen.

Cost

Quartz: Quartz is generally less expensive than granite, however the costs will vary depending on color, pattern, brand and availability.

Granite: Granite is generally more expensive than quartz as costs vary depending on the material’s rarity, complexity of the pattern etc, and thickness of the slab. Some may feel that the qualities of durability and resilience can be justified by paying a higher price for the same applications.

Both quartz and granite can each have their own advantages, so which one you choose will depend on what is important to you whether it be the durability and lower maintenance of quartz compared to the natural beauty and uniqueness of granite. Think about your individual needs and comforts and which one fits into your kitchen or bathroom plan.

When comparing a quartz to a granite worktop there are a few important considerations which are helpful to think about.

Durability:Both quartz and granite are durable materials although quartz is superior to granite in situations where heavy use is anticipated. Specifically, quartz material resists scratches and stains better than granite which makes quartz a better choice for active households or people who entertain often.

Maintenance: Of the two, quartz is the most low-maintenance option due to its non-porous properties and does not need to be sealed unlike granite which requires periodic sealing to maintain its durability and performance. Granite is still durable and heat-resistant.

Aesthetic Appeal: Depending on your personal style the decision may also come down to quartz or granite. Quartz offers a much wider variety of colors and patterns, some of which mimic natural stone and more contemporary options. In contrast, granite offers unique patterns of veins which add one-of-a-kind character to any kitchen.

Cost: In general quartz is the more affordable option, especially in the case of non-branded product choices.

In conclusion the final decision should be made based on your personal preference for whichever characteristics are most relevant to you, durability, maintenance, aesthetics, or cost.

Still not quite sure? Let our team at Solid Stone Worktops help you evaluate your options and find the quartz or granite worktop that is perfect for you.

Get in Touch