What is the difference between Granite and Quartz worktops?
If you are reading this, you’re probably in the market for a new kitchen worktop surface, however you can’t decide if either granite or quartz is right for you. This article will compare granite against quartz and hopefully give you enough knowledge to make a decision on which surface is the right one for you. When deciding on a worktop surface, you cannot go wrong with either granite or quartz, however it can sometimes be a challenge choosing between the two due the many benefits of each material.
Granite
For those wanting a natural stone finish, granite might be the right choice for you. The type of people who choose granite are the same type of people who would choose solid wood flooring over laminate or a wool rug over laminate alternatives. These natural surfaces however are more likely to have slight colour differences in the stone than quartz as they have not been engineered.
One thing that is important to remember about this natural stone is that it can stain easily. Be prepared to have a cloth on standby in case of any spillages which may occur throughout the day, liquids such as red wine have been known to be especially difficult to clean from the stone. The good news is, if Granite is sealed using a good sealant, then it will not stain as long as it is cleared up.
Quartz
As quartz is an engineered product, it Is non-porous. Natural stone like granite contains pours which allow for liquid to be collected and leads to staining. Luckily with quartz this isn’t an issue. These pours can also harbour dangerous bacteria, making quartz a safer material for food preparation.
Quartz also requires considerably less maintenance than natural stone in terms of cleaning, making it popular with young parents who want to make sure that their work surfaces are bacteria free. Many quartz manufacturers now treat their countertops with a germ fighting coating to further enhance its hygiene.
Which is best?
Comparing the two, quartz is the more durable material and will be better equipped to deal with natural wear and tear. It is also worth noting that one installed, granite needs to be sealed and then resealed on a regular basis. This is one of the compromises that you have to make with if you want natural stone in your property.
When it comes to price, it’s difficult to decide on a clear winner. The prices for granite vary much more than Quartz. A low-quality granite will most likely be a cheaper option than quartz however when choosing a high-quality granite, you are likely to pay considerably more than a quartz alternative. So, it really depends on your budget.
If you would like to speak to one of our specialists about whether a granite or quartz worktop is right for you, or you want to learn more about what we do. Visit our website capitalgranite.co.uk or call us today on 020 8531 2963.
