If you’re in the market for new countertops you’re eye has probably wandered past quartz and granite countertops at least once. Both striking choices, each offers their own benefits, but which to choose from? In this article, we’ll be comparing granite and quartz worktops, exploring their appearance, durability and maintenance, to help you choose which is worktop is the right fit for your home.
Appearance
Granite has long been a favourite choice for kitchen and bathroom countertops alike. Its unique pattern and natural colouring make it an easy choice for many. But due to it being a natural product, appearance can vary greatly from slab to slab and comes in a limited colour range: beige, black, blue, brown, burgundy, grey, green, red, yellow, or white.
Quartz, on the other hand, has been specially engineered. This allows for consistent colouring and pattern replication. Quartz slabs can be perfectly matched to give a seamless, consistent appearance, or achieve the high-end look of marble without the price tag.
Durability
When it comes to durability, both granite and quartz are almost on equal footing. Both are essentially made of rock, and granite is routinely cited and one of the hardest stones. But hardest doesn’t mean indestructible. Because granite is a natural material, it is subject to chips and cracks if impacted in the wrong way. Granite is extremely heat resistant, but it is susceptible to extreme temperature changes. We always recommend using a stand or heat pad for any countertop.
Like granite, quartz is extremely durable. Unlike granite, quartz is manmade, so any natural weaknesses or imperfections are eliminated, leaving you with a material that can withstand more impact than granite. Unlike other materials, such as wood, quartz is also able to withstand high temperatures, making it an ideal solution for busy kitchens.
Maintenance
Granite is porous, so some all-purpose cleaners may be too harsh and cause damage. Granite surfaces require specialised granite cleaner and yearly resealing for best results. This also means that granite is more susceptible to stains. Make sure to wipe clean any spills right away, especially coloured foods like beet juice or food colouring.
Quartz is an entirely non-porous material, so no matter what kind of spillage you encounter, you won’t need to worry about stains. Perfect for families, quartz is a hygienic choice. The non-porous nature means that germs and bacteria cannot be absorbed into the surface and are easily cleaned away with just a quick wipe with any mild soap or all-purpose cleaner. No need for special products to make your quartz countertops looking dazzling. Finally, quartz worktops do not require any regular maintenance, so they’re perfect for anyone looking for convenience but on a slightly smaller budget.
