Quartz v Granite: Which Stone Worktop Is Best for Your Kitchen?
Worktops play a big part in both the look and practicality of your kitchen. They should be visually appealing and complementary, whilst being tough enough to stand up to everyday use. With that in mind, two of the most popular surface materials are quartz and granite. Both are highly durable, but when it comes to quartz v granite – which is best for you and your lifestyle?
At Claremont Kitchens in Midhurst, we design and supply bespoke kitchen worktops and splashbacks in various natural and engineered stones. To help narrow your options, explore the pros and cons of quartz v granite worktops in our comparison guide below.
What is quartz?
Quartz worktops are manmade surfaces crafted from a blend of crushed natural quartz crystals with added resins and pigments. The result is a non-porous, ultra-durable material that’s resistant to stains, scratches and everyday wear. Unlike natural stone, quartz does not need to be sealed.
Because quartz is manufactured, it also offers consistent colour and pattern, making it ideal for modern kitchens where a uniform look is preferred. And it’s available in a huge variety of styles available, including modern bold hues and subtle neutrals. Choose from marble-inspired finishes with authentic veining through to simple solid colours and even metallic designs.
What are the advantages of quartz worktops?
- Low maintenance: Quartz doesn’t require sealing and is easy to clean.
- Durable: Resistant to chips, scratches and daily wear.
- Hygienic: Its non-porous surface helps prevent bacteria build-up.
- Wide colour range: Choose from realistic stone effects to solid colour finishes.
Quartz worktop considerations
Despite being very hardwearing, quartz isn’t fully heat-proof, so you should avoid placing hot pans directly on the surface. Quartz is also not suitable for use outdoors as it can fade when exposed to strong UV light. Additionally, while its uniform patterning suits contemporary interiors, it lacks the natural variation that gives granite its distinctive look and charm.
What is granite?
In comparison, granite is a natural stone, formed over millions of years as molten rock cools deep within the earth. It is found in a wide range of shades – from soft greys, creams and whites to striking blacks and blues – so there’s plenty of choice to suit different kitchen styles.
What’s more, each slab is entirely unique, with mineral flecks and veining creating variations in colour and texture. It’s this individuality that gives granite a timeless quality that works equally well in classic and modern kitchens.
Granite’s durability and natural resistance to heat also make it one of the toughest and most practical kitchen worktop materials available.
What are the advantages of granite worktops?
- Natural character: Each slab features one-of-a-kind markings.
- Heat resistant: Handles hot cookware with ease.
- Extremely durable: Hardwearing and will stand the test of time.
- Adds value: Natural beauty complements luxury kitchens and enhances appeal.
Granite worktop considerations
One downside to granite is that because it is a natural stone, it is porous. Because of this, it will need periodic sealing to protect against staining. Also, granite’s colour and pattern can vary slightly between slabs – something to consider if you’d prefer a more consistent finish or are planning a very large kitchen.
Quartz v Granite: A comparison of key differences
How do you clean and care for quartz and granite worktops?
Whether you choose quartz or granite, caring for your stone worktops properly will maintain their appearance and performance for many years. Both materials are known for being long-lasting and practical, but they do have slightly different care needs.
How to care for quartz worktops
Quartz countertops are very low maintenance thanks to their non-porous qualities. For daily cleaning, simply wipe with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive pads, as these can dull the finish over time. Dry and buff the surface after washing to remove soap residue.
Although quartz offers a good degree of heat resistance, it is still important to protect the surface from extreme heat. Always use a trivet or heat mat under hot pans or trays. With regular care, quartz worktops will retain their appearance without the need for any sealing or professional polishing.
How to care for granite worktops
Granite is tougher than most natural stones, hence its popularity, but it is still slightly porous. To prevent liquid spills being absorbed and staining, you’ll need to seal your granite worktops once or twice a year, depending on how heavily they’re used. Our granite worktops are sealed with a professional grade treatment as part of the manufacturing process, and we can provide advice regarding appropriate sealants and how to care for your worktops. Although granite is heat resistant, it is still advisable to use trivets for hot pans to prevent thermal shock and cracking.
For day-to-day cleaning, use mild detergent and warm water, and wipe spills as soon as possible. This is especially important for acidic foods like wine, lemon juice or vinegar which can mark the surface. You should also avoid abrasive cleaners and scouring pads, as they can damage the sealant and dull the surface finish. Dry and buff the surface after cleaning with a soft cloth. With proper care, granite worktops will maintain their appearance and last for decades. Another benefit of granite, and a testament to its durability, is that it can even be used in outdoor kitchens.
Quartz v Granite: Which worktop should you choose?
To address the question of quartz v granite and which is best, the right stone worktop for you will depend on how you use your kitchen and the style you prefer. Quartz is ideal if you want a sleek, low-maintenance surface with a consistent look. It’s perfect for busy homes and modern kitchens where easy cleaning and durability are priorities.
Granite is a great option for anyone who loves natural materials with distinctive character. Each worktop is unique and its heat resistance makes it a practical choice for keen cooks. Granite is often chosen for traditional or statement kitchens, where its depth and variation stand out. But keep in mind that it needs a little more maintenance than quartz – namely, re-sealing every so often.
Get expert stone worktop advice from Claremont Kitchens
At Claremont Kitchens in Midhurst, we specialise in bespoke kitchen worktops and complimentary splashbacks crafted from quartz, granite, marble, ceramic, porcelain and solid wood. Our trusted suppliers include premium brands such as Silestone, Cullifords, and Dekton, are known for their exceptional quality, extensive colour choices and long-lasting performance. Each surface is made to measure and fitted with precision by our experienced team.
Our designers, based in West Sussex, will guide you through every stage (including the quartz v granite conundrum) – from choosing the right material to arranging professional templating and installation. We provide a complete service across Sussex, Hampshire and Surrey, ensuring every project runs smoothly from start to finish. You can also view installed quartz, granite and porcelain worktops and splashbacks at our Midhurst showroom alongside our luxury kitchen displays, to help you visualise how each surface will look in your own home.
Whether you’re designing a new kitchen or simply updating your worktops, we’ll help you choose a material that looks beautiful and meets the demands of your lifestyle. Contact us today to learn more about our kitchen design service or to request stone samples.
