Granite or Quartz Worktops? Top 10 Pros & Cons
Granite and quartz are the most popular materials for kitchen worktops today. They are both known for their durability and ability to withstand every day wear. But they also have their differences that might lead you to choose one over the other. Continue reading and find out the top pros and cons of granite and quartz worktops.
1. Granite is natural, quartz is manufactured
Granite is a completely natural product without other added materials. Quartz is, on the other hand, a man-made stone. It is a combination of 93% natural quartz and 7% resins and pigments. These facts affect almost all other attributes of both materials.
2. Quartz is non-porous
Non-porous surface is one that doesn’t absorb water and liquids; hence they are very resistant to staining. Quartz has a built-in sealant-resin which makes it non-porous and highly resistant to staining. Granite is porous and can get stained by some liquids, like wine or coffee.
3. Granite resists heat better
Both materials are great options for tailor made kitchen worktops because they resist high temperatures. However, granite has slightly better performances at high temperatures. Granite will not melt nor break under any kitchen temperature. Quartz is a bit more sensitive because high temperature can lessen the bond between the stone and resin.
4. They are both long-lasting
Both are very durable materials that will not crack nor break easily. Quartz and granite worktops are very long-lasting and you will not have to replace them for decades.
5. Quartz has a wider shade range
As a manufactured stone, quartz has a wider colour range. Quartz can have unusual colours that are not usually found in nature, such as magenta or bright orange. Granite’s colour range has some beautiful natural colours, but you will not be able to find unusual stone colours like in quartz’s range.
6. Granite is more unique
But because granite is natural, each its slab is different from the other. The patterns and veining are the results of different mineral impurities in the stone, giving it a unique appearance. Since quartz is manufactured, its patterns are more uniformed.
7. They are easy to clean
Both are very easy to clean with just soap, water and a soft cloth. Quartz has smoother surfaces and can be slightly easier to clean.
8. Quartz is more affordable
The prices for both stones are varying from colour to colour. Generally speaking, quartz is more affordable, but it is not impossible to find the granite colour that is cheaper than some quartz colours.
9. Granite is more resistant to scratching
Both stones are very durable, but granite resists scratching slightly better. The main reason is that quartz has resin as the top layer, which is a softer material.
10. Granite needs to be sealed
Granite needs to be sealed every 3-6 months, depending on the colour. Quartz doesn’t need sealing at all since resins are already acting as a sealant.
Both granite and quartz are excellent materials for kitchens, as well as for the bathroom. The best advice is to choose the one that fits your manners better.
Need more information about pros and cons for granite or quartz worktops ? Please, feel free to contact us and we will be happy to help you.
