Granite and quartz have been the most popular materials for kitchen worktops for years now. Choosing one or the other can be a challenging task since both are great materials. Both have their pros and cons, so it is best to choose the one according to your preferences. Continue reading and find out about the differences but also similarities between these two materials.
Granite is natural, while quartz is an engineered stone
Granite is 100% natural stone, while quartz worktops are made of quartz stone, resins and pigments. These facts have an impact on many other characteristics of both materials, such as the colour palette, resistance to staining and heat.
Granite is better at high temperatures
Granite is one of the best materials when it comes to resistance to high temperatures. You can even postpone a hot pan on it without any worries of burning it. Quartz is not as resistant to high temperatures as granite. Heat can lessen the bond between resins and quartz, so make sure to always use mats on your kitchen worktops.
Quartz is resistant to staining
The resins in quartz are there for a good reason- because they bring the waterproof quality. Quartz worktops are non-porous and hence, resistant to staining. Granite is, however, porous and can get stained. Liquids that can stain granite include wine and coffee, so be especially careful with them.
Maintaining
Both are very easy to clean with just soap and water. With both, you should avoid harsh chemicals that contain bleach or ammonia. The only difference is that you need to seal granite worktops, while quartz doesn’t require sealing. The sealant will make it less porous and therefore more resistant to staining.
Durability
They are both very hard, durable materials that will not break due to exposure to the high impact of force. When it comes to the resistance to scratching, granite performs a bit better. The reason for that is that resins are forming a softer layer on top of quartz worktops. Although you shouldn’t have a problem with scratching with quartz stone worktops, using a cutting board is recommended with both. That way, you will prevent the dulling of the knives.
Colour palette
Quartz has one of the widest colour palettes on the market. During the manufacturing process the pigments are added to change quartz colour, resulting in a very wide colour palette. In quartz’s range, you can find almost any colour you like. Granite, on the other hand, preserves its natural colour. But still, you will be able to find beautiful colours in granite’s range. The only difference is that if you are looking for unusual colours, like bright pink or lime green, you can find it only in quartz’s range.
Both materials are great options for kitchen worktops, and it is just the question of your preferences. If you have a lot of spills, quartz can be a better option for you. If you like material that will handle all kinds of temperatures, maybe granite is a better option.
For more information about quartz and granite worktops, please contact us.
