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Obviously granite and quartz are two very different forms of rock, however both are popular choices for kitchen worktops, so what’s the difference and what are the advantages and disadvantages of each? First and foremost, granite worktops are hewn from natural stone and are a 100% natural material whereas quartz worktops are a man made material consisting of around 95% natural quartz bonded with 5% resin.

Although granite worktops are an incredibly strong and hard wearing natural material, being sliced to a mere inch and a half in thickness can make them prone to cracking. Quartz worktops on the other hand are more flexible due to the resin which bonds the quartz powder and chippings together, are much less likely to crack under impact.

One common misconception many people have with both quartz and granite worktops is that they are both scratch and stain resistant. They are not. Granite, although ‘rock hard’ is very porous, so fat and oil will easily stain the surface. The acetic acid from lemon juice will also leave a stain on an untreated granite worktop. Granite needs to be sealed before use to protect it from staining, and resealing every few years is advisable.

With regards to quartz worktops, the resin which bonds the quartz powder and crystals together is susceptible to scratching, so a chopping board should always be used when preparing food. If the worktop is of a pale or white colour, things like turmeric will stain the worktop, as will splashes from sauces such as curry and bolognaise. Regardless of whether you’re planning on buying granite or quartz, make sure they are properly sealed and treat them like any other worktop, wipe clean any spills or stains as soon as possible because neither quartz nor marble is completely infallible.

By Carl Liver and Barry Summers

Tags: Ganite Worktops, Quartz Worktops