Quartz vs Granite Worktops
Make an informed decision about Quartz Worktops vs Granite Worktops for your North London home.
Quartz Worktops
Engineered stone made from 90-95% ground quartz crystals bound with resin. Available in a wide range of colours and patterns, including marble-look options.
✓ Advantages
- ✓Non-porous - no sealing required
- ✓Very consistent colour/pattern
- ✓Scratch and stain resistant
- ✓Low maintenance
- ✓Wide colour range available
- ✓Hygienic surface
✗ Disadvantages
- ✗Not heat resistant (can scorch)
- ✗Some find appearance "manufactured"
- ✗Seams may be visible
- ✗Damaged sections hard to repair
- ✗Not suitable for outdoor kitchens
- ✗Premium brands are expensive
Best for: Modern, contemporary kitchens, Busy families wanting low maintenance, Those wanting consistent appearance, Kitchens with specific colour schemes, Budget-conscious luxury look
Price range: £300 - £600 per sqm installed
Granite Worktops
Natural stone quarried from the earth. Each slab is unique with natural variations in colour and pattern. Extremely hard and heat resistant.
✓ Advantages
- ✓Each slab is unique
- ✓Excellent heat resistance
- ✓Natural beauty and depth
- ✓Very durable and scratch resistant
- ✓Can be repaired if damaged
- ✓Adds significant property value
✗ Disadvantages
- ✗Requires periodic sealing
- ✗Porous - can stain if unsealed
- ✗Heavy - needs strong cabinets
- ✗Limited colour availability
- ✗Natural variations may not match
- ✗Can chip at edges
Best for: Traditional and classic kitchens, Those wanting natural materials, Keen home cooks (heat resistance), Properties in conservation areas, Those valuing uniqueness
Price range: £350 - £800 per sqm installed
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Quartz Worktops | Granite Worktops |
|---|---|---|
| Maintenance | Very low | Annual sealing |
| Heat Resistance | Use trivets | Excellent |
| Uniqueness | Manufactured consistency | Each slab unique |
| Stain Resistance | Excellent | Good (when sealed) |
| Colour Range | Very wide | Natural only |
| Price Range | £300-£600/sqm | £350-£800/sqm |
| Period Property Fit | Modern | Classic |
| Repairability | Difficult | Possible |
Our Expert Verdict
Quartz wins for practicality and consistent aesthetics. Granite wins for natural beauty and heat resistance. For busy modern kitchens, quartz is our most popular choice. For traditional Hampstead properties, granite feels more appropriate.
Choose Quartz Worktops if:
- →You want minimal maintenance
- →Consistent colour is important
- →You prefer modern aesthetics
- →You have young children
- →Budget is a consideration
Choose Granite Worktops if:
- →You cook a lot (hot pans)
- →You value natural materials
- →Your kitchen is traditional style
- →Uniqueness matters to you
- →You're in a period property
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put hot pans on quartz?▼
We recommend trivets for hot pans on quartz - direct heat can cause scorching or thermal shock. Granite handles hot pans much better, though trivets are still good practice for any worktop.
Do both materials stain?▼
Quartz is non-porous and highly stain-resistant. Granite needs sealing - when properly sealed, it resists most stains. Red wine left overnight on unsealed granite can cause permanent marks.
Which adds more value to my home?▼
Both are premium materials that add value. In traditional properties, granite often resonates more with buyers. In modern properties, quality quartz is equally valued.
How long do they last?▼
Both can last 25+ years with care. Granite may last longer in perfect conditions but requires more maintenance. Quartz maintains its appearance with minimal effort throughout its life.
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Need Expert Advice?
Our experienced team can help you decide which option is best for your home. Get personalized advice and a free, no-obligation quote.