Difference between a quartz and granite worktop

Many customers face the dilemma of whether to purchase a quartz or granite worktop and often ask what is the difference. In this article we will explain the main differences between a quartz and a granite worktop.

Granite Worktops
Granite is a natural igneous rock which is formed in the ground over millions of years. This is quarried out of the ground in blocks the size of a mini bus. It is then cut into large slabs approximately 3 meter by 1.9 meters. Finally it is polished using diamond tip polishing wheels and then shipped to the UK ready to manufacture your granite worktops. Granite offers more random veining and uneven colour patterns, specially in the light colours compared to a quartz worktop.

Granite Advantages

1. More cost effective
2. Second most durable worktop (after quartz)
3. Natural look
4. Heat Resistant
5. Strong specially dark colours

Granite Disadvantages

1. Porous specially light colours
2. Requires Re-sealing

Quartz Worktops
Quartz Worktops is a natural crystal which is mined from the ground it is one of the hardest stones in the world. This is then crushed into a fine sand and mixed with 3 to 7% polymer resin and other components. It is then set into slabs which are approximately 3 meters by 1.4meters. These engineered slabs are then polished using diamond tip polishing wheels and then shipped to the UK ready for fabrication. Quartz is manufactured on patented breton spa machinery by silestone, caesarstone, cimstone, zodiaq and technistone.  In recent years quartz has become more and more popular due to the fact it comes in a vast range of colours. Many quartz manufacturers have started producing quartz that look like marble, but with the exceptional properties of quartz.

Quartz Advantages

1. Heat Resistant
2. Non-porous
3. Most durable worktop
4. Wide range of colour choice
5. Stain Resistant
6. Antibacterial

Quartz Disadvantages

1. Expensive
2. Restricted width size compared to granite.

In summary quartz and granite are both very durable surfaces, with quartz having the slight edge over granite. Both are very popular choices that will add value to your property and provide years of use.