Based in Surrey, Affordable Granite has been fabricating and installing high quality stone worktops for homes throughout the South East of England and beyond for over 20 years. Customers commonly ask about the difference between quartz and granite worktops. If you are planning the installation of a kitchen in a new-build property, or are upgrading an outdated one, there are several facts to consider. Stone kitchen work surfaces have risen in popularity during recent years, with granite or quartz being on the top of the wish-list to create a stunning and practical space in the home. However these two stones differ in composition, appearance, maintenance, and performance.
Granite: This is a natural stone which has formed within the Earth’s crust from cooled magma. Each granite slab is unique, featuring variations in colour, veining, and patterns which reflect the minerals present during formation, and are specific to the global site where the stone has been extracted. This individuality is a major appeal for those who want a one-of-a-kind worktop. Granite is extremely hard-wearing, making it ideal for busy multi-use kitchens. However, because granite is porous, it requires periodic sealing to prevent stains, moisture absorption, and bacterial growth. Without proper sealing, spills such as oil or wine can penetrate the surface and leave marks. Affordable Granite professionally seal the stone during fabrication, and re-application of a recommended sealant can easily be carried out at home when required to preserve the luminosity and protect the durability of the surface.
Quartz: Unlike granite, quartz is an engineered stone which has been manufactured with high-tech machinery by combining crushed quartz crystals with a smaller percentage of other natural minerals, polymer resins and coloured pigments. This manufacturing process results in a non-porous material that is highly resistant to staining, scratches, and bacterial growth. One of quartz’s biggest advantages is its low maintenance, as it doesn’t require sealing and is easy to clean with mild soap and water. While granite varies in shade and veining throughout the slab and can have naturally occurring fissures, quartz kitchen worktops have a consistent appearance, which appeals to those who prefer uniformity of colour and pattern. In addition, quartz is available in a wider spectrum of colours, many of which closely mimic marble or granite.
Both quartz and granite worktops provide the opportunity to enhance the kitchen space in-keeping with your home lifestyle and interior design concept. These stone work surfaces can be a wise investment for both the present and the long-term value of your property, with timeless appeal. The friendly and experienced Affordable Granite team are available to discuss your plans and advise on the options available to suit your aspirations and available budget. Call us today on 01293 863992 or use the Contact Form on our website to get in touch.
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