It is one of the most asked questions we hear from homeowners planning a kitchen renovation. Both quartz and granite look stunning, last for decades, and add genuine value to your home. So how do you choose between them?
The honest answer is that neither material is objectively better than the other. What matters is which one is better for you, your kitchen and the way you actually live. Let us break it down properly.
What Is the Difference Between Quartz and Granite?
Granite is a natural stone. It is quarried from the earth, cut into slabs and finished. No two pieces are the same. The patterns, the movement, and the colour variations are entirely natural. That is a big part of its appeal.
Quartz worktops are engineered stone. They are made from roughly 90-95 per cent crushed natural quartz, combined with resin and pigments. The result is a highly consistent, non-porous surface that comes in a huge range of colours and finishes, including ones that natural stone cannot produce.
Durability: How Do They Compare?
Both granite and quartz are extremely hard-wearing. Granite scores around 6 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale. Quartz scores around 7. In practical terms, both will resist everyday scratching from kitchen use. Neither should be used as a chopping board directly, but both will hold up well under normal conditions.
Where they differ is in how they handle impact. Granite, being a natural stone, has slight variations in density that can make certain areas marginally more susceptible to chipping on the edges. Quartz, as an engineered material, tends to be more uniform and can be slightly more forgiving in high-traffic areas.
Maintenance: The Practical Reality
This is where quartz often wins for busy households. Because quartz is non-porous, it does not need sealing and will not absorb liquids, bacteria or food particles. You wipe it down, and it is done.
Granite, on the other hand, is naturally porous and needs to be sealed when first installed, then resealed roughly every 1 to 2 years, depending on use and finish. It is not a huge job, but it is worth knowing about before you commit.
That said, a well-sealed granite surface remains highly resistant to staining and easy to keep clean day to day. If you are prepared for the occasional maintenance, it performs beautifully.
Heat Resistance
Granite wins outright here. As a natural stone formed under immense heat, it handles a hot pan straight from the hob without complaint. Quartz, because of its resin content, can be damaged by prolonged exposure to high heat. You can put a pan down briefly, but it is best practice to use a trivet.
Aesthetics: Natural vs Engineered
This often comes down to personal preference. Granite’s natural variation means every kitchen is unique. You will not find two identical granite worktops anywhere in the world. The movement in the stone, the flecks and crystals, the depth of the surface are things that no engineered product fully replicates.
Quartz, however, offers consistency and a wider colour palette. If you are going for a specific contemporary look, particularly a very clean, uniform surface with no variation, quartz gives you precise control over the final result.
Cost in the UK
Pricing for both materials varies considerably depending on the slab, the supplier and the complexity of the installation. Generally speaking, granite and quartz sit in a similar price range, though the rarest granite varieties can command a premium. Budget options exist in both categories, as do high-end ones.
At Cheshire Granite Worktops, we stock both, and we are happy to show you samples and talk through what works best for your project. Take a look at what we offer on the Cheshire Granite Worktops homepage.
Which Should You Choose?
If you cook frequently with high heat and want the lowest possible maintenance, granite is a strong choice. If you want a non-porous surface in a specific contemporary colour with zero sealing requirements, quartz is probably the better fit. Both will serve you well for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is granite or quartz more hygienic for a kitchen worktop?
A: Quartz has a slight edge here because it is non-porous and does not require sealing to stay hygienic. A properly sealed granite worktop is also very hygienic, but the sealing needs to be maintained to keep its protective qualities intact.
Q: Which is better for resale value in a UK home, quartz or granite?
A: Both add value. Natural stone worktops of any kind are considered a premium feature in UK property. Granite’s unique appeal can strongly resonate with buyers; quartz’s contemporary look does the same in modern kitchens.
Q: Can quartz or granite crack?
A: Both can crack under extreme impact or thermal shock, though it is uncommon with normal use. Granite can occasionally chip at the edges when struck hard. Quartz is more uniform but can crack if exposed to sudden, severe temperature changes.
Q: How long do granite and quartz worktops last?
A: Both can last the lifetime of the kitchen if properly cared for. Granite worktops installed decades ago are still performing well in homes across the UK. Quartz is a more recent product but is equally long-lasting.
Q: Does quartz stain more easily than granite?
A: No, the opposite is true. Quartz is non-porous and highly stain-resistant, requiring no sealing. Granite needs to be sealed to achieve comparable stain resistance.
Q: Is granite better in a busy family kitchen?
A: Granite handles heat better, which is a genuine advantage in a busy kitchen. It does require occasional resealing, but many families prefer its natural character and robustness. Quartz’s non-porous nature is also a draw for families wanting an easy-clean surface.
