Quartz Vs Granite Worktops
Quartz vs Granite Worktops
Quartz and granite are the two surfaces most homeowners weigh up. Here is how they really compare, beyond the headline of engineered versus natural.
The short answer
Engineered vs natural stone
Quartz is engineered; granite is natural stone.
The real differences are sealing, consistency and the look you want.
non
Porous quartz
2
Strong worktop choices
Quartz and granite are both excellent, durable worktop surfaces, but they differ in important ways. Quartz is engineered from around 93% natural quartz, so it is non-porous, never needs sealing, and is consistent in colour and pattern slab to slab. Granite is a natural stone, quarried and cut, so it is porous and needs sealing, and every slab is unique. Neither is simply better; it depends on whether you value consistency and low maintenance or natural, one-of-a-kind character. To go further, read whether quartz is harder than granite and quartz worktop cost vs granite.
At a glance
nonporous
Quartz
Never needs sealing, resists stains.
naturalstone
Granite
Quarried, porous, sealed and re-sealed.
yourchoice
The decision
Consistency or natural character.
Quartz and granite compared
The core difference
Quartz is an engineered stone, made from around 93% crushed natural quartz bound with resin, while granite is a natural stone quarried in solid blocks and cut into slabs. This single difference, engineered versus natural, is behind most of the practical points that follow. Our FAQ on whether quartz is a natural stone explains it.
Sealing and maintenance
Quartz is non-porous, so it never needs sealing and resists staining with only routine cleaning. Granite is porous to a degree, so it is sealed and that sealing needs renewing over time. For low maintenance, quartz has the edge. Our FAQ on whether quartz needs sealing covers this.
Consistency versus uniqueness
Because quartz is engineered, its colour and pattern are consistent, so the slab matches the sample. Granite is natural, so every slab is unique, with its own movement and variation. Some homeowners love that individuality; others prefer the predictability of quartz. Our FAQ on the colours of quartz covers the quartz range.
Durability and hardness
Both quartz and granite are hard, durable surfaces well suited to a kitchen. Neither is fragile, and both last for many years when well fitted. Our FAQ on whether quartz is harder than granite takes an honest look at this.
Choosing between them
Neither material is simply better. It comes down to whether you value the consistency and low maintenance of quartz or the natural, one-of-a-kind character of granite, alongside cost and look. Precious Marble specialises in quartz and can talk you through the comparison from its Bedford base. See the Quartz Worktops Bedford page to start.
Key points
Engineered vs natural
Quartz is manufactured; granite is quarried stone.
Sealing
Quartz never needs it; granite does.
Consistency vs uniqueness
Quartz slabs match; granite slabs are all unique.
Both are durable
Each lasts for years when well fitted.
To compare, read whether quartz is harder than granite, quartz worktop cost vs granite and whether quartz needs sealing. The full Quartz FAQs has more.
Compare quartz and granite with us
Precious Marble specialises in quartz and can explain how it compares with granite. Tell us about your kitchen for a free quote. 0% interest-free finance is available.
More from the Quartz FAQs
Common questions
What is the difference between quartz and granite worktops?
Is quartz or granite better?
Does granite need more maintenance than quartz?
Are quartz and granite both durable?
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