Granite vs Composite Worktops: A Comparison
Granite Worktops
Granite vs Composite Worktops: A Comparison
Engineered or quartz worktops consisting of more than one material are known as composite worktops. Composite material is renowned for its durability. Just like granite, its hardiness and extreme resistance to acids, makes it an ideal material used in kitchen design. Granite is a traditional option for kitchen worktops. The natural stone is well-sought after. However, the popularity of composite kitchen worktops continues to grow.
In this blog post, we compare both worktops materials, looking at their qualities and features. You can find similar posts where we compare granite against marble and laminate worktops, here and here.
Durability
The components and manufacturing process of composite materials make them extremely tough. Natural quartz or granite is ground down and combined with 5% of high-quality resin. Pure granite, on the other hand, is a natural stone and one of the hardest materials on earth.
Both materials are highly resistant to scratches. Although chopping blocks and other protective measures should be used. The better worktops are looked after, the longer they stay in pristine condition.
Bear in mind that every slab of granite is different. Some samples of stone may be stronger than others. Whereas the manufacturing process of quartz worktops guarantees consistent durability.
Stain Resistance
Both materials are highly stain resistant. Like with most things, good conditions are maintained and not achieved. It’s important to keep surfaces clean. Otherwise stains and water spots will eventually show up. Being easy to clean along with little maintenance are major benefits seen in both types of worktops.
Composite worktops in particular are resilient to a wide variety of cleaning products. Harsh, abrasive products can damage granite stone worktops.
Heat Resistance
Granite and composite worktops are both heat resistant. We always recommend practising caution when resting hot pans and utensils on all surfaces. Although granite and composite materials can withstand heat, repeated exposure will eventually result in damage. Be aware of this when considering using either in your home.
Maintenance
Some stone worktops are notoriously difficult to maintain. It’s for this reason that many people choose composite materials for work surfaces. Granite is exceptional in this regard as it is a natural stone that is easy to maintain. Especially when you compare it to other stones such as marble.
A granite worktop offers a rusticity that is lost with composite materials. Yet, like engineered worktops, requires little maintenance.
That’s not to say no maintenance at all is okay for granite worktops. It’s still a natural stone and therefore porous. Sealing is still required at least once or twice a year.
Installation
Like all stone worktops, granite is very heavy. Installation costs are higher in comparison to installation costs of composite kitchen worktops.
Aesthetics
Aesthetics really come down to personal preference. A granite worktop is seen as more traditional and luxurious. Especially when imbued colours like jet black and gold are sheened with polish.
The versatile specks of glass or mirrored chips in quartz worktops, bring life to rooms that need some serious sprucing up. Although subdued colours with matte finishes are particularly popular right now.
However, every piece of stone is different. Meaning the patterns you get are guaranteed to be entirely unique to your home.
Which is Better?
Let’s summarise the main points in each category.
Durability
- Both materials are highly durable, tough and hard
- However, the durability of natural stone can vary, unlike the consistency found in composite materials
Stain Resistance
- Both materials are highly stain resistant
- Both materials need regular cleaning after everyday use
- Composite materials are more resilient to a wide variety of cleaning materials
- When cleaning granite, only water, gentle dish soap and soft microfiber cloths should be used
Heat Resistance
- Both materials are highly resistant to heat
- However, extra care should be made to avoid regular contact with hot utensils
Maintenance
- Both materials require fairly low maintenance
- Although granite should be sealed once or twice a year
Installation
- Granite is heavier than composite materials, which generally makes it more expensive to install
Get in touch for more information on granite and composite worktops. We’re more than happy to help you find the perfect worktop for your home.
