A Comparative Guide To Quartz And Granite Worktops
This comparative guide aims
to provide an insightful overview of both. We hope to highlight their distinct
features and advantages. Furthermore, these considerations can help you make an
informed decision for your home.
Composition
And Origins
Granite is a natural
igneous rock formed from magma's cooling and solidification. This happens deep
within the earth's crust. Thus, it is composed of a multitude of minerals, such
as quartz, feldspar, and mica - just to name a few. Ultimately, this
distinctive mineral composition gives Granite Worktops in Welwyn Garden City its characteristic patterns.
Some patterns are easily
recognizable as they’re more common. At the same time, there is a large
variety. The composition of minerals varies from place to place, offering so
many possibilities. So be sure to look far and wide for your kitchen.
On the other hand, Quartz
Worktops in Welwyn Garden City are engineered in factories. Crushed natural
quartz crystals make up 90 to 95% of its composition. The rest is a combination
of polymers, resins, and pigments. This process results in a wide range of
shades, patterns, and textures. Besides, one can also customize it and give the
worktop a personalized touch.
Appearance
And Aesthetics
Granite Worktops have
distinct natural beauty. Moreover, each slab displays a remarkable veining
design and pattern. This is enhanced by amazing colour variations. When you opt
for granite worktops, you pick classic and timeless aesthetics for your space.
Eventually, it can enhance both traditional and modern interior designs.
Quartz Worktops offer a
wider range of colours compared to granite. Further, it also offers consistency
in shade and pattern because it is engineered. To add to this, they can mimic
natural stone, including marble and granite. One also gets way more control
over the design and colour options.
Durability
And Strength
Granite is already well
known for its exceptional durability and heat resistance. Also, it is scratch
resistant and can withstand heavy impact. It is ideal for high-traffic areas.
Not to mention, it will maintain its polished finish for many years. Of course,
this is as long as it is properly maintained.
Moreover, quartz worktops
are also highly durable, thanks to their composition. They are stain resistant,
but more importantly, they resist scratches. Besides, they are not affected by
pressure or sharp impact. This makes them a great choice for busy kitchens and
bathrooms.
Maintenance
And Care
Granite Worktops in Welwyn
Garden City require perioding sealing. It will prevent staining and maintain
the lustre of the stone. Moreover, regular cleaning with mild soap and water is
sufficient.
Additionally, acidic
substances should be cleaned as soon as possible. If not, it can result in
etching. As long as it is sealed regularly, maintenance is easy.
Quartz Worktops in Welwyn Garden City are virtually maintenance-free. They don’t need to be
sealed. They can be cleaned with mild soap and water like granite. Their
surface is non-porous, and this prevents bacteria growth. Thus making it highly
hygienic and suitable for the kitchen. After all, safety in food prep is most
important.
Hygiene
And Cleanliness
Granite is often considered
hygienic. You should keep in mind that they’re naturally porous. If they’re not
sealed and maintained, they may harbour bacteria.
Quartz is completely
non-porous and is resistant to bacteria growth. They’re ideal if you have small
children and must adhere to utmost kitchen safety.
Cost
Considerations
Granite cost can vary based
on its rarity, size, and location. Generally, granite is more budget-friendly
than quartz. Luxurious and exotic granite can be very expensive. The price
depends mostly on where you’re located and what’s available there.
Additionally, the thicker slab you prefer, the more it will cost. You can opt
for local slabs to reduce the price of your worktop. Still, installation can be
pricey.
You will find quartz
available at a wide price range which is affected by the:
●
Brand
●
The
complexity of the design
●
Thickness
Some quartz worktops can be
pricier than granite. They’re durable, low-maintenance, and add great value for
the price. You may have to weigh what's important to you before you finalize.
Installation
And Customization
Moreover, granite
installation requires professional expertise. Mostly because it is quite heavy
and fragile at the same time. With granite, your customization options are
highly limited. To be specific, customization depends on the available slabs.
Besides, quartz worktops
are far more flexible regarding customization. You can design precise sizes,
designs, and hues for it. Also, they’re lighter in weight and are easier to
handle during installation. Thus making it convenient for a variety of design
preferences.
Environmental
Impact
Continuing the debate...
Granite is a natural stone
and is quarried. Quarrying and extracting granite can leave an impact on the
environment. However, choosing local granite through suppliers using
sustainable practices mitigates this concern. Plus, reclaimed or salvaged
granite can facilitate this issue even further.
Bonus points? The worktops
can be reused and repurposed for construction, landscaping, and more.
Quartz worktops, as you
know by now, are manufactured. This process is typically highly energy intensive.
On the contrary, some manufacturers offer eco-friendly options too. Quartz can
also be made using recycled materials, thus effectively decreasing its
environmental footprint. Furthermore, quartz worktops can be recycled to make
more worktops.
Conclusion
Deciding between granite
and quartz comes down to personal preference, lifestyle, and design goals. Both
have their benefits, and you should prefer what feels best.
Comments
Post a Comment