Quartz vs Other Surfaces: Why It’s a Favourite in UK Kitchens

You are designing your DIY dream kitchen, and suddenly you are facing so many choices for worktop materials. It can feel overwhelming, right? There are dozens of options out there – granite, marble, laminate, wood, and more. Homeowners often feel completely confused, wondering which one is the best for their space. But strangely, there is one material that consistently stands out and seems to avoid all doubt amidst all this confusion: “Quartz”. It is trending everywhere, and for good reason.

So, why is quartz quickly becoming the undisputed champion of kitchen worktops all over the UK? It really boils down to a few key advantages. Quartz Stone Worktops offers incredible durability, resisting scratches, stains, and heat like a pro. It is also non-porous, which means it is super hygienic and an easy to clean surface. Plus, the design flexibility is unmatched in giving you that perfect look. These qualities make quartz an unbeatable choice for any busy, modern kitchen.

In this guide, we are going to share why quartz is the top best material for kitchen countertops. We will specifically compare quartz worktops against other popular kitchen surfaces: granite and marble. That’s how we will show you exactly why quartz top kitchens are not just a trend, but a superior choice for your sweetest home.

A Quick Comparison Table Between Quartz vs Granite vs Marble

If you are looking for the best material for your newest or renovating kitchen worktops, here is a comparison table highlighting the key differences between Quartz, Granite, and Marble.

This table clearly shows quartz’s strengths, positioning it as a top contender. But is it truly the undisputed champion for your premium kitchen? Although it wins in many areas, sharing this comprehensive comparison guide will reveal if white stone worktop made of quartz perfectly aligns with your specific needs and preferences.

Let’s find out!

Top 10 Features of Comparison Between Quartz vs Granite vs Marble

Stop your research on the best “quartz worktops near me!” Why we are saying that? We know that you’ll get stuck in between so many natural stones with so many names, benefits, and meanings. So, we have compared the top three natural stone worktops available in the UK in this section. Yes, we are doing a battle between quartz vs granite vs marble.

Let’s begin with our top 10 features of comparison and see who wins in the end! We will also share our favourite kitchen quartz worktops colours and patterns available at MO’s STONEX for instant gratification and approval to get installed in your kitchens and bathrooms.

So…let’s read on with blessings of nature and universe!

• Durability

Let’s see how quartz, granite, and marble stack up against daily wear and tear. We’ll look at their toughness, scratch resistance, and how they handle life’s little mishaps.

Quartz

You are looking for a kitchen stone worktop that can handle your daily life. Quartz is amazing for this. It is an engineered stone, meaning it is made from natural quartz minerals mixed with resins. This makes it incredibly tough. It stands up beautifully to everyday bumps and scrapes.

As a result, you will not easily scratch it, and it resists chips really well. Not only that, it is built to last, keeping your kitchen looking fantastic for years. This durability is a huge reason why so many UK homeowners are choosing it for their busy homes. So, it’s a long-term investment.

Granite

On the other hand, granite is a classic natural stone, formed over millions of years deep within the earth. It is known for being very hard and durable. Just like quartz, it is quite resistant to scratches and can handle high temperatures. Many people love its natural strength and unique appearance.

Moreover, each slab is one-of-a-kind, bringing a piece of geological history into your home. While it is robust, it is also a porous material. This means it needs proper sealing to maintain its resilience against stains. Thus, it is a strong contender, but it does require a bit more care than quartz.

Marble

Marble is famous for its luxurious and elegant look. It is a natural stone worktop material with beautiful veining, adding a touch of timeless sophistication to any kitchen. However, when we talk about durability for a busy worktop, marble is on the softer side compared to quartz or granite.

Furthermore, it is more susceptible to scratches, chips, and etching from acids like lemon juice or wine. Also, it’s very porous. This means it stains easily if not meticulously sealed and maintained. While stunning, marble demands a higher level of care and is often chosen more for its aesthetic appeal than its practical resilience in a high-traffic kitchen.

Who Wins?

• Stain Resistance

You want a natural stone-like worktop that can handle spills without a fuss, don’t you? Stain resistance is super important in any kitchen. Let’s explore how well quartz, granite, and marble cope with common kitchen culprits like coffee, wine, or oil.

Quartz

When it comes to spills, quartz is a real champion. This is because it is engineered to be completely non-porous. Liquids simply sit on the surface; they don’t get absorbed. This means spills like red wine, coffee, or olive oil are much less likely to leave a permanent mark.

More importantly, you can just wipe them away with ease. This sealed, non-absorbent quality makes quartz incredibly resistant to staining. As a result, it guarantees your quartz kitchen countertops keeps its pristine look even after years of daily use. No doubt, it is built for a busy and real-life kitchen.

Granite

Granite, being a natural stone, has a degree of porosity. This means it can absorb liquids if not properly cared for. While naturally quite dense, granite needs to be sealed periodically to make it stain-resistant.

If you spill something like a dark juice or oil and don’t wipe it up quickly, it can seep into the stone and cause a stain. Regular sealing, usually once a year, helps to create a barrier and protect your granite worktop. Without proper maintenance, granite is more vulnerable to stubborn stains than quartz.

Marble

Let’s talk about stain resistance properties of marble. It is the most vulnerable of the three when it comes to staining. It is a very porous natural stone, and it’s beautiful with light colouration that will make stains highly visible. Acids, like lemon juice or vinegar, can also etch the surface, leaving dull spots.

Any liquid, especially dark ones like coffee, red wine, or berry juice, needs to be wiped up immediately to prevent it from soaking in and leaving a permanent mark. Marble absolutely requires frequent and diligent sealing to offer even a moderate level of stain resistance. It is a high-maintenance choice for spill-prone areas.

Who Wins?

• Heat Resistance

You’re cooking, and sometimes hot pans come off the hob. Can your worktop take the heat? This is super important for everyday kitchen safety and longevity. Let’s compare how quartz, granite, and marble handle high temperatures.

Quartz

First, quartz countertops offer good heat resistance. Thanks to the natural quartz minerals within them. However, it is important to remember that quartz also contains resins. These resins can be susceptible to damage from extreme, concentrated heat.

That’s why placing a very hot pan directly from the hob or oven onto a quartz surface without a trivet can cause scorching, discolouration, or even cracking. Although it is robust, it is always recommended to use heat mats or trivets to protect your quartz worktop from direct high heat. Always ensure it stays looking perfect.

Granite

Next, granite is a champion when it comes to heat resistance. As a natural igneous rock, it is formed under intense heat and pressure. So, it can handle very high temperatures without any problems. You can confidently place hot pots and pans directly from the oven or hob onto a granite surface.

And you can do it without fear of scorching, heat burns, discolouration, or cracking. This makes granite incredibly practical for a busy kitchen where you might forget a trivet. Its natural composition gives it a distinct advantage in this category. So, it offers superb peace of mind regarding heat damage.

Marble

Now let’s come to marble. Its heat resistance property is considerably lower than granite’s and even quartz’s. While it can withstand moderate heat, direct exposure to hot pots and pans can cause thermal shock. This can lead to discolouration, yellowing, or even cracking

Moreover, its porous nature and softer composition make it more vulnerable to heat damage. You absolutely need to use trivets or hot pads consistently when placing anything warm on a marble worktop. Hence, relying on its inherent heat resistance for hot items is risky and can quickly mar its beautiful surface.

Who Wins?

• Maintenance

You need a white kitchen worktop that looks great without endless fuss. Easy maintenance is a huge factor for any busy kitchen. Let’s explore how much effort quartz, granite, and marble require to keep them looking their best day after day.

Quartz

Keeping quartz worktops new and clean is remarkably simple. Because of their non-porous surface, they never need sealing. You will never have to worry about applying special treatments year after year. Most spills and daily grime wipe away effortlessly with just a damp cloth and mild soap.

This low-maintenance quality makes quartz a dream for busy households. You spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your kitchen. It’s 100% a hassle-free option that maintains its beauty with minimal effort.

Granite

Granite worktops do need a bit more attention than quartz. As a natural stone, granite is porous. This means it requires regular sealing to protect it from stains and moisture absorption. You will typically need to re-seal your granite every 6 to 12 months.

It depends on how often it is used and the type of sealer. In addition to that, cleaning daily spills is usually straightforward with mild soap, but overlooking sealing can lead to visible marks. It is a beautiful material, but be prepared for that ongoing sealing commitment to keep it looking its best.

Marble

On the flip side, marble is undeniably high-maintenance. Its natural porosity and softer composition mean it demands the most diligent care. Regular and frequent sealing is absolutely essential to provide even a basic level of stain resistance.

Beyond sealing, you must clean up spills immediately, especially acidic ones, as they can etch the surface. Abrasive cleaners or scrubbers can also damage its delicate finish. While stunning, marble requires consistent attention, gentle cleaning products, and a willingness to accept its tendency to develop a unique “patina” over time.

Who Wins?

• Hygiene

Did you want your kitchen surfaces super clean and safe for food prep? According to our experts’ opinions and homeowners’ reviews, hygiene is a top concern for any homeowner. Let’s look at how well quartz, granite, and marble perform when it comes to keeping germs at bay in your busy kitchen.

Quartz

Quartz is excellent (even exceptional) for kitchen hygiene. Its non-porous surface means there are no tiny holes or crevices for bacteria, viruses, or mould to hide in. Liquids and food particles simply cannot seep into the material. This makes cleaning incredibly effective.

All you need is a quick wipe with a damp cloth and mild detergent removes almost all contaminants. You can have a relaxed mind knowing your quartz worktop is naturally resistant to germ growth. It adds up to a much healthier cooking environment for your family every single day. It is a top choice for a hygienic kitchen.

Granite

Granite, being a natural stone, has a microscopic porosity. While it is generally very dense, it does have tiny capillaries that can potentially absorb liquids. This means that if granite is not properly sealed and regularly re-sealed, it could theoretically harbour bacteria within these pores.

However, granite becomes much more resistant to absorption with consistent sealing. Plus, it can be kept very hygienic with regular cleaning. Proper care is essential to ensure its surface remains safe and sanitary for food preparation. It requires vigilance, but it is a clean surface.

Marble

Marble is the most challenging of the three when it comes to maintaining optimal hygiene. Its high porosity means it readily absorbs liquids. If not promptly cleaned and frequently sealed, spilled food or moisture can easily seep into the stone. It can create an environment where bacteria will thrive.

Intricate veining also presents more surface area for potential contaminants. While regular cleaning with appropriate and gentle products is necessary, marble demands the most diligent sealing. So, careful attention to spills are required to ensure it remains as hygienic as possible in a busy kitchen setting.

Who Wins?

• Appearance

You want your kitchen to look stunning, don’t you? The visual appeal of your worktop is a huge part of your kitchen’s overall design. Let’s walk through the unique beauty each material brings and how they contribute to your home’s aesthetic.

Quartz

Quartz offers an incredibly wide range of appearances, giving you fantastic design flexibility. This is because it is engineered. Its manufacturers like MO’s STONEX can control the colour and pattern. This means you can find quartz with very consistent patterns, uniform colours, or even designs.

Interestingly, all of them will definitely mimic natural stone worktops with beautiful veining. You can choose from crisp whites, bold blacks, subtle greys, or vibrant colours. This predictability in quartz stone worktop appearance is a major plus for many homeowners.

Here, you know exactly what you are getting. Our professional ensures your kitchen vision comes to life perfectly.

Granite

Contrarily, granite brings the raw beauty of nature right into your British kitchen. Moreover, each slab is completely unique, with its own distinct patterns, speckles, and variations in colour. No two granite worktops will ever be exactly alike.

This natural individuality is a huge draw for those who appreciate organic beauty and a one-of-a-kind look. The patterns are formed by minerals within the stone, creating everything from subtle flecks to bold, dramatic movements. So, choosing granite means embracing a piece of natural art that makes a statement in your home.

Marble

Marble is renowned for its timeless elegance and luxurious appearance. Its signature feature is the soft and swirling veins. They gracefully move across the surface while creating stunning and often dramatic patterns. This natural veining can range from delicate wisps to bold, contrasting lines.

Typically, marble comes in classic shades of white, grey, and black, but also pinks and greens. It adds an immediate sense of grandeur and sophistication to any space. The aesthetic appeal of marble is unparalleled for those seeking a high-end, classic, and artistic look in their kitchen.

Who Wins?

• Design Control

You want your kitchen to look exactly as you’ve envisioned it, don’t you? It is important to have control over the final design. Let’s see how much influence you have over the look and consistency of quartz, granite, and marble worktops.

Quartz

Quartz offers you maximum design control. Because it is an engineered material, you can select specific colours, patterns, and finishes with high confidence. You will know exactly what your worktop will look like before it is even installed. This consistency is a huge advantage for larger kitchens.

Or, quartz stone worktops work best if you want a uniform look across multiple surfaces. Manufacturers can create a vast array of styles, from solid colours to intricate veining that mimics natural stone. This control of colours, designs, and styles will help you achieve your precise kitchen vision incredibly straightforward and predictable.

Granite

With granite, nature is the ultimate designer. While you can choose a slab based on its overall appearance, each piece is unique. You will find variations in veining, mineral deposits, and colour distribution from one slab to another, even within the same quarry batch.

This means there is less direct “design control” in the manufacturing sense. You choose the slab that appeals to you. This embraces its inherent natural beauty and individuality. Also, this uniqueness is a major draw for some, but it does mean less predictability compared to engineered quartz.

Marble

Marble, much like granite, is a product of nature, so direct design control is limited. Its beauty lies in its natural, unique veining and colour variations. You select a specific slab for your project, understanding that no two pieces will be identical.

This organic individuality is what gives marble its classic, luxurious appeal. You are essentially choosing a piece of natural art. While you can select preferred patterns from available slabs, you can’t design the pattern itself as you can with engineered quartz. It is about appreciating nature’s artistry.

Who Wins?

• Cost of Quartz vs Granite vs Marble

You’re likely thinking about your budget, right? The cost of a new worktop is a big part of any kitchen project. Let’s break down the general price ranges for quartz, granite, and marble, helping you understand what to expect for your UK home.

Quartz

Quartz worktops generally fall into the mid to high price range. Their cost can vary quite a bit depending on the specific brand, the complexity of the pattern, and the thickness you choose. Simpler, more common colours are more affordable. On the flip side, exotic patterns or those mimicking high-end marble can be pricier.

Installation costs also play a role, as professional fitting is almost always needed due to the material’s weight and the precision required for cuts. Overall, quartz offers a fantastic balance of upfront cost and long-term value due to its durability and low maintenance.

Granite

Granite worktops also typically sit in the mid to high price bracket, similar to quartz. The cost of granite is heavily influenced by its rarity, colour, and unique patterning. Common granite types can be quite affordable, while exotic colours or very distinct patterns will drive the price up significantly.

The thickness of the slab and any complex edge profiles also add to the overall cost. Since granite is a natural stone, each slab is unique, and pricing can reflect the specific characteristics and demand for that particular piece.

Marble

Marble is often considered the most luxurious and, typically, the most expensive option among the three. Its premium price reflects its natural beauty, unique veining, and the effort involved in quarrying and finishing. The rarity of certain marble types and the complexity of their patterns can push the cost even higher.

Beyond the initial purchase, you should also factor in the ongoing maintenance costs, such as regular professional sealing, which adds to the lifetime expense. Marble is a true investment in aesthetics, but it comes with a premium price tag.

Who Wins?

• Resale Value

What if you are investing in your home, and naturally, you want that investment to pay off later? How your worktop choice impacts your property’s resale value is a smart consideration. Let’s see which material adds the most appeal to potential buyers in the UK market.

Quartz

Installing quartz worktops can significantly boost your home’s appeal and resale value. Buyers in the UK often view quartz as a premium, modern, and highly desirable feature. Its combination of durability, low maintenance, and consistent, attractive appearance makes it a strong selling point.

Moreover, a kitchen with well-maintained quartz surfaces signals quality and contemporary style to prospective buyers. They appreciate a move-in-ready home with durable, hygienic finishes. This often means a faster sale and a higher selling price, making quartz a very wise investment for future value.

Granite

Granite has long been a symbol of luxury and quality in UK homes, and it continues to hold strong appeal for potential buyers. Its natural beauty and unique patterns are highly valued. Homes featuring granite worktops are often perceived as upscale and well-maintained.

While it requires a bit more maintenance than quartz, its enduring popularity and robust nature still contribute positively to resale value. Buyers often see granite as a testament to the home’s quality and an investment that will last. It remains a solid choice for enhancing property appeal.

Marble

Marble worktops instantly evoke images of luxury and high-end design, which can certainly enhance your home’s perceived value. For a certain segment of buyers who prioritise classic elegance and unique aesthetics, marble can be a significant draw. However, its high maintenance requirements and susceptibility to etching and staining might be a concern for some. While it adds a touch of undeniable sophistication, its practical limitations for a busy family kitchen might slightly temper its universal appeal compared to the more forgiving options like quartz or granite for a broad buyer pool.

Who Wins?

• Outdoor Use

You might be dreaming of an outdoor kitchen or a stunning patio area, right? It is important to know if your chosen worktop can handle the elements. Let’s compare how quartz, granite, and marble stand up to the sun, rain, and temperature changes found in outdoor settings.

Quartz

Quartz worktops are generally not recommended for outdoor use. The resins that bind the quartz minerals, while excellent for indoor durability, are typically not UV-stable. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause these resins to break down. As a result, it leads to discolouration, fading, and even warping or cracking over time.

Although some manufacturers offer specific outdoor-grade quartz, most standard quartz worktops are designed exclusively for indoor environments. If you are planning an outdoor kitchen, it is safer to look at materials specifically engineered for external conditions to ensure longevity.

Granite

Granite is an excellent choice for outdoor use. As a natural stone formed under extreme geological conditions, it is incredibly robust and highly resistant to the elements. It can withstand intense sun, rain, snow, and significant temperature fluctuations without fading, cracking, or warping. Its natural composition makes it inherently UV-stable.

Furthermore, many outdoor kitchens, barbecues, and patio counters feature granite for its durability and ability to maintain its appearance year after year, even in harsh weather. It is a truly reliable material for outdoor living spaces.

Marble

Marble is not generally recommended for outdoor use, especially in areas exposed to harsh weather or strong sunlight. Its porous nature makes it highly susceptible to etching from acid rain and staining from environmental factors. Prolonged UV exposure can also cause discolouration and yellowing.

This diminishes its aesthetic appeal. Furthermore, freezing and thawing cycles can cause marble to crack or spall. While undeniably beautiful, the delicate nature of marble means it’s best reserved for indoor and protected environments where its pristine condition can be carefully maintained.

Who Wins?

Conclusion

So…we have come to the wrap-up of our guide about kitchen quartz worktops vs granite and marble. Here’s how they scored out of 10 features, with the highest score winning each round:

• Quartz: 7/10 wins (Durability, Stain Resistance, Maintenance, Hygiene, Design Control, Resale Value, Cost – based on overall value)
• Granite: 2/10 wins (Heat Resistance, Outdoor Use)
• Marble: 0/10 wins

Based on these comparisons, Quartz emerges as the overall winner. It offers the most comprehensive balance of practicality and style. It is the top choice for most modern UK kitchens. Similarly, if we do a comparison overview between quartz vs soapstone and quartz vs quartzite, we already know that quartz is the ultimate winner here, too. Why? Well, its reasons clearly shows that it is the only solution in place of any type of natural stone if that’s granite, marble, laminate, soapstone, or quartzite countertops.

If you are searching for the best “quartz near me in the UK,” MO’s STONEX is available to hear from you, 24/7. Contact us directly at 01923223859 or 07432065334. Or, send an email at info@mosstonex.co.uk. 

Click here to get a free quote or a free brochure for our quartz kitchen worktops UK.