Worktops are one of the key elements in any kitchen space. Not only does it impact the way your kitchen looks but it will impact the way you use it too. Therefore, getting that worktop material right is a must.
To help you find the right stone worktop, we’ve created this quick guide. We’ve chosen the three most popular stones out there; granite, quartz and marble and we’ve broken it down to show that each have their own pros and cons.
It’s these pros and cons that you’ll want to take a look at, to make sure you’re choosing the worktop that allows you to live in your home in a way that suits you and your family.
GRANITE WORKTOPS
Granite is a hard wearing stone and is known for its classic grainy appearance. It’s a truly durable worktop however it does need a little maintenance through professional sealant every year or two in order to ensure it’s stain resistant. Let’s take a look at it’s pros and cons…
Pros:
- Very tough and durable.
- Stain and scratch resistant.
- Heat Resistant.
Cons:
- Very heavy for some cabinets that aren’t built to withstand them
- Can chip around the edges
- They need sealing professionally to remain non-porous
MARBLE WORKTOPS
Marble worktops are synonymous with luxury and expense. They’re nothing short of stunning. Formed from limestone and mined throughout the world, this natural stone is simply incredible.
It’s famous for its beautiful veins that run through it, never the same. It can be budget-friendly, depending on where you purchase it from however it’s worth noting that on a scale, it comes out more expensive than granite and quartz. Let’s take a look at it’s pros and cons…
Pros:
- It’s incredibly heat resistant, making it great for bakers
- It comes available in a host of different colours and textures, with each slab being totally unique
- It can vary in it’s price, which means you’ll likely find another type of marble within your budget at some point
Cons:
- While it is indeed strong, it’s not as durable as quartz
- It can stain easily when acids meet this material
- Depending on what you’re looking at, prices can actually zoom making it super expensive
QUARTZ WORKTOPS
Quartz, while it does contain natural stone, is a rather man-made creation combining natural stone with a resin mix. This results in a heavy-duty material that doesn’t just look good but functions very well too. It’s become hugely popular in homes here in the UK and for good reason too. Let’s take a look at it’s pros and cons…
Pros:
- Super tough and durable
- Easy to maintain
- Doesn’t stain or crack very easily
- Antibacterial properties
Cons:
- Extremely heavy – needs professional installation
- Not as heat resistant as other stones
- May not be suitable for larger worktop areas
WHAT’S BEST FOR YOU?
When it comes down to it, all three of these options are fantastic but you need to ask yourself, what are you most looking for? Do you want maintenance free? Then quartz may be your best option and granite is most certainly not for you.
Are you on a budget? Then we’d suggest quartz over marble. Are you looking for a stone that’s guaranteed to help increase the value of the property you’re in? Then you can’t go wrong with granite or marble. Or are you simply looking for something that screams luxury and opulence? Then marble is your best bet.
When it comes down to it, you need to consider your budget and then work your way through the pros and cons. What can you live with? But more importantly, what can’t you live with?
If you’d like further help, simply contact us today at The Only Way is Granite for more information. Call 01277 800 023 now.