Are you wondering ‘What’s the difference between quartz stone and natural stone benchtops?”
Both of them offer plenty of benefits that are worth knowing before buying stone for your kitchen countertops. To help you choose the right one for your specific need, Master Tops is here with a helpful comparison guide.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the different qualities of natural stones and quartz stone. We’ll discuss their pros and cons in depth. So, you can easily decide which type of stone will best satisfy your aesthetic and functional requirements.
So, let’s get started.
Natural Stone Benchtops
Natural stones are exactly what their name suggests. They are formed by nature and have been quarried from the earth over millions of years. The best natural stones, such as marble, granite, and travertine, offer both functionality and aesthetic appeal. For many homeowners, natural stone remains a top choice due to its everlasting beauty and durability.
Pros of Natural Stone Benchtops
Durability and Longevity
Natural stone is incredibly strong. Materials like granite and marble can last for decades with proper care. This durability makes them a long-term investment for any home. Their ability to withstand heat, scratching, and general wear and tear makes natural stones for countertops an excellent choice for busy kitchens.
Unique Designs / Variety of Styles
No two pieces of natural stone are same. Each slab has its own unique veining and colour variations. This offers a distinct look and variety of styles to suit any space. Whether you choose marble for a luxurious feel or granite benchtops for a more rugged appearance, these materials are guaranteed to make an impression. Thus, you can find a stone that fits your design preferences.
Heat and UV Resistance
Natural stone benchtops are naturally heat resistant. They are ideal for kitchens where hot pots and pans are common. Additionally, materials like granite and travertine are UV resistant. Which means they can withstand prolonged sun exposure without fading or deteriorating. Hence, you can get a perfect benchtop for alfresco or outdoor kitchens.
Aesthetic Appeal
The beauty of natural stone benchtops is second to none. Each stone slab offers a one-of-a-kind look. Whether it's marble with its elegant veining or granite with its bold patterns.
Increases Property Value
Installing natural stone kitchen benchtops significantly increases the resale value of your home. These materials are highly sought after. It can make your home more attractive to potential buyers. All because of their luxurious look and long-lasting nature.
Eco-Friendly Choice
One of the most obvious benefits of natural stone benchtops is their minimal environmental impact. It’s because they are quarried directly from the earth without extensive chemical These materials don't emit harmful substances into your home. Proving to be a safe option for your kitchen and bathroom vanities.
Cons of Natural Stone
Cost
Natural stone can be more expensive than quartz stone due to the cost of extraction, transportation, and installation. Additionally, rarer stones such as marble or quartzite can come with a higher price tag.
Maintenance
Some natural stones, particularly marble, are porous and can stain if not properly sealed. So, consider regular sealing and polishing to maintain the appearance and functionality of these materials.
Quartz Stone Benchtops
Quartz stone, also known as quartz stone, is a man-made material composed of crushed stone (usually quartz) and resin. These materials are quartz in a way that mimics the look of natural stones. They offer additional durability and ease of maintenance.
Pros of Quartz Stone
Consistent Appearance
One of the main benefits of quartz stone benchtops is their uniformity. Because they are man-made, they offer consistent colour and pattern throughout the slab. This ensures that your benchtop will look exactly as you expect. No surprises in terms of variations.
Superior Durability
Quartz stone surfaces are made from quartz, which is one of the hardest minerals on earth. As a result, these benchtops are highly resistant to scratches, chips, and stains, making them more durable than some types of natural stone benchtops.
Low Maintenance
Quartz stone does not require regular sealing or maintenance to preserve its appearance. Its non-porous surface means it won't absorb liquids or harbor bacteria. Thus, it’s easy to clean and maintain.
Heat and Chemical Resistance
Quartz stone is designed to withstand extreme heat and harsh chemicals. This makes them an ideal choice for homes with children or high-traffic areas.
Wide Range of Designs
You can choose from a wide range of colours and patterns. Many of quartz stones imitate the look of natural stone benchtops. This flexibility allows you to create the perfect design for your space. Be it a modern, minimalist kitchen or a classic, traditional look.
Cons of Quartz Stone Benchtops
Heat Sensitivity
Quartz stone is not as heat resistant as natural stones. Extreme heat can damage the resin in the stone. So, it's recommended to use trivets or other protective measures when placing hot pots or pans on these surfaces.
Less Natural Appeal
Though they mimic natural stones, but they often lack the depth and organic beauty of genuine materials like granite or marble. If you're looking for a completely natural aesthetic, quartz stone would not be the best choice.
Quartz Stone vs. Natural Stone | Easy Comparison Table
Feature | Natural Stone | Quartz Stone |
Appearance | Unique stone slabs with natural veining and colour variations. | Slabs with consistent colour and pattern. |
Durability | Highly durable Sometimes, susceptible to chips and scratches. | Extremely durable Highly resistant to chips, scratches, and stains. |
Maintenance | Needs periodic sealing to prevent staining and maintain its finish. | Doesn’t need sealing. Easy to clean with regular household cleaners. |
Heat and UV Resistance | Naturally resistant to heat and UV rays. Ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. | Not as durable and resistant to heat as natural stone. Needs protection against extreme temperatures and direct sun exposure to avoid fading. |
Cost | Expensive due to the cost of quarrying, transporting, and finishing. | Affordable |
The Verdict | Quartz Stone or Natural Stone?
When selecting between natural stone and quartz stone for your kitchen or bathroom benchtops, don’t just consider the aesthetics, look for the practicality of the material as well.
If you need a truly unique, luxurious look with the timeless beauty of natural stones, and you don’t mind investing in some maintenance, natural stone benchtops are an excellent choice. However, if you prioritise low maintenance, durability, and consistent appearance, quartz stone offers a practical and stylish solution.
Both options bring their own benefits, so the decision should be based on how you plan to use the space and your personal style preferences.
Are you looking for the best natural stone slabs for your home?
Contact Master Tops | Your Trusted Source for Premium Natural Stone Benchtops in Perth
With over 20 years of combined experience, we ensure you receive top-notch craftsmanship and customer service. If you are looking for high-end affordable silica-free benchtops, contact Master Tops on (08) 6161 1969 today.
FAQs About Quartz vs. Natural Stone
Q1: Is natural stone better than quartz stone?
Natural stone and quartz stone both have their own benefits. Quartz stone surface is non-porous and made from quartz. Which is one of the hardest minerals on earth. This gives it superior durability compared to natural stone. While natural stones are resistant to scratches and chips, but can still be vulnerable over time.
Q2: What is the best stone for kitchen benchtops?
Granite, limestone, dekton and marble are the most popular natural stones for kitchen benchtops. Among these, granite is the hardest and most durable option. Particularly well-suited for kitchen environments.
Q3: What are the disadvantages of quartz stone benchtops?
Quartz stone is a blend of stone and resin. This makes it sensitive to high heat. Placing a hot pan directly on the surface can damage it, leading to cracks. It’s always best to use a hot pad or trivet to protect the surface from heat damage.
Q4: What’s the best quartz stone alternative?
Builders are likely to turn to porcelain as an alternative to quartz stone. These materials can be produced across various price points. Providing options similar to those previously available with quartz stone.