FAQ

Granite House FAQs

What is the difference between granite & quartz worktops?

Granite is an entirely natural product and once quarried is only polished before delivery to us. each slab is unique and the colour and patterns may vary very slightly from one batch to another, although we usually match the colour and pattern for each project.

Quartz is manufactured by crushing quartz with resins and dyes to form uniform slabs and is sourced from top manufacturers such as Caesarstone, Silestone, Infinitistone and others.

Generally, granite tops are slightly more expensive than quartz, although depending on the manufacturer’s rating (group 1 to 6) the reverse can also be true. Cost also depends on the thickness of the material, between 20mm and 40mm, with 30mm being the average.

Which is more suitable?

Quartz is non-porous, which makes it extremely stain resistant, whereas granite is naturally porous and is permanently sealed after installation to repel liquids. both materials are highly resistant to heat and scratching, so performance-wise there is very little to choose between them. Upon installation, You will receive a free granite house guide to the care and maintenance of your bespoke worktops.

Where can I compare samples of different materials and colours?

Our extensive showrooms display a tremendous variety of readily available natural granite, quartz and other surfaces. if we don’t have the exact colour/pattern you prefer in stock, we will source your choice directly from our importer or manufacturer. this website displays most of our available materials, just click on the worktops icon in the products section.

How long will it take?

The normal turnaround from templating to installation is five working days, for example, template Monday, and installation the following Monday.

However certain non-standard surfaces such as porcelain will take longer but our dedicated customer services team will advise you of specific dates and times before manufacture.

When do I pay?

Retail:

(A) £250 deposit at the point of order (if stocked material – such as Infiniti)

The remaining balance is to be collected, before Fabrication (which allows for any adjustments to be carried out following the template & Analysis)

(B) 50% deposit at the point of order (if NOT stocked item and material needs to be ordered)

The remaining balance is to be collected, before Fabrication (which allows for any adjustments to be carried out following the template & Analysis)

Granite Worktop FAQs

Are granite worktops worth the money?

Absolutely, granite worktops are worth the investment! Here’s why:

  • Durability: Granite is one of the toughest natural stones available, making it highly durable and long-lasting. It can withstand everyday wear and tear, resist scratches, and handle heavy objects without easily chipping or cracking. With proper care, granite worktops can retain their beauty and functionality for decades.
  • Aesthetics: Granite worktops offer timeless elegance and add a touch of luxury to any kitchen or bathroom. With its natural beauty, unique patterns, and wide range of colours, granite can enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of your space. It brings a sense of sophistication and becomes a focal point that enhances the value of your home.
  • Heat Resistance: Granite is renowned for its exceptional heat resistance. It can handle hot pots, pans, and other cooking utensils without getting damaged or discoloured. This makes it a practical choice for busy kitchens, providing peace of mind and reducing the risk of accidental damage.
  • Value Addition: Installing granite worktops can significantly increase the value of your property. Potential buyers often view granite as a desirable feature due to its durability, beauty, and association with high-end homes. Therefore, it can be seen as a worthwhile investment that not only enhances your daily living experience but also pays off in terms of property value.

Considering the durability, aesthetics, heat resistance, value addition, and low maintenance, granite worktops offer excellent value for money and can be a wise investment for homeowners seeking a high-quality, long-lasting, and visually stunning addition to their kitchen or bathroom.

Which is cheaper granite or quartz worktops?

Traditionally, quartz worktops tend to have a higher initial cost compared to granite. Quartz is a man-made material that undergoes a manufacturing process, which can contribute to its higher price tag. On the other hand, granite is a natural stone that requires quarrying and cutting, but the overall cost can vary depending on the specific type and rarity of the granite.

Installation Expenses: Both granite and quartz worktops require professional installation. The installation costs are usually similar for both materials, as they involve the same processes, such as measuring, cutting, and fitting. However, intricate designs, custom shapes, or complex installations may incur additional charges regardless of the material chosen.

Long-Term Maintenance: Granite worktops typically require periodic sealing to protect against stains and maintain their appearance. This sealing process needs to be repeated every few years. Quartz worktops, on the other hand, are non-porous and do not require sealing. While quartz worktops may have a slightly higher upfront cost, they may require less maintenance and potentially save you money in the long run.

Repair and Replacement: Both granite and quartz worktops are durable, but they can be susceptible to damage in certain circumstances. Granite can chip or crack if subjected to excessive force or impact, while quartz is more resistant to such issues. However, if damage does occur, repairing or replacing quartz worktops can be more challenging and costly due to its engineered nature, whereas granite can be more easily fixed.

Ultimately, the cost comparison between granite and quartz worktops will depend on your specific requirements, preferences, and budget. You should find a few of our worktops that you like and enquire for a list of quotes, that way you can find the best-looking surface for your budget.

Can you get white granite worktops?

Yes, you can absolutely get white granite worktops. While granite is known for its wide range of colours and patterns, white granite is a popular choice for those seeking a clean, bright, and timeless aesthetic in their kitchen or bathroom. White granite typically features a predominantly white base with varying degrees of veining, flecks, or speckles in different shades of white, grey, or even subtle hues of other colours. These natural variations in the stone give each white granite slab a unique and distinctive appearance. White granite worktops can bring a sense of elegance, openness, and versatility to your space, allowing for easy coordination with different design styles and colour schemes. Whether you prefer a pure white look or a white background with subtle patterns, there are various options available to suit your preferences and create a beautiful, light-filled atmosphere.

Can you put a hot pan on granite?

Yes, you can safely place a hot pan on a granite worktop. Granite is renowned for its exceptional heat resistance, making it a suitable surface for placing hot cookware without causing damage or discolouration. The natural properties of granite allow it to withstand high temperatures without being affected. However, it’s always a good practice to use trivets, hot pads, or heat-resistant mats as an extra precautionary measure. These accessories help to minimize direct contact between the hot pan and the granite surface, reducing the risk of any potential heat marks or thermal shock. By using protective items, you can enjoy the benefits of granite’s heat resistance while ensuring the longevity and pristine appearance of your worktop.

How long do granite worktops last?

Granite worktops are known for their exceptional durability and longevity. When properly cared for, granite worktops can last for decades and even a lifetime. Granite is a natural stone that is incredibly hard and resistant to everyday wear and tear. It is highly resistant to scratches, stains, and heat, making it a reliable choice for kitchen and bathroom surfaces.

The lifespan of granite worktops can also depend on factors such as usage, maintenance, and the quality of the installation. Regular cleaning, avoiding harsh chemicals, and promptly wiping up spills can help maintain the appearance and integrity of the worktops.

According to InterNACHI’s Standard Estimated Life Expectancy Chart for Homes, natural stone countertops (such as granite worktops) are expected to last well over 100 years.

Can granite worktops be cut to fit my kitchen?

Yes, granite worktops can be cut to fit your kitchen. Granite is a natural stone that is cut into slabs and then fabricated to fit your kitchen. This process involves cutting the stone to the desired size and shape, as well as polishing the edges and finishing the surface.

To have a granite worktop cut to fit your kitchen, you will need to measure the dimensions of your kitchen and the location of any fixtures, such as sinks or appliances. You will then need to choose a granite slab that is large enough to cover the desired area and have it cut and finished by a fabricator.

It is important to note that granite is a hard and dense stone, and it requires special tools and equipment to cut and finish. It is recommended to hire a professional fabricator to cut and install your granite worktop to ensure a proper and safe installation.

Maintaining a granite worktop

Granite worktops are very durable but not invincible. Your worktop will require some long-term maintenance to prevent damage from heat, chipping and cracking or staining.

When it comes to heat, granite countertops are capable of withstanding high temperatures as granite is a type of igneous rock (simply meaning that it was formed due to cooled lava or magma). However, we do advise against leaving your hot pans on your granite worktops as the sealants can be weakened or become damaged with excessive exposure to heat.

Staining shouldn’t be an issue for a granite countertop if it is cleaned often. Granite is a porous material, meaning that it isn’t entirely resistant to stains. Keeping on top of cleaning your granite worktop should be fairly easy and shouldn’t require anything stronger than warm water and soap.

If your granite worktop has pieces chipped off, you can fix it yourself with a simple repair kit that can be purchased from most hardware stores or online. These are usually rather cheap, around the 10-20 pounds mark. Cracking, on the other hand, is a bigger issue and entirely depends on the specific situation. Sometimes cracks can be filled in with epoxy and polished to the point they are almost invisible but major cracks are much more difficult and require specialist consultations.

Quartz Worktops FAQs

What are the disadvantages of quartz worktops?

Cost: Quartz worktops tend to have a higher initial cost compared to other materials, including granite and laminate. The manufacturing process involved in creating quartz worktops contributes to their higher price. However, it’s worth noting that the exact cost can vary depending on the brand, quality, and design chosen.

Heat Resistance Limitations: While quartz worktops are generally heat resistant, they have limitations. Direct exposure to high heat can cause thermal shock and potentially damage the surface. Placing hot pans or pots without proper insulation, such as trivets or hot pads, can lead to discolouration, cracks, or other thermal damage.

Vulnerability to Chemicals: Quartz worktops can be sensitive to certain chemicals and cleaning agents. Harsh or abrasive cleaners, as well as products containing bleach or acidic substances, should be avoided. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals can cause discolouration or surface damage. 

Not Completely Natural: Unlike granite or other natural stone worktops, quartz is an engineered material. It is made by combining natural quartz particles with resins and pigments. Some homeowners prefer the natural look and feel of authentic stone, which quartz may not fully replicate.

Potential Discolouration with UV Exposure: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause some quartz worktops to fade or discolour over time.

Despite these potential disadvantages, quartz worktops remain a popular choice for many homeowners due to their durability, low maintenance requirements, and wide range of design options.

Are quartz worktops worth the money?

Quartz worktops are an increasingly popular choice for homeowners who are looking for a high-quality, durable surface for their kitchen. Quartz is a natural stone that is composed of 92% quartz and 8% resins and pigments. It’s one of the hardest minerals on earth, making it one of the most durable materials available for worktops. Quartz worktops are also scratch-resistant and heat-resistant, making them ideal for busy kitchens.

In addition, quartz worktops are non-porous, meaning they are less likely to stain than other types of worktops. Quartz worktops also come in a wide range of colours and patterns, giving homeowners the ability to create a bespoke look for their kitchen. Although quartz worktops are more expensive than other countertop materials, they offer several advantages that make them worth the investment.

For more on the advantages of quartz worktops, check out our blog on the benefits of quartz worktops.

Can I put a hot pan on quartz?

It’s best to avoid placing down hot pans or any other kitchen equipment on a quartz worktop directly. Quartz worktops are quite susceptible to extreme heat and can be easily damaged, discoloured or cracked.

You should use trivets on your quartz worktops if you plan to place hot pans or other kitchen equipment on them.

Does white quartz turn yellow?

White quartz can sometimes develop a yellowish tint due to various factors. Here are some possible reasons why white quartz may turn yellow:

Heat Exposure: Continuous exposure to high heat or extreme temperature changes can cause white quartz to yellow over time. Placing hot pans or pots directly on the surface without proper insulation, such as trivets or hot pads, can contribute to thermal shock and result in discolouration.

Sunlight and UV Exposure: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause white quartz to yellow or fade. Ultraviolet (UV) rays can gradually affect the colour stability of the resin used in the quartz material. This is more likely to occur in areas near windows or where the worktop is consistently exposed to sunlight.

Chemical Reactions: Certain chemicals or cleaning agents may react with the resin used in white quartz, leading to yellowing or discolouration. Harsh cleaners, abrasive substances, or those containing bleach or acidic ingredients can potentially cause the surface to change colour over time.

Stains or Residue Build-up: If white quartz is not properly cleaned and maintained, stains or residue from food, oils, or other substances can accumulate on the surface. Over time, this build-up can contribute to a yellowish appearance.

Manufacturing or Installation Issues: In rare cases, the yellowing of white quartz can be attributed to manufacturing defects or improper installation. Issues such as improper curing of the resin, poor quality control, or inadequate sealing can result in discolouration over time.

What can quartz worktops be used for?

Quartz worktops feature an array of characteristics which make them suitable for both kitchen and bathroom worktops.

Their non-porous composition makes kitchen worktops extremely easy to clean and prevents the growth of bacteria. The heat resistance and scratch resistance of quartz worktops make them an excellent fit for kitchens where heat and sharp objects are constantly in use.

These qualities are also why quartz worktops are great for bathrooms as well as kitchens. They’re hygienic, easy to clean, long-lasting and come in a wide variety of styles that can suit any type of bathroom.

Features of quartz worktops

Quartz worktops have a range of features that help them qualify as one of the most popular worktops for kitchens and bathrooms. From aesthetics to hygiene, some features of quartz worktops are:

Aesthetics

Quartz worktops are available in a wide range of colours and styles so that you can find the perfect match for your kitchen, no matter what theme or colour palette you’re aiming for. Whether you’re after a classic white or a bold colour, there’s a quartz worktop available to suit your taste. If you’re thinking about installing a new worktop in your kitchen, quartz is definitely worth considering. Quartz is a durable and stylish option that offers great practical features whilst also offering high-end, versatile looks.

Non-porous

Due to the non-porous properties of quartz worktops, they’re highly resistant to stains. So if you spill something likely to stain other types of worktops, a quick clean-up job will ensure that your quartz worktop remains free of any permanent marks and stains.

In addition to being stain-resistant, the non-porous qualities of quartz worktops help to prevent the growth of bacteria. Since bacteria often grow in the cracks of a kitchen worktop, having a non-porous surface prevents this from happening, making quartz worktops a safer, healthier option for those who are constantly cooking.

Low Maintenance

Unlike marble worktops, quartz worktops require very little maintenance and don’t need sealing like other types of worktops. Mainly due to their non-porous qualities, the scratch resistance, stain resistance and heat resistance of quartz worktops make them perfect for busy kitchens that are frequently in use. Any spillages can be easily cleaned and the impact from knives will more likely blunt the blade than scratch the worktop.

Marble Worktops FAQs

What can marble worktops be used for?

Marble worktops can be used for a variety of purposes, including a reliable surface to prepare food on, an easy-to-clean surface for serving drinks, an edge for a seating area, or as a decorative feature for your kitchen or bathroom.

Worktops tend to be quite durable with an average lifespan of around 10 years. With proper maintenance and care, your worktops can look as good as new many years after installation. Marble worktops are some of the most durable on the market with naturally high resistance to scratches.

Although marble worktops look stunning when used in a kitchen area, they’re easily stained if not treated properly. When used in a bathroom, however, marble worktops are essentially faultless with their incredible durability and aesthetics.

Why choose marble worktops?

When it comes to choosing the right type of worktop for your home, it’s important to consider the traits you want in the worktop, and then select the right type of material for your needs.

When it comes to selecting the right type of marble for your home, you want to make sure that it’s the right type for your kitchen and bathroom. For kitchens, you want to look for a wenge or a buff-coloured marble. These colours go with almost any style of kitchen, and they also go well with modern and contemporary designs.

For bathrooms, you want a type of marble that will go with the rest of the design aesthetic of the space. This may mean looking for a marble that has a lighter colour and more neutral tones so that it works well with the rest of the design aesthetic of the space.

If you’re into darker or more colourful aesthetics, marble should still be an option due to the vast amount of colours it’s available in.

How do you maintain a marble worktop?

Like other natural stones, marble needs proper care and maintenance to look its best. Luckily, keeping your marble worktops looking their best isn’t too hard. Here’s everything you need to know about caring for marble worktops to keep them looking their best for years to come.

Remove tough stains

If your marble worktops get stained, don’t try to scrub them out. Instead, remove the stained areas using a nylon-blend scrubbing pad with an S-shaped blade. Use it gently, as you don’t want to scratch the surface of the marble slab. After you’ve removed the stain, wash the marble worktop with a mild detergent and clean water solution. Dry it with a soft cloth before putting it back to use.

Keep it clean

Particularly if you use a marble worktop for preparing food, it is important to keep it clean. New marble is porous, and it can absorb germs and other contaminants around it. Prevent this from happening by cleaning your marble worktop with a mild detergent and water solution once every few weeks.

Seal it

To prevent stains, scratches, and other damage to your marble worktops, it is best to seal them. A sealant provides a layer of protection that keeps contaminants out but also ensures that moisture can’t penetrate the surface of the marble worktop. There are several types of sealants available, but the best one is one that is transparent and has low or no odour. If you can find one that doesn’t have an odour, the lower the risk of your kitchen becoming too smelly.

Check for damage

While regular maintenance can prevent a lot of damage to your marble worktops, it is important to check for damage from time to time. Particularly if you use your marble worktop for preparing food, it is important to regularly check for damage.

How much do marble worktops cost?

Naturally, the cost of your project will depend on the size of your kitchen and the measurements of the worktops. Although, when it comes to marble and its reputation as a luxurious material, marble worktops aren’t as cheap as porcelain worktops, quartz worktops or granite worktops.

If you are struggling to decide whether marble worktops are the right choice for you, or just need some more information from a team of experts, contact the Granite House team at 01772 44088 or email us at [email protected]

What are the different types of marble?

There are several different types of marble that you can choose from.

One of our most popular types of marble is Pietra. Pietra is a beautifully translucent stone that is known for its stunning colours and intricate patterns. With its natural translucence, Pietra marble is typically a clear or white stone, but it can also come in a variety of other beautiful colours. With its natural translucence, Pietra marble is typically a clear or white stone, but it can also come in a variety of other beautiful colours.

Our Pietra range includes:

Noble Pietra Grey

Unique Pietra

Pietra Grey Marble

Another one of our popular types of marble is Travertine. Travertine marble is often referred to as ‘tufa marble’. It is a type of limestone that is formed over time by the movement of water. As it weathers, it becomes covered in a shell of similar minerals, giving it its characteristic pattern and colour. Travertine marble is often referred to as ‘tufa marble’. It is a type of limestone that is formed over time by the movement of water. As it weathers, it becomes covered in a shell of similar minerals, giving it its characteristic pattern and colour.

Porcelain Worktops FAQs

Why should i choose porcelain worktops?

There are several reasons why you might want to choose porcelain worktops for your kitchen:

Easy to Clean: Porcelain is a very easy material to clean up, thanks to its stain resistance and natural non-porous nature. Most spills can be wiped away with a cloth and soapy water, and stains can be easily removed without the use of harsh chemicals.

Heat Resistant: Porcelain is one of the most heat-resistant materials used in kitchen worktops. It is developed to be resistant to thermal shock, so it won’t melt, char, or emit toxic chemicals when it comes into contact with high temperatures.

Low Maintenance: Porcelain doesn’t require any sealing or waxing to keep it protected, unlike some other worktop materials such as wood or natural stone. It has a high natural resistance to the elements, so it will maintain its appearance from the day it is installed to the day it is removed.

Durable: Porcelain worktops are stronger than you might think. On the Mohs hardness scale, which measures a surface’s hardness, porcelain ranks at around 7-8, while granite ranks at around 6-6.5. This makes it a great choice for kitchens that see a lot of traffic or use, as it can withstand general wear and tear.

Hygienic: Porcelain is a non-porous material, which means that water and other spills won’t be absorbed into the surface. This prevents the growth of germs and bacteria, making it a hygienic choice for family kitchens. Plus, it’s easy to disinfect with a simple cleaning solution, so you can be sure your worktop is always clean and safe.

Light and UV Resistant: Porcelain is available in a wide range of colours, styles, thicknesses, and finishes, and can be shaped to fit any kitchen. It is also resistant to UV light, so it won’t fade or discolour over time.

What colours and finishes are available?

Every colour and finish we supply provides the practical benefits of a porcelain worktop combined with a beautifully stylish design. Provides you with a low-maintenance, non-porous surface that is incredibly resistant to stains and scratches but maintains an elegant and luxurious appearance.

We supply a wide range of styles and colours to match any aesthetic or design of any kitchen to add the finishing touch to your space. The Marazzi marble-look collection is one of our most popular from our range of porcelain worktops, providing a selection of beautiful blacks, whites, greens and greys with a pattern and design similar to a more expensive marble worktop. As porcelain is a manufactured countertop, instead of a natural stone, any design, colour or pattern combination you can think of is possible, depending on what suppliers think is an attractive and trendy option.

For more on the porcelain Marazzi marble-look collection:

Marble Look Statuario

Marble Look Capraia

Marble Look Calacatta Vena Vecchia

Marble Look Calacatta Extra

How much do porcelain worktops cost?

The cost of your porcelain worktop can vary based upon a range of different factors, such as the style, the size of slab you need, the complexity of your kitchen or kitchen island, the thickness etc.

On average, the price of a porcelain worktop is lower than marble worktops and most granite countertops. High-quality quartz worktops are usually a similar price to porcelain, but porcelain is much better. Porcelain worktops are a fantastic middle ground between your average quartz worktop and the more expensive, natural granite and marble options.

However, as porcelain can be difficult to work with, you may find that installation costs for porcelain worktops are slightly higher than for other materials. Despite this, we cannot recommend porcelain countertops enough, due to their incredibly high durability and the huge range of styles and colours available.

Can porcelain be cut to fit my kitchen?

One of the great things about porcelain worktops is that they can be custom-cut to fit your kitchen perfectly. As we mentioned earlier, porcelain is harder than granite and some other popular worktop materials, so it requires specialized tools and experience to cut effectively. But don’t worry – at Granite House, we have the expertise and equipment necessary to cut porcelain slabs into any shape you need.

This means that you can have porcelain worktops that fit your kitchen perfectly, with space for sinks, hobs, and other utilities exactly where you need them. We can work with you to design and install the perfect porcelain worktops for your home, ensuring a professional and seamless process from start to finish. So if you’re interested in the durability and beauty of porcelain worktops, be sure to give us a call to discuss your options.

Do porcelain countertops scratch easily?

Porcelain countertops are generally more resistant to scratches compared to other materials like natural stone. Porcelain is a durable and hard surface that can withstand normal wear and tear in a kitchen environment.

However, it’s worth noting that while porcelain is resistant to scratches, it is not completely scratch-proof. Heavy or sharp objects can still potentially leave marks or scratches on the surface if not handled with care.

It is recommended to use cutting boards and avoid dragging or sliding heavy objects across the porcelain countertop to minimize the risk of scratching. Additionally, using non-abrasive cleaning materials and avoiding harsh scrubbing can help maintain the pristine appearance of porcelain countertops over time.

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