The Most Durable Countertops

Most homeowners would agree a new kitchen countertop is an investment.

Like with any outlay, they want it to last.

When it comes to worktops, particularly in one of the busiest and most frequently used rooms in the home, durability is as important as aesthetics.

Here is our guide to some of the most hard-wearing solutions that both look great and are long-lasting:

Quartz

Quartz will always be the winner when it comes to durability. A combination of natural and engineered materials uses crushed quartz, mixed with resin, to create countertops in a range of colours and designs.It is stain, heat and bacteria-resistant, making it ideal for use in a kitchen. It won’t chip or crack either if knives are used directly on its surface.In fact, quartz is so tough you may need to regularly sharpen them.

Granite

With a Moh’s hardness rating of 7, granite has always been one of the most popular choices when it comes to countertops.It is an extremely durable material that is both heat and scratch-resistant - ideal characteristics for a kitchen.With a range of colours and patterns available, a granite worktop can be created entirely to meet your specification, ensuring it fits in perfectly with your space.Homeowners like its distinct natural beauty and versatility.

Recycled glass

Recycled glass is an alternative that homeowners often don’t consider when it comes to a countertop despite it being one of the more durable options.They offer a more contemporary, terrazzo style that looks great and will last for years.The material used often consists of coloured beer and liquorbottles depending on your specifications.On average anywhere between 70% and 85% of recycled glass is used, with the remainder made up of engineered stone. Much like quartz and granite, recycled glass countertops are heat, scratch and stain-resistant – a winning combination for any kitchen.

Kitchen islands

With an industrial chic aesthetic coming to the fore over the recent years, concrete has quickly become the material of choice for a range of surfaces. As with the alternatives explored above, its toughness makes it a tempting option for a kitchen countertop.It can be manufactured in a range of colours and textures to look like wood or metal as well as simple concrete. However, despite concrete being a great choice for its hard-wearing nature, it is a porous material which means it must be sealed both during installation and at regular intervals afterwards.At Granite & Quartz Installations we offer nationwide fittings for a range of durable countertops to suit any kitchen space.

To find out more about our range, and receive a quote for your upcoming project, get in touch with us at info@graniteandquartzinstallations.co.uk.

FAQ

Some questions & some answers

Where do you supply and install granite and quartz worktops?

Granite & Quartz Installations supplies and fits kitchen worktops across Greater Manchester, Cheshire and surrounding areas, with nationwide fitting also available. Our service areas include Manchester, Stockport, Wilmslow, Altrincham, Warrington, Chester, Bolton and Wigan. Send us your postcode with your enquiry so we can confirm availability for your address.

How much do quartz worktops cost?

Quartz worktop prices depend on your chosen stone, worktop dimensions, thickness and fabrication requirements. Sink and hob cut-outs, edge profiles, upstands, splashbacks and access to the property can also affect the total. Send us your kitchen plan or approximate measurements for a quote tailored to your project.

What information do you need for a worktop quote?

Please provide your postcode, contact details and a kitchen plan or the approximate length and width of each worktop section in millimetres. Include your preferred stone and details of any sink, hob, tap holes, drainer grooves, upstands or splashbacks. Let us know about stairs or restricted access too.

What is the difference between granite and quartz worktops?

Granite is natural stone, so its colour and pattern vary from slab to slab. Quartz is an engineered surface available in a wide choice of colours and designs, including marble-effect finishes. Both can suit kitchen worktops; the right choice depends on the appearance, maintenance requirements and budget you prefer.

What thicknesses are available for your worktops?

Our worktops are available in 20mm and 30mm thicknesses, depending on the selected stone. A 30mm worktop creates a more substantial appearance, while 20mm offers a slimmer finish. We can discuss the available thicknesses for your chosen design when preparing your quote.

What size are quartz slabs, and will my worktop need a joint?

Slab dimensions vary by stone and supplier. Whether your worktop needs a joint depends on the available slab size, kitchen layout, cut-outs and access to the property. We will discuss the proposed layout and any necessary joints before fabrication.

Are your worktops made to measure?

Yes. We template your kitchen to establish the measurements before fabricating the worktops to suit your layout. The finished pieces are planned around your cabinets, sink, hob and other agreed features.

When should I arrange worktop templating?

Arrange templating once your kitchen base units are installed, securely fixed and level. This allows us to measure the finished layout accurately. Contact us earlier for an initial quote and advice on coordinating the worktops with your kitchen installation.

How long does it take from templating to installation?

We aim to manufacture and fit your worktops approximately seven days after templating. The timescale depends on your chosen stone, availability and project requirements. We will confirm the expected installation date when arranging your order.

How long does worktop installation take?

Installation usually takes around three to eight hours, depending on the size and complexity of your kitchen. Larger layouts, additional features or difficult access may require more time. We will discuss the expected fitting arrangements before installation day.

Can I see samples before choosing my worktops?

Yes. You can view a selection of granite and quartz samples at our Cheadle showroom or request free samples through our website. Viewing samples in your own kitchen can help you compare colours with your cabinets, flooring and lighting.

When should I arrange worktop templating?

Can you install worktops in an upstairs kitchen or flat?

Yes, upstairs installations can be possible, subject to suitable access. Tell us about stairs, lifts, narrow doorways and other restrictions when requesting your quote. Additional labour charges may apply, and access can affect the size of the worktop sections we can bring into the property.

Can you replace my worktops without replacing the kitchen?

We offer worktop replacement as well as worktops for new kitchens. The existing cabinets and layout will need to be suitable for the new stone surfaces. Send us photographs and measurements so we can discuss your project and any preparation required.

Where is your granite and quartz showroom?

Our showroom is at Apex, Unit G037, Stanley Green Trading Estate, Duke Avenue, Cheadle, SK8 6RX. Contact us on 0161 302 8959 before travelling to check visiting arrangements and availability of the samples you would like to see.

Do you fit undermount sinks and connect the plumbing?

For undermount sinks, we secure the sink in position as part of the worktop installation. Suitable sink supports must be installed by you or your tradesperson beforehand. Securing the sink is separate from connecting the water supply and waste; please confirm the plumbing arrangements with us before installation.

Can you make matching upstands and splashbacks?

Upstands and splashbacks can be included in your worktop design, subject to the chosen material and project requirements. Include the dimensions in your enquiry and tell us whether you would like a short upstand, a splashback or full-height wall panels.

Can I put hot pans directly on quartz worktops?

Use a trivet or heat-resistant mat rather than placing hot pans directly on quartz. Although quartz is durable, excessive heat or sudden temperature changes can damage the surface. Follow the care instructions supplied for your particular stone.