Differences between Quartz and Marble Worktops

By: Alan Dec 21, 2023 0 Comments

Selecting a kitchen worktop is a big deal. Currently, marble and quartz worktops are neck to neck in popularity. Some homeowners prefer quartz for its affordable yet elegant aesthetic, while others choose marble because it’s a natural material that exudes luxury and longevity. It is challenging to choose between these two materials.

But which worktop material is better? Quartz and marble worktops have unique benefits, depending on your kitchen needs. So, before you make the ultimate kitchen decision, explore all the differences between marble and quartz worktops.

Differences between Quartz and Marble Worktops

1. Are Both Materials Natural?

Marble worktops occur naturally, but quartz worktops come from manufacturing facilities. Marble is a natural rock that forms in the earth’s crust after years of limestone metamorphism under intense heat and pressure. The process results in various structural pieces with different textures, meaning no two marble slabs are alike. It features distinct veining patterns that create stunning worktop designs, setting it apart from other natural materials, like granite worktops.

On the other hand, quartz is artificial. The quartz mineral occurs naturally, but artisans add resin and pigments to craft the final products. Unlike marble, which is mined and structurally cut to create worktops, manufacturers grind and mix quartz to make the final surface material. Finding more than one quartz worktop with the same veining patterns is expected.

2. Which One is More Expensive?

Marble and quartz worktops are more expensive than other surface materials because of their versatility, elegant designs, colour variety, and durability. However, marble is generally more expensive than quartz.

The prices are not far apart. But here’s where the expenses differ: marble worktops require annual maintenance to sustain durability. So, apart from the initial purchase and installation, you must budget for sealing and polishing to prevent staining and other damages. Quartz includes synthetic materials that maintain durability, meaning you don’t need annual sealing.

It’s also important to note that many quartz vendors offer long-term warranties that provide the flexibility to replace broken pieces and more.

3. Durability

Durability is a significant characteristic when selecting kitchen worktops. You need a surface that can withstand high heat and stains and maintain its appearance for a long time.

Quartz worktops are better for durability because they are crafted from one of the hardest minerals, and the synthetic materials enhance resilience.

These worktops will work perfectly in busy kitchen spaces because they can withstand high traffic.

Marble worktops are durable when you prioritise consistent maintenance. Marble is a soft and delicate stone, but it naturally withstands pressure thanks to years of metamorphism. These worktops are better for low-traffic kitchen spaces.

Some homeowners combine two materials, using granite worktops for hot areas and installing marble worktops in the cool areas. This structural method contributes to durability while maintaining your marble worktop’s elegant appearance.

4. Maintenance

Whether you’re using quartz or marble worktops, maintenance is a must to preserve the appearance and timelessness.

Quartz is engineered and requires no sealing, so the maintenance is minimal. The material is non-porous and stain-resistant, so the cleaning process is straightforward. You’ll only need water and mild soap to clean the surface, but you can also experiment with various cleaning products without worrying about etching.

Marble, on the other hand, requires annual sealing and hands-on maintenance to preserve its delicacy. It is a resilient material, but its porous nature and staining susceptibility mean you must properly take care of your worktops.

Luckily, marble is easy to clean because you only need a non-abrasive soap, soft cloth, and warm water. Avoid harsh cleaning agents and acidic products because they lead to etching, which damages your elegant worktop.

The Pros and Cons of Marble Worktops

Pros

Marble is a natural stone. These worktops are favourable for eco-friendly homeowners.
It is easy to clean.
Marble offers an elegant, luxurious aesthetic to your kitchen space.
It features unique veining patterns, meaning no two marble worktops are alike.
It is timeless and durable with the proper maintenance.
Worktops come in a variety of colours and designs.
It is easy to cut and shape.
Marble is unique, and each slab has a unique personality.

Cons

It is prone to etching when exposed to acidic juices.
Rare marble can be expensive, but all marble requires sealing every two years to help sustain the appearance and performance.
Marble is a porous material that may stain with colouring agents.

The Pros and Cons of Quartz Worktops

Pros

Quartz worktopscontain robust natural quartz and resin that solidify durability.
Quartz is non-porous and stain-resistant.
Most brands of quartz are cheaper, but all quartz brands offer lower maintenance than marble and don’t require sealing.
Many quartz worktop vendors offer long-term warranties.
It comes in many colours, designs, and textures.
Quartz is an attractive and consistent material for worktops and can be personalised to create a uniform final design.
It is easy to clean and don’t succumb to etching. Most household products are suitable for cleaning it.

Cons

It isn’t easy to install compared to lighter materials such as laminate.
It doesn’t offer the uniqueness of natural marble.
It is more expensive than most worktop materials on the market.
Most quartz surfaces aren’t for outdoor kitchen spaces because UV rays from the sun will cause colour damage.

Marble vs. Quartz Worktops: Which One is Better?

Both quartz and marble worktops are superb and will create a beautiful kitchen space in your home regardless of style. Of course, they have differences, and marble can be expensive if you look at rare varieties or long-term maintenance requirements.

The final kitchen decision narrows down to your financial capability, design requirements, and kitchen traffic.

If you’re installing worktops in a crowded or high-traffic space, quartz worktops will be more reliable. On the other hand, marble is a tasteful and stylish material, but it’s also more delicate, so it fits nicely in lower-traffic places.

In conclusion, marble and quartz worktops will transform your kitchen into a visually appealing and comfortable space. You need to identify the pros and cons within your comfort zone before making the ultimate kitchen decision.

Meet Alan Nussbaum, our Sales and Marketing Manager. With almost two decades of experience, Alan’s impressive track record includes creating one of the first online stone companies in 2012 and pioneering the acceptance of cryptocurrencies in construction in 2018 before co-founding The Worktop Library with Maria.
Alan’s work is featured in numerous Stone and Home Decor magazines. In addition, he collaborates with the industry’s leading stone brands, cementing his reputation as an innovator.
Before starting a thriving career in the stone industry, Alan honed his skills by overseeing luxury fashion brands such as Burberry, Matches Fashion, and Patrick Cox. With his unique blend of experience and expertise, Alan is a true trailblazer in the stone worktop industry. His passion for delivering exceptional service is evident in every aspect of his work.