Are you considering an upgrade on your kitchen benchtop but confused about choosing between granite vs. engineered stone?
Both materials are stylish, durable, and highly sought-after, but they each have distinct advantages. The following guide provides essential information for choosing the ideal benchtop material between engineered and granite based on a combination of style, durability, and function.
Understanding the Basics
Engineered Stone Benchtops: A Modern Choice
Engineered countertops made from minerals and recycled glass are known as engineered stone benchtops. These engineered surfaces have properties that differentiate them from natural stone. Their non-porous structure makes them immune to stains and bacterial growth and prevents water absorption.
Key Features:
- Low Maintenance: Requires no special sealing, which makes regular cleaning effortless.
- Highly Durable: Scratch and abrasion-resistant.
- Design Variety: Available in many colours and assorted designs.
- Non-porous: Resists stains, moisture, and bacteria.
Granite Kitchen Countertops: A Timeless Classic
Each granite kitchen countertop slab has an individual appearance because it originates from natural stone. Granite’s durability remains exceptional, but periodic sealing protects its surfaces from stain penetration and moisture damage.
Key Features:
- Natural Beauty: Unique patterns for a one-of-a-kind design.
- Heat Resistant: Handles the heat damage from pots and pans without issues.
- Scratch Resistant: Resists damage that occurs from regular use.
- Eco-Friendly: 100% natural stone.
Engineered Stone vs. Granite: Key Differences
Durability
While engineered stone benchtops and granite kitchen countertops maintain durable characteristics, they require separate maintenance systems.
- Engineered stone surfaces maintain a stain-free condition as their non-porous quality requires no protective sealant.
- Granite is naturally porous and contains natural pores that need occasional sealing to stop stains from forming.
Engineered stone benchtops are the go-to option for homeowners who prefer hassle-free care, and granite is most suitable for those who want natural aesthetics.
Cost: Is Engineered Stone or Granite More Expensive?
A common question on every homeowner’s mind is: Is engineered stone benchtops expensive?
- Engineered stones offer a competitive price from affordable range to luxury range without compromising the quality.
- Granite prices depend on both the availability of its source and the originality of its formation, yet it offers affordable solutions.
Aesthetic Appeal
- Engineered stone benchtops offer uniform colours, making them ideal for modern kitchens.
- Granite kitchen countertops provide natural, unique veining, giving each benchtop an exclusive look.
The choice ultimately depends on whether you prefer the controlled consistency of engineered stone or the natural variation of granite.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose Engineered Stone Benchtops If:
- You prefer a low-maintenance surface.
- You want consistent patterns and colours.
- You’re happy to invest in a long-lasting, engineered surface.
Choose Granite Kitchen Countertops If:
- You love natural stone with unique textures.
- You need a heat-resistant benchtop.
- You don’t mind periodic sealing and maintenance.
Final Verdict: Which One Stands the Test of Time?
Engineered stone and granite are equally strong in terms of durability and design style. However, your personal needs and design choices will determine which countertop material best suits you.
Need expert advice? Contact Stonaa today for professional guidance and installation of premium engineered stone and granite benchtops.
