Granite Worktops
Everything About Granite Worktops
The complete UK guide to natural-stone performance, maintenance and value
Introduction to Granite Worktops
Granite worktops give you the look and feel of real stone with serious everyday durability. Each slab is natural, so no two kitchens are identical. Colours range from soft greys and speckled whites through to dramatic blacks and gold veining.
Granite is hard, typically around Mohs 6–7, and when sealed properly it offers good stain resistance and straightforward daily care. It is naturally heat resistant, but rapid temperature changes can cause thermal shock, which may crack the surface. Always use trivets for very hot pans from the hob or oven.
Advantages vs Considerations
✓ Advantages
- Heat resistant: copes well with high temperatures, with trivets used to avoid thermal shock and protect the polish.
- Very durable: hard, scratch resistant surface suited to busy family kitchens.
- Unique appearance: natural veining and crystal patterns add depth and character.
- Good stain resistance: when sealed, everyday spills wipe away easily.
- Long lifespan: with proper care, granite often outlasts the cabinets underneath.
- Perceived value: natural stone is seen as a premium upgrade in UK homes.
⚠ Considerations
- Needs sealing: most granites need resealing every 12–36 months.
- Thermal shock risk: extreme heat to cold in one spot can cause cracks.
- Impact chips: edges and around sink or hob cut-outs are more vulnerable.
- Heavy material: base units and spans need correct structural support.
- Visible joints: long runs often require seams, which fabricators colour-match.
- Professional install: templating, fabrication and fitting require specialists.
Maintenance & Everyday Care
Simple rules to keep granite looking its best
Daily cleaning
Use warm water, a small amount of pH-neutral detergent and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive pads and harsh chemicals that can dull the surface.
Sealing schedule
Most UK fabricators recommend resealing every 1–3 years. If water stops beading on the surface, it is time to reseal.
Dealing with spills
Blot spills rather than wiping them across the surface. Clean wine, coffee, oil and acidic liquids promptly to avoid marks.
Protect from heat shock
Although granite is heat resistant, use trivets or pan stands for trays and cast-iron pans from the oven. Sudden heat to a small area can cause thermal stress cracks.
Use chopping boards
Cut on boards rather than directly on the stone. This protects both the worktop and your knives.
Look after edges
Take extra care with heavy pots around edges and cut-outs. These areas are where chips are most likely to occur.
Typical Thickness Options
Granite vs Quartz: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Granite | Quartz |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Natural stone cut from blocks and polished. | Engineered stone with quartz, resins and pigments. |
| Appearance | Unique slabs; natural variation in pattern and tone. | Consistent designs; can mimic marble, concrete or stone. |
| Heat behaviour | Heat resistant but thermal shock can crack the surface. Trivets are still recommended. | Resins are heat sensitive. Always use trivets and avoid direct contact with very hot pans. |
| Scratch resistance | Very good. Everyday utensils will not usually mark it. | Very good. Similar to granite in most kitchens. |
| Stain resistance | Good when correctly sealed and maintained. | Excellent. Non-porous, no sealing needed. |
| Maintenance | Needs periodic sealing and pH-neutral cleaning. | Low maintenance. Avoid strong solvents and high heat. |
| Price (UK typical, per m²) | Around £250–£600+ depending on rarity. | Around £350–£700+ depending on brand and design. |
| Outdoor use | Good UV resistance. Suitable for many outdoor kitchens. | Generally not recommended outdoors due to UV on resins. |
| Best suited to | Homeowners who want a natural, one-off stone with strong heat resistance. | Those who prefer uniform colour, simple care and predictable samples. |
Investment Guide for UK Kitchens
Final prices depend on the stone choice, thickness, edge profile, cut-outs, templating and installation. These ranges are typical for many UK granite suppliers.
Entry level
£250–£350 per m²
Popular colours, simple edges, 20 mm or 30 mm thickness.
Mid-range
£350–£500 per m²
Broader colour choice, thicker sections and shaped details.
Luxury
£500–£600+ per m²
Exotic stones, book-matched slabs and complex features.
Typical extras
Templating: £100–£200
Installation: £150–£300
Sink/hob cut-outs: £50–£100 each
Is Granite the Right Choice?
Choose granite if you want
- Natural stone with unique character in every slab.
- Strong heat resistance with sensible use of trivets.
- A worktop that adds perceived value to the property.
- A finish that works in both classic and modern kitchens.
Consider alternatives such as quartz or porcelain if you prefer
- Very low maintenance with no need for sealing.
- Perfectly consistent colour and pattern from sample to slab.
- Maximum stain resistance for heavy red wine and curry use.
- Specific marble or concrete effects that granite cannot match.