Porcelain vs Quartzite Countertops

Porcelain and quartzite worktops have become very popular in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. They are both premium-looking materials, yet they differ in terms of their make, look, and function.

In this guide, we will compare porcelain countertops with natural quartzite countertops to assist you in selecting the right one for your project.

Porcelain and Quartzite Worktop Comparison

When deciding between the two, it is crucial to consider the factors that are most important to you. With this in mind, here are some questions to ask yourself to ensure that you get the right material for your project:

• Do you have a certain budget in mind for the supply and installation of the worktops?
• What is most important to you – low maintenance, natural beauty, heat resistance, or stain resistance?
• Do you have any specific design in mind for your space?

To assist with that, let’s compare porcelain and quartzite worktops in relation to these key areas:

Origin and Composition

Porcelain is manufactured by baking compacted and powdered raw materials, including kaolin, feldspar, quartz and pigment at temperatures above 1200°C. This sintering process produces a very controlled, dense, man-made slab.

On the other hand, quartzite is a naturally occurring metamorphic rock. It is formed from sandstone deep in the earth and, through years of heat and pressure, changed into a hard, crystalline stone. It is then extracted and cut into beautiful slabs.

Appearance

If you want consistency in your design, porcelain is the way to go. It is consistent in colour and pattern across the slabs and ideal for large areas or achieving a certain look. 

Porcelain’s colour and designs are endless, and it includes realistic simulations of wood and natural stones like marble. Finishes are usually matte, polished, or sometimes textured.

Quartzite colours are unique and they have the most natural and exclusive patterns. Each slab is different, with natural variations in veining, colour, and mineral inclusions—you will never find two quartzite worktops alike. This makes it perfect for a statement piece when you want to showcase natural artistry. The standard finishes include polished, which brings out the colour and the natural highlights, or honed for a matte finish.

Durability

Both porcelain and quartzite perform well in terms of hardness. On the Mohs scale, quartzite is usually around 7.0, which is very hard. Porcelain also rates around 7.0. This means that both of these materials are very resistant to scratches for normal kitchen use.

Although quite durable, no surface is completely impervious to damage; both can potentially chip if hit with force, especially on the edges. This may mean that thinner porcelain profiles need to be more careful about impacts than thicker quartzite slabs.

Regardless of the choice made, it is always advisable to use chopping boards. This will help prevent damage to the worktop and keep your knives sharp, as these hard surfaces tend to dull them.

Porosity

Porcelain is non-porous, so it has a very low absorption rate and is resistant to stains from everyday spills, such as wine, coffee, oil, or acidic substances, such as lemon juice.

Quartzite is a natural stone, and its porosity differs from one type to another. To prevent liquids from seeping in and staining, it should be sealed properly during installation and then re-sealed from time to time. Unsealed or poorly sealed quartzite is prone to staining.

Heat Resistance 

Porcelain is very heat-resistant because it is made at very high temperatures. Hot items can be placed directly on the surface without charring or burning. Quartzite is also quite heat-resistant and much better than engineered quartz.

While both materials are resistant to high temperatures, it is always a good idea to use trivets or heat pads with both. This practice prevents any possible risk of thermal shock on porcelain and maintains sealants on quartzite.

Cost

The prices for porcelain and quartzite worktops are quite different and are influenced by a number of factors. When it comes to porcelain, the price will depend on:

• The brand
• The intricacy of the design and finish chosen
• The thickness of the slab
• The specificities of the fabrication and installation

Prices in the UK are usually from £340 per square meter.

Price levels for quartzite depend on several factors, such as: 

• The stone slab rarity and origin 
• Its colour and veining pattern

Additionally, its hardness makes fabrication more labour-intensive, thus a greater overall cost. High-end quartzite worktops typically start from £500+ per square meter, with rarer and more sought-after varieties potentially costing significantly more. While price points can sometimes overlap, quartzite generally sits at a higher price range overall.

UV Resistance & Colour Stability

Outdoor spaces and areas that receive intense sunlight benefit best from porcelain installation. The mineral-based pigmentation in this material maintains its colours effectively against ultraviolet light exposure without experiencing discolouration.

Quartzite is generally UV stable for typical indoor kitchen environments. However, while many quartzites hold up well in intense, direct sunlight applications like outdoor kitchens, porcelain offers greater assurance against any potential long-term fading or colour change.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Porcelain offers simple maintenance as worktops can be cleaned by using a damp cloth with mild detergent. The surface does not require special treatments because of its non-porous structure.

Mild detergent and water can be used to clean quartzite surfaces without any issues. Even then, acidic substances like vinegar or lemon juice cleaners, together with abrasive scouring pads, should be avoided. These cleaning methods have the potential to damage the sealant and stone surface. Use only pH-neutral cleaners for this purpose.

Quartzite worktops need routine maintenance that involves checking the sealant condition and performing reapplications when necessary.

Which Worktop Is Right for You: Porcelain or Quartzite?

When selecting between the two options, your personal priorities will determine your decision.

If you value low maintenance, exceptional stain resistance, and a consistent appearance, porcelain is the ideal choice. Its excellent UV resistance also makes it the top choice for outdoor kitchens or very sunny indoor areas.

Select Quartzite when you want to experience natural stone aesthetics with distinctive patterns, superior hardness and scratch resistance. It’s perfect for those who appreciate natural artistry and are prepared for the routine sealing required to maintain its beauty.

Still wondering where to start? Our team provides professional assistance in selecting customized worktops that match your home requirements. Contact us now by emailing info@paramountstone.co.uk or calling 01482 585600 for professional guidance and top countertop solutions across the United Kingdom.