Choosing between granite, porcelain and quartz kitchen worktops can feel confusing. Each material is made differently, and those differences affect heat resistance, maintenance, durability and long-term performance. In this guide, Shaw Stone explains how each worktop is made — and what that means for your kitchen.  

How kitchen worktops are made — and why it matters.
Granite, porcelain and quartz may look similar, but the way each surface is produced directly affects durability, heat resistance and maintenance. View our visual guide above, then read on for a simple breakdown of what each material means for your kitchen.

Granite – The Natural Original

Granite is a 100% natural stone, formed from molten rock deep beneath the Earth’s surface over millions of years. Each slab is quarried and cut from natural stone, meaning no two worktops are ever the same.

What this means for your kitchen:
Granite offers excellent heat resistance and natural character. As a natural material, it is porous to varying degrees and requires sealing to protect against staining.

View our full range of granite worktops and natural stone finishes available at Shaw Stone.

Porcelain – The Fired Performer

Porcelain worktops are made from refined natural minerals that are fired at extremely high temperatures in a process known as sintering. This creates a dense, uniform surface.

What this means for your kitchen:
Porcelain is highly durable, heatproof, stain-resistant, and requires no sealing. It is also UV stable, making it suitable for outdoor use when correctly specified.

Explore our premium porcelain worktops, suitable for kitchens, bathrooms and outdoor spaces.

Quartz – The Engineered Innovator

Quartz worktops are manufactured using crushed natural quartz combined with resins and pigments. This allows for consistent colours and patterns with a smooth, non-porous finish.

What this means for your kitchen:
Quartz is low maintenance, stain-resistant, and does not require sealing. However, it is not pan-proof, so hot cookware should always be placed on a trivet (heat-resistant stand).

Discover our wide selection of quartz worktops, offering durability and consistency.

Which Worktop Is Right for You?

Each material has its own strengths, and the right choice depends on how you use your kitchen, the look you want to achieve, and how much maintenance you’re comfortable with.

At Shaw Stone, we help you choose the surface that best suits your home and lifestyle. Visit our showroom or speak to our team for expert advice.

Material properties vary by specification. Speak to Shaw Stone for guidance.