Natural stone is a popular material for kitchen worktops, but what is the difference between Dekton vs Quartz?
You may have heard that quartz is a composite worktop known for being durable and hardwearing. On the other hand, Dekton is considered to be almost indestructible.
If you are wondering which material to choose, it is helpful to consider each of the characteristics that make each worktop material stand out. There are some similarities and differences that will make your choice easier to make.
In this guide, we will examine the features of the two materials and compare Dekton vs quartz worktops.
How are they made? Dekton vs Quartz Workops
Dekton and quartz are both engineered natural worktops that contain natural stones but are fabricated to provide strength and durability.
How are quartz worktops made?
Quartz worktops are a composite of natural quartz and resins. Usually, a quartz worktop will contain at least 90% quartz. Quartz is a naturally hard mineral that, once combined with resin, has the advantage of being non-porous.
Processing involves natural quartz crystals being mined and ground up before being combined with resin binders using intense heat. Colour pigments can be added during the manufacturing process.
How are Dekton worktops made?
Dekton worktops are made exclusively by Cosentino using a unique manufacturing process. Natural quartz, porcelain and glass, alongside some other natural minerals, are sintered together to produce a highly durable work surface.
The patented method is known as TSP (Technology of sinterized particles). It involves putting the raw materials under extreme pressure and heat to create an ultra-compact surface with a depth of around 2cm.
The resulting worktop has no defects and is completely non-porous.
Similarities and Differences between fabrication: Dekton vs Quartz Worktops
Let’s compare how the fabrication causes similarities and differences between the two products.
- You can see that quartz worktops, although at least 90% natural, do contain other products (i.e. resins), whereas Dekton is made from 100% natural minerals.
- The tools used to make these products are similar, including diamond core bits, saw blades and polishing pads to create the final products. However, while quartz has a glossy finish, Dekton has a subtle matt finish.
- Both products can have colour added during manufacture. Hundreds of colours and patterns are available in quartz manufactured by dozens of companies worldwide. Dekton, produced only by Cosentino, is available in 50 shades but includes three different textures.
- Dekton is a more compact product than quartz due to the extreme pressures involved in processing.
Care and Maintenance: Quartz vs Dekton Worktops
Five main features of quartz and Dekton make them stand out from other worktops.
When comparing how quartz and Dekton will perform, you need to look at the following:
- Stain Resistance
- Scratch Resistance
- Heat Resistance
- Chip Resistance
- UV Protection
Let’s explore how both products function regarding each of the five main features.
Stain Resistance: Quartz vs Dekton Worktops
Both quartz and Dekton worktops are stain-resistant, thanks to them being non-porous.
When you spill liquids and food on the surfaces, you can be reassured that they will not be absorbed into the surface and cause permanent stains. To clean up spillages, you simply need a cloth and water, while for more stubborn substances, you can use a gentle scourer.
One difference is that because Dekton contains no resin, it is more resistant to acidic cleaners and substances. Although you are recommended to use PH-neutral cleaning products on both worktops, you do not have to worry so much about Dekton.
Scratch Resistance: Quartz vs Dekton Worktops
Both worktops are considered scratch-resistant, although there is a superior one.
Quartz is undoubtedly hardwearing, but you are recommended to use chopping boards to protect your surface.
Dekton is entirely scratch-proof. You can cut your food directly on the surface without fear of scratches. How is this so?
The intense pressure used in manufacturing creates an incredibly dense worktop. Cosentino measures the pressure at 25,000 tons!
This ultimate density creates a tough and scratch-proof surface.
Heat Resistance: Quartz vs Dekton Worktops
Quartz itself is highly heat resistant as it is a natural mineral formed from igneous rock. However, quartz worktops are a composite that includes resins.
Resins make the quartz vulnerable to thermal shock, leading to cracks in the surface or scorch marks.
You are recommended to use trivets to protect a quartz worktop from hot pans.
Dekton is entirely heat resistant due to the extreme heat used in the fabrication. In fact, Cosentino says that it is fireproof.
You can indeed place hot pans and plates directly onto the surface without worrying about damage.
Chipping: Quartz vs Dekton Worktops
Both types of worktops are robust, but here quartz performs better. While Dekton is resistant to scratches, it is more vulnerable to chips if exposed to something heavy being dropped.
The resin combined with at least 90% quartz in quartz worktops makes them less likely to be damaged.
UV Protection: Quartz vs Dekton Worktops
One of the areas where Dekton performs better is UV protection. You can even use Dekton outside, as there is no risk of it fading under bright sunlight.
Quartz worktops, especially darker ones, can fade if used in a south-facing kitchen with lots of sunshine.
Final Thoughts: Quartz vs Dekton Worktops
So, there you have it. We have explored the main similarities and differences between Quartz and Dekton.
In summary, quartz is stain-resistant, while Dekton is entirely stainproof. Quartz is vulnerable to thermal shock, while Dekton is fireproof.
Quartz can fade when exposed to the sun, whereas Dekton is UV-proof. Quartz rarely chips, while Dekton is known to be vulnerable to chips and cracks.
Still not sure which worktop is right for you?
Of course, both materials provide high-quality worktops that elevate any kitchen design. You may wish to choose based on aesthetics, going for the shiny surface of quartz or the subtle matt finishes of Dekton.
If you require more information about any of our worktops, please contact us at Mr Kitchen Worktop Fitter.
