The Durability Test: Which is More Heat and Scratch Resistant, Granite or Quartz?

By Mark, Head Fitter | Updated: October 2025 | Reading time: 4 minutes

When you invest in a new worktop, you expect it to withstand the rigours of a busy kitchen. But what does "durability" really mean? As a key chapter in our complete Quartz vs. Granite comparison, this guide puts both materials head-to-head on the two most critical measures of toughness: heat and scratch resistance.

I've personally fitted hundreds of both types of worktops in homes across Herefordshire, and I've seen how they perform under real-world conditions. Here's my honest, experience-based assessment.

Heat Resistance: Can it take a hot pan?

This is one of the biggest practical differences between the two materials, and there's a clear winner.

Winner: Granite

Granite is the champion of heat resistance. As a natural rock formed by immense heat and pressure deep within the earth, it is exceptionally resistant to high temperatures. You can take a pan directly from the hob and place it on a granite worktop without causing any damage. While we always recommend using trivets as a best practice to protect your investment long-term, granite offers the best peace of mind for passionate, fast-moving cooks.

Runner-up: Quartz

Quartz is heat-resistant, but it is not heat-proof. The 7-10% of polymer resins in the composition of quartz are susceptible to damage from sudden and extreme temperature changes, a phenomenon known as "thermal shock." Placing a very hot pan (e.g., over 150°C) directly on the surface can cause the resin to burn, leading to permanent discoloration or even cracking. It is essential to always use trivets or hot pads with quartz worktops.

Scratch Resistance: Can you cut on it?

Here, the roles are reversed. The scientific measure of hardness is the Mohs scale, and it gives us a clear answer.

Winner: Quartz

Quartz is the harder and more scratch-resistant material. Natural quartz mineral is rated a 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Granite, being a composite of various minerals, typically falls between 6 and 7. This slight but significant difference means that quartz is more resilient against scratches from everyday items like knives, keys, and the abrasive bottoms of ceramic mugs. It's an incredibly tough surface.

Runner-up: Granite

Granite is still extremely scratch-resistant and will stand up to most daily wear and tear without issue. It is very difficult to scratch. However, it can be scratched by materials that are harder than it, which includes quartz and other pieces of granite. You should never use a granite chopping board on a granite worktop, for example.

For both materials, we strongly advise against cutting directly on the surface. You will blunt your kitchen knives very quickly, and there is always a small risk of causing a fine scratch under heavy pressure.

Expert Verdict: Which is Tougher Overall?

"It's a tie, but for different reasons. Neither material is indestructible, but both are exceptionally durable for kitchen use. The best choice depends on your specific concerns and habits.

If you're a keen chef who values the convenience of moving hot pans around without worry, granite's superior heat resistance is a significant advantage.

If you have a busy family and your main concern is preventing scratches from everyday life, dropped cutlery, and general wear and tear, then quartz's superior hardness offers that extra layer of protection." — Mark, Head Fitter at Tudor Granite