Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about our materials, process, and services — all in one place.
Clear steps. Perfect results
Most commonly asked questions
Whats the difference between Granite & Quartz?
Granite is a natural product whereas Quartz is manmade.
Is Granite more expensive than quartz?
No, they start off similar depending on the material.
Are these surfaces hard to clean?
No, just wipe up any spills with warm soapy water and a microfibre cloth.
Can I take a sample home?
Yes! We have a vast range of samples you can take home for FREE.
What is the turnaround?
From deposit being paid, we will install 7 days later.
Whats the difference between Granite & Quartz?
Granite is a natural product whereas Quartz is manmade.
Is Granite more expensive than quartz?
No, they start off similar depending on the material.
Are these surfaces hard to clean?
No, just wipe up any spills with warm soapy water and a microfibre cloth.
Can I take a sample home?
Yes! We have a vast range of samples you can take home for FREE.
What is the turnaround?
From deposit being paid, we will install 7 days later.
Granite is a completely natural stone, quarried from the earth and cut into slabs, meaning every piece is unique, no two will ever be identical. Quartz, on the other hand, is an engineered material made from crushed natural quartz blended with resins and pigments. This gives it a consistent colour and pattern throughout, making it easier to match across larger projects. Granite offers one of a kind beauty with natural variations, while quartz provides uniformity and often a wider choice of modern designs.
It depends on your style, lifestyle, and priorities. If you love the look of natural stone and want something truly unique, granite is hard to beat, every slab is different, giving your kitchen a bespoke feel. If you prefer a more uniform design, with plenty of colour and pattern options, quartz is a great choice. Quartz is non-porous, so it doesn’t need sealing, while granite will need occasional sealing to keep it protected.
Granite is naturally heat resistant, so it can handle hot pans and trays better than many other surfaces, though it’s still best to use a trivet to avoid any risk of thermal shock or surface marks. Quartz is more heat sensitive because it contains resins that can be damaged by high temperatures, so you should always use a heat mat or trivet with hot cookware. In both cases, a little extra care will help keep your worktops looking their best for years.
Both granite and quartz are very hard materials, making them highly resistant to everyday scratches from knives, pots, and pans. Granite is naturally tough, while quartz’s engineered surface adds extra durability. That said, no worktop is completely scratch proof! Using chopping boards will help protect the surface and keep it looking new.
Yes, granite is a natural stone, so it needs sealing to help protect it from stains and moisture. Most high-quality sealants last 12 months or more, so sealing once a year is usually enough. It’s a quick process and keeps your worktop looking great and performing well for years.
With proper care, both granite and quartz worktops can last decades, often 25 years or more, and in many cases a lifetime! Granite’s natural durability and quartz’s engineered strength mean they can handle daily use without losing their looks, making them a fantastic long term investment for your kitchen or bathroom.
Yes. At Meridian, we stock all our quartz products on site, so you’re welcome to view the slabs in full. Our showroom also displays a range of products in situ, helping you picture them in your own space. For granite, we always recommend viewing the actual slab before ordering, as each one has its own unique pattern and character. You can also book an appointment with any of our suppliers to view/ reserve your slab.
At Meridian Granite, we offer four different edge profiles. The options available may vary depending on the thickness and material you choose. You can see all the styles and find the one that suits your project best by visiting our Edges page.
Yes, using our digital templating system and CNC machinery, we can create precise, bespoke shapes and cut outs to suit your exact space and design requirements.
Installation usually takes between 2 to 6 hours, depending on the size and complexity of your project. For larger or more intricate jobs, a second day may be needed to complete the work to the highest standard.
Before templating, we need your sink, taps, and hob on site so we can accurately measure cutouts. If these aren’t available, having the exact make and model details will work too.
Before installation, please ensure all doorways are clear and any electrical sockets are removed if you’re having full height splash backs. The sink should be on site, and the workspace should be as clear as possible to give our fitters plenty of room to work efficiently.
We recommend waiting at least 24 hours for the silicone on the joints, especially around the sink, to fully set. Our team will have secured the sink with a supportive structure, which can be safely removed after this time. This ensures everything stays firmly in place and prevents any damage.
Depending on availability, this can be arranged. Please speak to our team direct for more details.
We carefully plan and position joins to make them as discreet as possible, usually placing them in less visible areas. Our skilled fitters use high-quality adhesives and techniques to ensure the seams are strong and nearly invisible, giving your worktop a smooth, continuous look.
If no cutting is needed on site, the installation will be very clean with minimal dust or mess. However, we do recommend covering carpeted areas with protective sheets just to be safe.
Yes, we can cut tap holes for you as long as your taps are on site during installation. If your taps are available at the templating stage, we can have the holes pre-cut at the factory for a perfect fit.
After receiving your quote, we recommend confirming your kitchen completion date with your builder. Once you’re ready, we’ll schedule a template visit to measure your space accurately. After templating, you’ll get a final updated quote. If you’re happy to proceed, a 90% deposit is required to start the fabrication process. Your installation will typically take place around 7 days after the deposit is paid.
Not necessarily. Granite and quartz often start at similar price points, though costs can vary depending on the specific material and design you choose.
Yes, we don’t do the plumbing side but we will secure your sink into position.
Cleaning your granite or quartz worktops is easy, just use warm soapy water and a soft cloth for everyday spills and dirt. For tougher stains, a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner works well. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers to keep your surfaces looking fresh and polished.
While both granite and quartz are heat resistant to some extent, it’s best to avoid placing hot pans directly on the surface. Using a trivet or heat pad will protect your worktops from potential heat damage and help keep them looking like new for years to come.
Yes, to keep your granite or quartz worktops in top condition, avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaning products such as bleach, ammonia, or acidic cleaners like vinegar and lemon juice. These can dull the surface or damage the sealant. Instead, stick to mild soapy water or cleaners specifically designed for natural stone or quartz surfaces.
If your granite or quartz worktop chips or cracks, don’t worry, small damages can often be repaired by our team using specialised resins and fillers that match the colour and texture of your surface. However, larger cracks may require replacing the affected section. It’s best to contact us as soon as possible to assess the damage and recommend the best solution.
Please call or email our team with your kitchen plan, highlighting the areas where you’d like the material. A rough sketch with measurements in millimetres or centimetres is also fine. Don’t forget to let us know if you need upstands, splashbacks, or any additional features such as mitered legs or pop-up sockets. Once we have this information, we can provide you with an initial estimate.
Costs vary depending on the material you choose as well as the complexity of your project. For an accurate price per metre, please get in touch with us or check our website for the latest offers and promotions.
Installation is priced separately from the material cost. When you get a quote from us, we’ll provide a clear, all-inclusive price that covers both supply and professional installation.
Yes, we take 90% after templating is complete when we have the final sizes. Templating is chargeable if you decide not to go ahead.
If you select a material from our M-Quartz range, your warranty is activated automatically with no registration needed. For Silestone surfaces, you have up to six months to register your warranty directly on the Cosentino website. For all other brands, please contact our team direct on 0113 256 9700.
Generally, at Meridian we work 1 to 2 weeks in advance. However, we can book you in for any date in the future.
After templating, we’ll update your quote to reflect the exact sizes of your pieces and any required polishing or cutouts. For materials priced by the sheet, the cost should remain largely the same—unless additional material is needed or extra cutouts have been added.
Granite is an excellent choice for outdoor use due to its natural durability and resistance to weather. Quartz, being man made, is generally not recommended for outdoor applications as prolonged exposure to sunlight and moisture can affect its appearance over time. If you're considering worktops or surfaces for outside, granite is usually the better option!
Yes, quartz is a great choice for bathrooms and wet rooms. Its non-porous surface makes it resistant to moisture, stains, and bacteria, helping keep your space hygienic and easy to maintain. Plus, quartz offers a wide range of colours and finishes, so it’s easy to find a style that fits your bathroom perfectly.
Yes, both granite and quartz are excellent choices for walls, cladding, and furniture. They add a stylish, durable finish to commercial and residential spaces alike. Whether it’s feature walls, reception desks, or custom furniture pieces, these stones bring beauty and long lasting quality to any project.
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