At Rock Revelations, we know that ordering kitchen worktops can feel overwehelming —so we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
For help with quotes, templating, or installation, check out our FAQs below. Still have questions? Just get in touch—our expert team is always happy to help.
Our Answers
Select Stone Category
Quartz
What is quartz?
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth. It naturally forms as colorless or white hexagonal prisms and is incredibly hard—second only to diamond. Thanks to its durability and versatility, quartz is an excellent material for creating stylish yet resilient kitchen surfaces.
Where does quartz come from?
Quartz is found in almost all types of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. It is a key mineral in silica-rich felsic rocks such as granite, granodiorite, and rhyolite.
How is quartz made into work surfaces?
Quartz surfaces are engineered using approximately 93% natural quartz, combined with resins, polymers, and pigments. The air is removed from the mixture, which is then shaped into slabs and cured at high temperatures. This process creates a strong, durable surface available in a wide range of colors and finishes.
How does quartz compare to granite and marble?
Choosing the right work surface is an important decision. Unlike natural stone, quartz surfaces are man-made, allowing for greater consistency in color and pattern across slabs. This ensures a uniform look throughout your kitchen, which is not always possible with granite or marble.
What are the benefits of quartz?
Quartz surfaces are highly durable, resistant to stains, scratches, and heat. Their non-porous nature makes them exceptionally hygienic by preventing bacteria and mold buildup. Since food can be placed directly on the surface, it’s a safe and practical choice for any home.
Can quartz be used in bathrooms?
Yes! Quartz is non-porous, making it an ideal material for bathroom vanities. It resists water and soap splashes without damage, ensuring a long-lasting, stylish finish.
How long does quartz last in a kitchen or bathroom?
With proper care, quartz worktops can last the entire lifetime of your kitchen or bathroom. For maintenance tips, refer to our care and maintenance guide.
Is quartz a good option for families?
Absolutely! Quartz is a tough and versatile surface, perfect for busy households. Whether your kitchen is used just for cooking or doubles as a space for entertaining, children’s homework, or family gatherings, quartz can handle it all.
Sintered Stone
What is Sintered Stone?
Sintered stone is a synthetic surfacing material made from 100% natural minerals. Unlike engineered stones like quartz, which use resins as binders, sintered stone is created through a process called sintering. This involves fusing minerals together under extreme heat and pressure, resulting in a dense, durable, and non-porous material.
Sintered stone is versatile and can be used for countertops, flooring, wall cladding, and outdoor applications. It mimics the look of natural stone but offers enhanced durability and performance.
How Is Sintered Stone Made?
The manufacturing process of sintered stone involves several steps:
- Material Selection: High-quality minerals and stone particles are carefully chosen for their texture, color, and quality.
- Grinding: The selected materials are ground into a fine powder.
- Compaction: The powder is compacted under immense pressure (up to 27,000 tonnes) using a hydraulic press.
- Sintering: The compacted material is baked at temperatures between 1,200ºC and 1,400ºC, fusing the particles together permanently.
This process mimics the natural formation of stone but occurs in a fraction of the time, resulting in a material that is both strong and sustainable.
What are the benefits of sintered stone?
Sintered stone offers a wide range of advantages, making it a top choice for designers and homeowners:
Durability and Strength
- Resistant to scratches, chips, and impacts.
- Can withstand extreme temperatures, making it heat-resistant.
- UV-resistant, ensuring it won’t fade or degrade in sunlight.
Low Maintenance
- Non-porous surface prevents staining and bacterial growth.
- Easy to clean with just soap and water.
- Does not require sealing or special maintenance.
Aesthetic Versatility
- Available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes.
- Can mimic the look of natural stone like marble or granite.
- Through-body design ensures consistent patterns even when cut.
Eco-Friendly
- Made from 100% natural materials, often including recycled minerals.
- Fully recyclable and sustainable.
- No resins or synthetic binders are used in production.
Multi-Purpose Use
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
- Ideal for countertops, flooring, wall cladding, fireplaces, and more.
- Resistant to weather, chemicals, and wear, making it perfect for high-traffic areas.
How does it compare to quartz?
While both sintered stone and quartz are popular choices for countertops, there are some notable differences:
Similarities
- Both are durable, non-porous, and easy to maintain.
- Available in a wide range of colors and designs.
- Resistant to scratches and stains.
Differences
- Composition: Sintered stone is made entirely of natural minerals, while quartz contains around 90% quartz and 10% resins.
- Heat Resistance: Sintered stone is heat-resistant, whereas quartz can scorch or discolor under high temperatures.
- Outdoor Use: Sintered stone is UV-resistant and suitable for outdoor applications, while quartz is not recommended for outdoor use.
- Environmental Impact: Sintered stone is more eco-friendly due to its lack of resins and use of recycled materials.
Can sintered stone be used outdoors?
Absolutely! Sintered stone is UV-resistant and weatherproof, making it ideal for outdoor kitchens, patios, and pool areas.
How thick is sintered stone?
Standard thicknesses include 12mm, 20mm, and 30mm for countertops, while thinner options (3mmm, 4mm, 6mm, or 8mm) are available for flooring and cladding - depending on the brand you select.
Is sintered stone eco-friendly?
Yes, sintered stone is made from natural and often recycled materials. It is fully recyclable and contains no harmful resins or chemicals.
Granite
What is Granite?
Granite is a natural igneous rock formed deep within the Earth’s crust from the slow cooling and solidification of magma. Composed primarily of quartz, feldspar, and mica, granite is renowned for its strength, heat resistance, and unique aesthetic. Each slab of granite is one-of-a-kind, with variations in colour and pattern due to its mineral composition.
Granite is often referred to as a “full-bodied” material, meaning its patterns run throughout the slab and are visible at the edges. This distinguishes it from materials like porcelain or ceramic, which have surface-only designs.
Why Choose Granite Worktops?
Granite worktops are a popular choice for several reasons:
- Durability: Granite is one of the hardest natural stones, resistant to scratches, heat, and stains. With proper care, it can last a lifetime.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Its natural beauty and unique patterns add a touch of elegance to any space.
- Eco-Friendly: Granite is a sustainable material, requiring no additional resources to create. It’s also free from harmful chemicals and toxins.
- Value Addition: Granite worktops can enhance the value of your home, with kitchen renovations potentially increasing property value by up to 5.5%.
Granite vs. Other Materials
Compac stands out for its superior quality, durability.
Granite vs. Marble
- Durability: Granite is harder and more resistant to scratches and stains than marble.
- Maintenance: Marble is more porous and prone to staining, especially from acidic substances like wine or lemon juice. Granite, when sealed, is more resilient.
- Appearance: Marble features soft veining, while granite has a speckled or freckled appearance.
- Applications: Granite is ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens, while marble is better suited for low-traffic spaces like bathrooms.
Granite vs. Quartz
- Composition: Granite is a natural stone, while quartz is engineered from natural quartz minerals and resins.
- Maintenance: Quartz is non-porous and requires no sealing, whereas granite needs periodic sealing.
- Heat Resistance: Granite is more heat-resistant, making it better suited for placing hot pans directly on the surface.
- Aesthetics: Granite offers unique natural patterns, while quartz provides a more uniform appearance.
Design Ideas for Granite Worktops
Granite’s versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of kitchen styles:
- Modern: Pair cool grey granite with white cabinets and stainless steel appliances for a sleek, contemporary look.
- Classic: Combine black granite with white shaker cabinets and wooden floors for a timeless design.
- Warm and Inviting: Use warm white granite with off-white cabinets for a cosy, relaxed feel.
- Country Style: Opt for neutral tones, shaker cabinets, and white granite with gold accents for a modern farmhouse aesthetic.
Maintenance & Care
Granite is one of the easiest worktop materials to maintain:
- Cleaning: Use warm soapy water or a granite-specific cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals like vinegar or bleach, which can damage the sealant.
- Sealing: Granite should be sealed every 1-3 years to maintain its stain resistance.
- Stain Removal: For stubborn stains, create a poultice using baking soda and water (for oil-based stains) or hydrogen peroxide (for water-based stains).
Please visit our maintenance page for more information.
Installation and Cost
Granite worktops require professional installation due to their weight and the precision needed for cutting and fitting. The cost varies depending on the type of granite, the complexity of the installation, and the size of your project.
Is granite heat-resistant?
Yes, granite can withstand high temperatures, making it safe to place hot pans directly on the surface. However, using trivets is recommended to protect the sealant.
Can granite worktops crack?
While granite is highly durable, extreme impacts or improper installation can cause cracks. Proper support and care are essential.
How long do granite worktops last?
With proper care, granite worktops can last for decades, often outliving the kitchen units they are installed on.
Are granite worktops eco-friendly?
Granite is a natural material, and its environmental impact depends on quarrying practices. Choosing a supplier that follows sustainable methods can minimise its footprint.
Can granite be used outdoors?
Yes, granite is suitable for outdoor use due to its resistance to weathering and UV.
Marble
What Can Marble Worktops Be Used For?
Marble worktops are versatile and can serve multiple purposes. They provide a durable and elegant surface for food preparation, an easy-to-clean area for serving drinks, a stylish edge for seating areas, or a decorative focal point in kitchens and bathrooms.
With an average lifespan of around 10 years, marble worktops are highly durable, and with proper care, they can maintain their beauty for many years. Their natural resistance to scratches makes them one of the most resilient options available.
While marble looks stunning in kitchens, it is prone to staining if not sealed properly. However, in bathrooms, it performs exceptionally well due to its durability and luxurious appearance.
Why Choose Marble Worktops?
Selecting the right worktop involves considering the features that matter most to you. Once you’ve identified your needs, choosing the right type of marble is key.
For kitchens, wenge or buff-coloured marble complements various styles, from traditional to contemporary. These shades blend well with most designs, adding a touch of sophistication.
In bathrooms, lighter, more neutral-toned marble works best, creating a seamless and elegant aesthetic. However, if you prefer bolder colours, marble is still a great option, as it is available in a wide range of shades to suit any interior.
How to Maintain a Marble Worktop
Marble, like all natural stones, requires proper care to retain its beauty. Fortunately, maintaining it is relatively simple. Here’s how to keep your marble worktops in top condition:
1. Remove Tough Stains
If stains appear, avoid harsh scrubbing. Instead, use a nylon-blend scrubbing pad with an S-shaped blade, applying gentle pressure to prevent scratches. After treating the stain, clean the surface with mild detergent and water, then dry it with a soft cloth.
2. Keep It Clean
Marble is naturally porous and can absorb bacteria, particularly in kitchen settings. Clean it regularly with a mild detergent and water solution to prevent contamination and maintain hygiene.
3. Seal the Surface
Sealing marble worktops helps protect against stains, scratches, and moisture. Choose a transparent, low- or no-odour sealant for the best results. This barrier keeps contaminants out while preserving the stone’s natural beauty.
4. Check for Damage
Regularly inspect your worktops for any signs of damage, especially in high-use areas like kitchens. Promptly addressing any issues ensures the longevity of your marble surfaces.
By following these simple maintenance steps, your marble worktops will stay in excellent condition for years to come.
Select Brands
Why is silica content important in worktops?
Crystalline silica, found in traditional quartz and stone materials, can pose serious health risks during manufacturing—such as silicosis and other lung diseases—when inhaled as dust. Low silica worktops greatly reduce or eliminate this risk, making them safer for fabricators and installers while still performing well in everyday use.
You can rest assure, that at Rock Revelations, our fabrication centre is below the exposure limit set by HSE.
How do low silica mineral worktops compare to traditional quartz?
Traditional quartz worktops can contain up to 90–95% crystalline silica, while low silica versions contain less than 5%. Despite this reduction, low silica options maintain excellent hardness, stain resistance, and visual appeal. They’re just as durable and often easier to maintain, with the added benefit of being more sustainable and worker-safe.
Are low silica mineral worktops eco-friendly?
Yes. These worktops use sustainable materials such as recycled glass, bio-based resins, and renewable energy in production. Their manufacturing processes consume less energy, reduce silica dust emissions, and lower carbon footprints compared to standard engineered stone.
Are low silica worktops as durable as other materials like granite or marble?
Absolutely. Low silica mineral worktops are highly resistant to heat, scratches, and stains. They are non-porous, which means they do not absorb liquids or harbor bacteria, making them an excellent hygienic and long-lasting choice for kitchens and bathrooms.
What do low silica mineral worktops look like?
They are available in a wide range of colours, textures, and finishes—from natural stone-inspired patterns to sleek modern designs. Advances in engineered stone technology allow low silica surfaces to achieve the same luxurious appearance as traditional quartz or marble.
How should I care for a low silica worktop?
Maintenance is simple. Clean daily with mild soap, warm water, and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners and harsh chemicals. Although heat-resistant, it’s best to use trivets for hot pans and chopping boards for cutting to preserve the surface’s finish.
Are low silica mineral worktops more expensive?
They can be slightly more expensive than traditional quartz due to the advanced technology and sustainable materials used in their production. However, their durability, safety benefits, and eco-friendly nature often make them a worthwhile long-term investment.
Are low silica worktops completely silica-free?
Some are entirely silica-free, while others have a very low silica content (typically under 5–10%). The exact percentage varies by manufacturer, but all low silica options are designed to minimize exposure to crystalline silica during fabrication.
Why should I choose a low silica mineral worktop for my kitchen?
Choosing a low silica mineral worktop means choosing a surface that’s stylish, durable, easy to maintain, and safer for both people and the planet. It aligns with sustainable design trends and supports healthier manufacturing practices—without compromising on performance or aesthetics.
- Marazzi
What are the applications of Marazzi?
Marazzi surfaces are ideal for installing in Bathrooms, Kitchens, Wall Cladding and more.
- Marazzi
What finishes are Marazzi surfaces available in?
Polished, Natural and Satin
- Marazzi
What is Marazzi?
Marazzi is a Porcelain surface that allows architects and designers freedom for innovation with unparalleled styles and designs. The brand itself is well established since 1935 and has adapted to modern trends and requirements within the stone industry.
- Marazzi
What thicknesses are Marazzi surfaces available in?
Marazzi worktops are available in 6mm, 12mm and 20mm.
- Marazzi
Where is Marazzi sourced from
Marazzi material is sourced from Italy.
- Marble
How to maintain a marble worktop?
Marble, like all natural stones, requires proper care to retain its beauty. Fortunately, maintaining it is relatively simple. Here’s how to keep your marble worktops in top condition:
1. Remove Tough Stains
If stains appear, avoid harsh scrubbing. Instead, use a nylon-blend scrubbing pad with an S-shaped blade, applying gentle pressure to prevent scratches. After treating the stain, clean the surface with mild detergent and water, then dry it with a soft cloth.
2. Keep It Clean
Marble is naturally porous and can absorb bacteria, particularly in kitchen settings. Clean it regularly with a mild detergent and water solution to prevent contamination and maintain hygiene.
3. Seal the Surface
Sealing marble worktops helps protect against stains, scratches, and moisture. Choose a transparent, low- or no-odour sealant for the best results. This barrier keeps contaminants out while preserving the stone’s natural beauty.
4. Check for Damage
Regularly inspect your worktops for any signs of damage, especially in high-use areas like kitchens. Promptly addressing any issues ensures the longevity of your marble surfaces.
By following these simple maintenance steps, your marble worktops will stay in excellent condition for years to come.
Samples
Will my sample look exactly like the finished worktop?
Most of our samples are sized at 10cm x 10cm, though some may differ slightly depending on the manufacturer or available offcuts.
These samples provide a good representation of the design, texture, and finish of your chosen worktop.
Please note that samples of marble, granite, quartz, and sintered porcelain stone may vary in patterns and shades. This is primarily due to differences in material batches, time periods of when the sample and the slab were produced.
Additionally, when it comes to natural stone, like granite and marble, slabs can vary within a quarry, meaning each batch may have its own unique appearance.
Pricing
How much will it cost?
The price of your worktops will depend on a variety of factors
- Brand Material – Each brand material has its own cost, and each colour within that brand is positioned in price groups.
- Amount of Worktops – The second factor is the amount of material required. We calculate how many slabs are required to complete the work. Depending on your requirements, we may need to use additional slabs to complete the work, or ensure joints meet in safe places. We will always try to maximise usage of the slab for the best price possible.
- Cut Outs & Extras - The number of cut outs, the type of cut outs, splashbacks, upstands, overhangs, curved corners, edging -all affect costs.
- Templating and Installation– If you require templating and installation then this will affect the cost. Additionally, depending on your location, travel time will also affect the cost.
When do I pay?
Once you are pleased with your quote and ready to proceed, we will require a 50% deposit of the total cost before we begin the templating process.
The final 50% will need to be paid no later than 24 hours before installation.
How can I pay?
Payments can be made by bank transfer, or by card over the phone.
Templating
Is there anything I need to do before templating?
Yes. We have prepared a template checklist for you to go through.
How can I book my template?
You can book your template on our website by visiting the template booking page. You will be asked to confirm your details, project details and the desired template date.
Although you can request the date templating is available from, this does not guarantee your template. Our scheduling department will be in touch to confirm your templating date.
How long does templating take?
Templating depends on the complexity and size of your project. This could range between 1-3 hours.
Can I make changes after templating?
Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate new changes after templating.
Any modifications will require a new quote and re-template. The original order will be canceled.
This will result in additional costs, and any outstanding payments must be settled before the new quote and template can be prepared.
New quotes, templates, and fittings will follow the same timeline as other orders and cannot be expedited.
Do I need to be present during templating?
Yes. We require the customer/client to be present during installation.
Fitting
What happens on the day of fitting?
We will call you the day before to provide an estimated window for our arrival. If necessary, we can give you a more precise time on the day to ensure you’re available.
Typically, two fitters will be required for the job. As long as the area is clear and prepared, we will proceed with installing your worktops.
Please ensure there is sufficient space for parking and unloading for our fitters, and let us know if there are any potential access issues. If parking permits are needed, kindly arrange them ahead of the fitting.
How long does fitting take?
Fitting normally takes around 2-4 hours.
Should I be present during installation?
Yes. We require the customer/client to be present during installation. Upon completion, sign-off will be required.
Will you connect my sink/basin?
We will fix the sink to the worktop, however we will not connect or install new pipework to the sink. You will need to arrange a plumber.
Additionally, for larger sinks and ceramic or butler sinks, you may need to build a sub-base to support it, which your kitchen fitter or a carpenter will do.
For this reason, you may have to have other trades visit after our installation so they can connect.
Our Company
What areas do we cover?
We cover all areas of the country.
Do you have a showroom?
Yes. We have a showroom located at our Fabrication Centre.
Can I choose my slab?
If we have stock of the slab at our factory then you are more than welcome to view the available slabs and select the ones you like. If we have to order in your slabs, we can arrange for you to visit the slabs at the manufacturer's depot.
Can I get matching sinks?
Depending on the material, it may be possible to have the sink in the same material as your worktop. For example Silestone Integrity sinks are prefabricated in a select range of colours. If you would like sinks made from other materials, these would have to be created especially or you.
Do you sell chopping boards?
If you would like to have a chopping board in an offcut material or the same material as your kitchen worktops, please let the team know who will be able to arrange a quotation.