When it comes to refreshing a kitchen, few decisions are as impactful—and potentially overwhelming—as choosing the right worktop. Two options often come up in conversation: quartz overlay and solid surface worktops. Both have their merits, but which one is truly right for your space in 2025?
At Vision Worksurfaces, based on the South Coast, we help homeowners, kitchen designers, and contractors every day make informed choices that suit their lifestyle, design goals, and budget. Let’s break down the differences so you can make the best choice for your next renovation.
Learn MoreQuartz overlays are engineered stone surfaces that are installed directly over your existing worktops. This means you can get a brand-new look—often in just a day—without the mess or cost of full removal. With quartz overlay, you get a luxurious, contemporary aesthetic with natural-looking patterns, polished finishes, and slimline profiles.
Ideal for: Quick upgrades, modern kitchens, and preserving existing cabinetry.
Solid surface materials like Corian® or Hi-MACS® are man-made composites known for their seamless joins and incredible design flexibility. These worktops can be thermoformed into curves and integrated with matching sinks or splashbacks. They offer a more fluid, bespoke look, especially great for contemporary or minimalist kitchens.
Ideal for: Bespoke designs, integrated features, curved countertops.
Quartz is renowned for its durability and resistance to stains, heat, and scratches. Because overlays are made from the same material as full quartz slabs, they offer excellent longevity. With minimal upkeep—just warm soapy water—it’s a favourite among busy households.
Maintenance Level: Low
Lifespan: 20+ years
Solid surface is non-porous, making it resistant to bacteria and staining. While it’s a little more susceptible to scratching or heat damage than quartz, the upside is that it’s repairable—light scratches can often be buffed out.
Maintenance Level: Low to moderate
Lifespan: 15–20 years (with care)
Here’s a quick recap to help guide your decision:
| Feature | Quartz Overlay | Solid Surface |
|---|---|---|
| Look | Luxurious stone-like finish | Seamless, modern, sculpted |
| Installation Time | 1–2 days | Several weeks (templated) |
| Durability | Highly durable, low-maintenance | Repairable, hygienic, more delicate |
| Customisation | Limited to surface swap | Fully bespoke shapes, integrated sinks |
| Cost | Budget to mid-range | Mid to premium |
| Eco Impact | Reuses existing worktops | Recyclable and repairable |
Ultimately, it comes down to how you use your kitchen, your design goals, and your budget. A busy family home with a tight timeline might thrive with a quartz overlay. A sleek new kitchen build with curved islands and integrated features? Solid surface might be the star.
Book a Quote TodayAt Vision Worksurfaces, we’ve helped hundreds of South Coast homeowners, designers, and contractors find the perfect match. Whether you’re leaning toward quartz overlay or solid surface—or still unsure—we’d love to hear about your project.
Give us a call or Visit Vision Worksurfaces to book a consultation or get a no-obligation quote.
Let’s make your 2025 kitchen truly work for you.
