What exactly are Quartz Countertops?
The name of “Quartz” originates from its main ingredient, raw quartz crystalline mineral, which is the hardest non-precious stone on earth. Although it is made from natural stone, it is not a natural product. More accurately, Quartz is an engineered stone that is twice as strong as granite, non-porous, and makes for a long lasting countertop surface.
How is Quartz Made?
Most Quartz countertops are composed of 90-93% raw quartz combined with resin and pigment. The quartz minerals are mined then transported to the manufacturing plant. Here, the minerals are broken down to various sizes: from fine sands to small pebbles.
The mixture of minerals, binding agents and pigment are poured into a slab mold, and then vibrated & pressed down to build the quartz slab.
The Benefits of Quartz Countertops:
To summarize the benefits of quartz countertops for your reading pleasure, here are our favorite take-aways in a easy-on-the-eye bullet list. Which one appeals to you the most?
- Quartz is tough, extremely hard and durable
- Free of fissures, cracks and surface inconsistencies
- Offers a wide variety of colors and marble-like designs
- Available in whites and solid colors
- Nonporous and does not need to be sealed
- Naturally resistant to bacteria
- Easy to care for and very stain resistant
- Has several application types
- Has great resale value
Quartz Countertops in a Kitchen
Every household is different, and whether Quartz Countertops is right for yours depends on how you use your kitchen. Keep both practicality and your style in mind, or whichever is the most important to you. Here are some things to consider:
1. How often do you cook? How many cooks in the kitchen? What types of foods and tools do you cook with?
Quartz countertops is great for kitchens that see a lot of foot traffic and cooking action. It can stand up to oil splatters from the deep fryer and the forgotten wine rings from last night’s dinner with friends. It’s non-porous surface makes it impenetrable by liquid, hence the wine and oil will wipe up clean with warm water and mild soap. Being non-porous also means no sealing. Ever.
2. Are you looking for a subtle design, some pattern… or are you looking for a statement piece that is unique and striking?
Several manufacturers, such as Hanstone or Silestone, offer their own brand of Quartz countertops, and so comes the hundreds and hundreds of colors and pattern options to choose from! From subtle, to striking, and everything in between. But, unlike natural granite or marble slabs cut straight from the earth, this engineered-stone does not ring the same “one-of-a-kind” bell.
3. If my kitchen needs a seam (or more), can I live with it?
Like most countertop products, Quartz countertops is not a seamless product. Slab sizes vary depending on the color and brand. Large kitchen islands are a hot item and some homeowners are not too pleased to hear that theirs will need a seam. Whether a seam is needed is the final decision of the countertop fabricator, determined after final measurements are taken. If you absolutely are not okay with the idea of a seam, it’s time to consider a backup plan just in case your island size is too large.
Still Undecided?
Let our team of experts help! We’ve been in the countertop business for quite some time, and would be happy to assist you with selecting the perfect countertop for your project. Our In-Home Design Consultations are exciting, information and always complimentary! Fill out the form below to get started on your new countertop journey.
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