Everything You need to Know About Quartz Countertops. A Complete Guide.
Updated: Sep 23, 2022
What Is A Quartz Countertop?
Quartz countertops are made of a material that is a mix of natural quartz and other materials such as polymer resins. Quartz countertops are very strong and durable, making them a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms. They are also heat-resistant and non-porous, which makes them easy to clean.
Pros and Cons of Quartz Countertops?
Quartz countertops are extremely durable, which is one of their main advantages.
Unlike granite, marble, and other surfaces that require regular maintenance, quartz countertops never need to be sealed.
Quartz countertops are also nonabsorbent, which means they will not stain and will not harbour harmful bacteria.
Quartz is also popular among homeowners and designers due to its versatile and beautiful designs, colours, and patterns.
Quartz countertops are scratch resistant, but due to their hardness, they may dull a knife that is used directly on the surface.
Like all natural stone countertops, quartz can be damaged by sudden changes in temperature. Pot holders and trivets should be used to protect a quartz countertop from anything hot.
Though quartz countertops are not approved for outdoor use, quartz may be used in outdoor kitchens with full overhead coverage from the elements.
Despite the fact that quartz countertops are not approved for outdoor use, they can be used in outdoor kitchens with full overhead coverage from the elements.
Maintenance and care
Moisture, dirt, and contaminants simply will not pass through the non-porous surface of the quartz, keeping it free of deeply embedded stains. As a result, they are considered maintenance-free. To keep them looking their best, simply wipe them down with soap and water.
They are difficult to scratch or chip because they are hard but not too brittle material. High heat, on the other hand, can damage the resins that provide their tough exterior. It is necessary to keep them away from hot pans.
Design Options
The design options for quartz countertops appear to be endless. Some are intended to resemble granite or marble, while others are intended to resemble nothing else. Light and simple patterns are common, but quartz tops truly shine in deep colours and intricate designs.
When you combine their excellent (though not always perfect) seam-hiding properties with their ability to be fully customized, you have a countertop material that can be ideal for any kitchen.
QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS VS GRANITE
Granite is a natural stone that is cut into slabs for use in kitchens and bathrooms. Quartz countertops are a type of granite countertop that is made from natural quartz. Granite is popular with cabinet makers and homeowners because it is durable and attractive countertop material.
Material Composition
Quartz countertops, also known as engineered stone countertops, are manufactured items. They are made up of 93% to 95% ground-up natural quartz stone, as well as a few other minerals and colorants. The rest is a strong resin that holds everything together.
Granite countertops are made entirely of natural rock that is extracted from the ground, cut to size, and installed.
Why Quartz Has Become Such A Popular Countertop Stone
In the not-too-distant past, granite countertops were desired by all luxury homeowners. However, many of these homeowners have been looking for quartz as an alternative countertop material in recent years. Unlike natural stones like granite, quartz is an engineered stone, which means it is not used in its natural state.
Quartz is made up of 90 to 95 percent ground quartz, 5 to 10% polyester resin, polymers as a binder, and colour pigments. It is one of the world's most abundant and hardest minerals.
One of the advantages of using Quartz over natural stones is the abundance of colour options and consistency in the slabs. Because pigments are added during the manufacturing process, an infinite number of colours are available, which natural stones lack.
Quartz Countertops Cost
The average quartz countertop price for a medium-sized kitchen ranges between $3,000 and $7,500. That's a wide range, but it depends on factors like slab size, seam count, quartz quality, and kitchen size. The table below shows the low, average, and high prices of quartz countertops. Your job will most likely fall somewhere in the middle of this range.
Quartz Countertop Cost per Square Foot
Do you want to know the price of a quartz countertop per square foot? The purchase and installation of a quartz countertop will cost between $45 and $200 per square foot, with an average cost of around $70. In the lowest quality options, expect some veining and discoloration, but a lower average price of $45 to $65 per square foot. Mid-quality quartz countertops range in price from $65 to $75 per square foot, while high-quality options with no visible veins range in price from $75 to $200 per square foot.
QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS VS SOAPSTONE
Quartz countertops outlast soapstone countertops by far. Soapstone countertops easily etch and scratch and must be oiled on a regular basis to maintain their luster. Quartz countertops are scratch resistant and do not require any maintenance. Soapstone countertops have a soft, powdery feel and can change or darken over time. Quartz countertops of high quality will retain their appearance over time with no maintenance.
Bottom Line
If your budget allows for high-end countertops, quartz may be the material to meet your needs. It's no surprise that they're one of the most sought-after kitchen design features, with few drawbacks, low maintenance, long-lasting beauty, and a plethora of design options.
Frequently Ask Questions
What Is a Quartz Countertop?
The Quartz Countertop is made of natural quartz, one of the world's hardest minerals, for exceptional durability and performance. You get the look and feel of granite and marble, but with more strength and the added benefit of being nonabsorbent and low-maintenance. Simply wash it in warm water with mild soap if desired. Quartz counters are stain-resistant and do not need to be sealed or reconditioned. Granite is a porous stone that must be chemically sealed on a regular basis. It absorbs liquids and food, which increases the likelihood of staining and bacterial growth on the countertop.
Is quartz countertop made or manufactured in a plant?
At the quartz countertop processing facility, pure quartz is combined with a small amount of pigment and binders to create slabs. Using the recombining process, we can produce slabs that are nonabsorbent, strong, and compact.
What range of quartz countertop products are available?
Quartz countertops are ideal for kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, shower, and tub surrounds, furniture tabletops and accent pieces, fireplace surrounds, desktops, wet bar areas, and window sills. Quartz countertops are available in 1cm, 2cm, and 3cm thicknesses. Different edge profiles can also make the slab appear thicker.
Does quartz countertop require care and maintenance?
No, quartz countertops never need to be sealed, polished, or reconditioned. Simply use warm water and, if desired, a mild soap to clean. Because it is nonabsorbent, it does not require regular sealing and is stain-resistant.
Will my walls and other adjacent surfaces be protected during installation?
We go to great lengths to protect your walls and other adjacent surfaces. When a heavy quartz countertop is installed, some scuffing to the walls or adjacent fixtures may occur. Some "touch-ups" may be required, for which the homeowner is responsible.
How can I ensure that my countertop area is measured or tempered accurately?
All cabinets must be installed and positioned in the same plane. Sinks, faucet fixtures, and cooktops should also be available on-site during the initial measurements.