Quartz all the way! – Facts about quartz countertops

Quartz is becoming increasingly popular with many homeowners in many regions of the US and Europe when it comes to kitchen remodeling. So if you’re thinking of renovating your kitchen with quartz countertops as a centerpiece, this article might just help. Below is a brief overview of everything you need to know or learn about quartz countertops.

Manufacturing process:

Quartz slabs are made in factories unlike natural stone slabs which are quarried. These slabs contained around 90% pure quartz which is combined with polyester resins and pigments under intense heat and pressure. Resins make them non-porous while pigments are used for coloring. Depending on the designs and patterns of the quartz countertops, other materials such as recycled glass or metallic flecks can also be used.

Advantages:

• Quartz comes in various patterns and designs that can resemble the natural appearance of natural stones or granites, including the engineered appearance of laminate.
• Quartz slabs are not porous. Because of this, you don’t need to seal them from time to time while you’re remodeling your kitchen. This also makes them highly resistant to the growth of bacteria, fungi, and mold.
• Being one of the hardest minerals available on Earth, countertops made from quartz are extremely rigid and durable. On top of that, they are resistant to heat, chips, teeth, and other types of surface damage.
• One needs to give some time to clean their quartz countertops. Stains can be easily removed by gentle wiping or rubbing with soap, water, and form. However, it’s best to avoid scouring pads and harsh chemicals, as these can dull the surface.
• They are manufactured in thick slabs that can be installed in one piece.

Cons:

• Although quartz slabs can be made to look like granite or other natural stones, they may lack the distinctive appeal that a person might be looking for.
• Similarly, seams between individual slabs are sometimes visible, especially in lighter shades.
• Quart are relatively cheaper than granite, but are much more expensive than laminate.
• Despite their non-porous property, they are not suitable for exteriors.
• Quartz countertops are also very heavy (heavier than granite), which means you need to hire a professional kitchen remodeling company to do the job.
• Quartz countertops can resist heat and burn at a certain point. The sudden change in temperature can cause the surface to crack. Therefore, it is important to use a “trivet” or “hot pad” under hot utensils.

Popular brands:

“Breten” was the first manufacturer of quartz countertops. For this reason, it holds the patent for the manufacture of these countertops. Other popular brands include Technistone, Avanza, Cambria, Cosentino, and Dupont.

Price range: $60 – $100 per square foot.