Even if you’ve been living under a rock for the past few years—pun intended—you probably know something about quartz countertops. How much do you really know about quartz, though? Explore the distinct allure of cultured granite vs cultured marble in our latest comparison article.
Check out these eight interesting facts about a countertop surface that has been becoming extremely popular in the United States.
Where Quartz Originated
Many people are unaware that quartz was originally derived from an Italian company known as Breton in the 1960s.
Not long after this Italian company trademarked the stone as Bretonstone, Breton licensed the technology to several companies around the world.
How Quartz is Made
Made in a factory, quartz countertops are composed of roughly 90 percent ground quartz and 8 to 10 percent of pigments, resins and polymers. The engineering process results in a highly durable and gorgeous kitchen countertop.
Several Color Options
Many customers love that quartz offers an extensive array of color options. Color pigments can be added to the resin, so quartz can come in a natural look with fewer color resins or a bold and festive color. Quartz is also available in many different attractive patterns through the addition of glass and metal flecks.
As far as the finishes are concerned, you can choose a polished, embossed, sandblasted or honed look. The possibilities are truly endless if you choose quartz countertops.
Easy Maintenance
The great thing about quartz countertops is that they are extremely easy to maintain. The best way to maintain quartz countertops is to wipe them down with warm water and mild soap on a regular basis. Make sure to avoid using harsh cleaners and abrasive brushes, as these items may damage the countertops.
Extremely Durable & Resistant To Damage
Quartz is almost indestructible, which makes it a great choice for a countertop. Quartz is pretty hard to scratch, stain or chip, so you don’t have to worry much about wear and tear with this type of countertop.
Attractive Water-Proof Qualities
Here’s a lesser-known fact: quartz countertops are water-proof. These types of countertops do not require a seal since there are no cracks or pores in the material. The product’s water-proof quality is due to the fact that quartz countertops are manmade and are not natural stone.
A Great Eco-Friendly Choice
Quartz is often considered an eco-friendly choice, as many manufacturers make quartz countertops out of scraps.
These manufacturers crush the leftover materials from other stonecutters for use in engineered stone. By making good use of the waste material that would otherwise be thrown away, they are reducing the amount of stone mined for slabs. In the long run, there will be less cut down trees and excavation.
If you want to contribute to conservation, choose quartz countertops.
Quartz is Highly Desirable
Based on a 2013 consumer report, quartz was listed as the top kitchen countertop surface. Over the past several years, this non-porous product has only continued to increase in popularity. Many customers love that the product features several color options, flexible use and an attractive price point.
So, to choose the best countertop for your home, you need to pay close attention to the best material and quartz countertop brands.