Quartz is one of the toughest materials on earth and it is a popular choice amongst home owners for their kitchen countertops. It is durable, long lasting and a treat to the eyes. It is naturally non porous and scratch resistant. It is also stain resistant and affords easy maintenance.
Quartz countertops require no sealing or polishing and are available in a wide range of colors including white, beige, red, green, earthy brown, black or cream. They also come in a wide variety of patterns with flecks, swirls or random designs. But unlike natural stone countertops, quartz countertops are engineered in a factory by combining ground quartz with polymer, resins and pigments.
The appearance of the quartz slabs depends on how they are ground. When the quartz is ground coarsely, the slab has a flecked appearance and when ground finely the slab appears smooth. The resin used makes these countertops resistant to stain and scratch. Here is all that you want to know about quart countertops.
Pros
- Quartz is an engineered product and is very attractive. It comes in a wide range of hues and patterns. Quartz countertops look classy and elegant.
- It is durable and does not easily chip or crack.
- Quartz countertops are stain and scratch resistant and are also chemical resistant.
- It is easy to clean and quartz countertops are relatively maintenance free. They can be cleaned with mild soap, water and washcloth. Owing to their non-porous attributes, quartz surfaces are highly resistant to microbial and bacterial growth.
- It is nonporous and so does not require any sealing or polishing. These countertops do not require the upkeep that other natural stones require.
Cons
- It is an engineered product and may lack the random veining of natural stones.
- It is expensive with prices ranging from $115 to $200 per square foot.
- You will have to hire a professional to install these countertops and this can potentially inflate your budget.
- The seams are very often visible on these engineered stone countertops. However, the seams may be less visible if you choose a darker color
- These countertops are durable yet not indestructible. Quartz countertops are not heat resistant. You need to exercise caution when using hot pans or pots. Take care to place extra-hot objects on trivets or heating pads.
- As quartz is made from resin, chances are that it might discolor when exposed to ultraviolet rays from the sun.