Are Quartz Countertops for Your Kitchen? You Decide
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 Among the most popular stone surfaces in kitchen remodeling are quartz
countertops. That said, quartz countertops are not ideal for every home nor every homeowner. Deciding to
invest in these surfaces should involve understanding both the benefits and the drawbacks of the ownership and
maintenance of this material. This way, you will know what to expect in terms of performance, but also in
care, appearance, durability, and other important factors. Use the following information to get to know quartz
countertops and whether or not they would be well suited to your expectations and your kitchen décor.
Quartz countertops: the name can be confusingWhile shopping for quartz countertops, make sure that you’re
investigating the right material, as the process itself can be confusing. There are 3 different kinds of surfaces
that are often referred to as “quartz”. These include the cultured or engineered quartz counter, the rare
all-natural stone slab – both of which will be explained below – and quartzite surfaces. The first two involve
natural quartz, while quartzite is different. Quartzite is often confused for quartz because of its resemblance and
similar name, but it remains a different kind of natural stone with its own unique features and price range.
Quartz countertops: the cultured/engineered counter
Some quartz countertops are called
“cultured”, and also referred to as composite or engineered. They are very common and can contain any number of
various minerals in their mix. To produce these counters, manufacturers add approx. 93% ground quartz to a blend of
high-tech, highly durable synthetic polymer resins, which is poured and then allowed to set. These sheets are then
finished into the shape and style that is desired. So the grinding, blending, and shaping are what make these more
of a man-made or engineered solid surface form of quartz countertops.
Quartz countertops: the “real deal” slabsAlthough very rare, you can also buy all-natural quartz
countertops in the form of polished slabs. These are much higher end pieces, but they possess unequalled beauty.
They can contribute tremendously to the look and value of a kitchen. A cultured or engineered kitchen counter
cannot compare to the look and strength of natural stone quartz countertops. That said, the price does rise
significantly when you want the real thing. So you will need to consult your budget to make sure that this material
will fit into it.
Quartz countertops: beauty and hardnessLike other types of solid natural stone counter materials such as
granite, quartz countertops are extremely hard, to the point that they are often referred to as “indestructible”.
Naturally, there are some vulnerabilities, but this stone solid surface (engineered or not) is extremely difficult
to scratch or damage in everyday use.
Quartz countertops: almost no maintenance requiredAs the everyday care for quartz countertops is quite
simple, and cleaning is very easy, you may expect that they will also require additional maintenance, such as the
sealing required by granite. With quartz countertops, this is not the case. They are a non porous surface, so no
sealing is required, and you do not need to add any additional level of maintenance in order to preserve the
natural beauty of the stone.
Quartz countertops: a variety of styles for kitchen décorQuartz comes in a surprising range of different
colors for a natural stone, allowing you a wide choice of options to create a style or to match your décor.
Moreover, quartz countertops are highly resistant to staining, scratching, and chipping, which means that the
appeal of the color and beauty of the stone can last for a long time.
Quartz countertops can be a gorgeous addition to many kitchens. They are beautiful and versatile to complement
new or existing décor, and are extremely durable so that they will last a long time. Equally, though, they can be
very costly. These beautiful counters, either in the more common engineered stone or in the rare slab form, should
certainly be considered if they fit into your remodeling budget.
Related Articles:
- Granite Versus Quartz Countertops: Which One Should You
Buy
- What is a Zodiaq Quartz Countertop? Get the Answers Before You Buy
- The 5 Steps to Make Quartz Countertops for Kitchens
- A Review of Your Choices for Quartz Countertop Colors
- A 4-Step Guide for Estimating Quartz Countertop Pricing
- 4 Questions to Ask to Get to Know Quartzite Countertops
- How to Design a Kitchen with White Quartzite Countertops
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