Benefits of Quartz Countertops
Overview of Quartz Countertops
Beautiful, durable, and easy to care for and clean, quartz countertops offer numerous benefits, making them one of the most popular choices among homeowners. In fact, the vast majority of our clients prefer quartz to granite.
When comparing the two, the key difference lies in their composition: granite is a 100% natural stone, while quartz countertops are made from a combination of natural quartz and man-made resin. This blend gives quartz its superior durability and low-maintenance qualities.
So What Makes a Quartz Countertop Good?
Since its introduction to homes, quartz countertops have evolved significantly. First appearing in Italy in the 1960s, these countertops were created by combining ground quartz particles with resins to form a durable slab. This innovation offered a crack-resistant alternative to natural stone. While early quartz countertops were limited to dull cream and tan colors, advancements in solid-surface technology have transformed them from functional to fabulous.
Today, quartz countertops come in a wide array of finishes and color combinations, making it easy to find a stunning option that suits your home. Besides their beauty, quartz countertops are remarkably easy to maintain. Unlike granite and other natural stones, which require special sealants and careful upkeep, quartz is low-maintenance.
What's the science behind it all? Quartz countertops are composed of 90 to 94 percent ground quartz and 6 to 10 percent polymer resins and pigments. This blend produces a slab as hard as granite, allowing you to achieve the look of luxurious marble swirls or earthy natural stone without the associated maintenance. Additionally, quartz is more resistant to scratching and cracking than many natural countertop materials, making it a practical and attractive choice for any home.
What are the Pros and Cons of Quartz?
Thanks to its non-porous nature, quartz is stain and mildew-resistant, making it effortless to keep not only clean but also germ- and bacteria-free. Another advantage is its resistance to heat damage—up to a point. Manufacturers market quartz as able to withstand temperatures up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, which is one reason it works well as fireplace surrounds.
However, it's important to be cautious of "thermal shock." This can occur when placing a hot pan directly from the oven or stove top onto a cold quartz countertop, potentially leading to cracking or discoloration. While quartz resists staining because liquids can't penetrate its surface, it's not 100 percent stain-proof. Therefore, it's crucial to clean up spills promptly to preserve the original color of quartz countertops.
Now, let's talk about price. One of the main considerations when choosing quartz is its higher cost compared to alternatives. While a preformed or laminate countertop may cost a few hundred dollars, quartz countertops typically range between $70 to $100 per square foot installed, comparable to the price of natural stone countertops. For a mid-sized kitchen, you can expect to spend several thousand dollars on quartz.
It's also essential to note that if you're planning a backyard kitchen, quartz is not suitable for outdoor installation. Exposure to the sun's UV rays can break down the resin binders, leading to fading and eventual warping of the countertop.
Learn about the Quartz Installation Process
Once you have selected your style of quartz for your countertop, the installation process is fairly straightforward:
Firstly, your quartz fabricator will come to your home to measure your cabinets and create a template for the countertop. You can expect an average of two weeks for the countertop to be made.
Next, the new countertop is installed directly on the base cabinets using adhesive—no underlayment is required. Installers will precisely fit any seams as necessary, filling them with epoxy resin that matches the countertop. Typically, it takes from a few hours to a full day to install a typical quartz countertop.
Finally, the plumber can proceed with installing under-sink plumbing. However, your contractor may choose to install the backsplash first; either way, the quartz countertop installation is complete.
How to Keep Quartz Looking Great?
Besides the look and aesthetics, the beauty of quartz lies in how easy it is to care for your new countertop. However, there are a few crucial do’s and don’ts you need to know about.
Do’s:
Wipe up spills promptly with paper towels or a damp cloth. Even though quartz is non-porous, liquids like wine and coffee can stain the surface if allowed to dry.
Use an all-purpose spray kitchen cleaner or mild commercial household cleaner for daily cleaning needs.
Safely scrub away sticky food residue with a non-scratch nylon pad or sponge.
Use a spray glass cleaner and buff the surface dry with a clean towel for a streak-free shine. Opt for a mild, oil-based cleaner (like Goo Gone) to remove tough ink or dye stains, and then rinse with plain water.
Immediately tackle tough cleaning spots, such as splattered grease, by spraying your countertop with a kitchen degreasing cleaner and leaving it on for 5 to 10 minutes before wiping away with a clean damp cloth.
Don’ts:
Don’t use or spill acidic or high-alkaline products on your countertop. While quartz tolerates cleaners in the mid-pH range, products that fall on either end of the pH scale can dull its luster.
Avoid spills from drain cleaners, oven cleaners, acetone (fingernail polish remover), paint remover, solvents, bleach, dishwasher rinse agents, and any products that contain trichlorethane or methylene chloride. If you’re uncertain whether a product is appropriate for quartz, don’t use it.
Keep abrasive cleaners or scrubbers away from your quartz countertop. Scouring powders and steel pads can scratch and dull the surface.
Refrain from using a metal knife to remove hardened food items, such as stuck-on candy-making spills. Instead, use a plastic putty knife to gently scrape them away.
Using your quartz countertop as a cutting surface is discouraged. Use a separate cutting board to prevent knife marks.
Avoid setting hot pans directly on the countertop, as it can cause discoloration and cracking. Use trivets to protect your quartz countertop.
Conclusion
Despite the higher upfront cost of quartz, the long-term benefits can outweigh these initial expenses. When considering the overall added value to your home and the reliability of using a high-quality, beautiful countertop that will last the life of your home, choosing quartz can be a no-brainer for many homeowners. In conclusion, the main benefits of a quartz countertop to keep in mind are:
Stain and Mildew Resistance: Due to its non-porous nature, quartz is stain and mildew-resistant, making it easy to keep clean, germ-free, and bacteria-free.
Durability: Quartz offers harder and more durable surfaces than many other countertop materials, ensuring longevity and minimal maintenance requirements.
Versatility: With a wide variety of looks and styles available, you can achieve the perfect aesthetic for your home with quartz countertops.
