Quartz countertops have become immensely popular in recent years for home kitchens and bathrooms. Made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments, quartz offers an attractive, durable, and low-maintenance surface. But what exactly is quartz made of?
The Composition of Quartz Countertops
The key ingredient in quartz countertops is natural quartz crystals. Quartz is one of the hardest minerals found in nature, so it is extremely durable and scratch-resistant. Quartz crystals are mined, then ground into a fine powder.
This quartz powder is then combined with resins, polymers, and pigments. The resins act as a binding agent, while polymers provide additional durability and flexibility. Pigments are added to the mix to achieve the desired color and pattern.
Common resins used include polyester, epoxy, and acrylic. Polymers such as polypropylene may be added as well. The pigments can create various colors and make the countertop look like natural stone.
Typical Proportions of Materials
A typical quartz countertop contains about 90% ground quartz by volume. The remaining 10% consists of polymers, resins, and pigments.
Here is a breakdown of the approximate composition:
- 90% ground quartz crystals
- 7-10% polyresin or epoxy binders
- 2-5% polymer additives
- 1-2% pigments
The exact proportions can vary between quartz countertop manufacturers. But quartz will always be the predominant material making up the bulk of the countertop.
How the Ingredients Create an Ideal Countertop
The combination of materials gives quartz countertops their unique properties that make them an excellent choice for kitchens and bathrooms.
- Quartz crystals provide hardness, durability, and scratch resistance.
- Resins bind the material together into a solid, non-porous surface.
- Polymers add to the strength and flexibility.
- Pigments infuse rich colors and patterns.
Together, these ingredients create a countertop that is attractive, strong, waterproof, stain-resistant, heat and scratch resistant. It also lacks the maintenance needs of natural stone.
Why Quartz is Preferred Over Solid Natural Stone
Natural stone countertops like granite must be regularly sealed to prevent stains and damage. Marble is prone to etching from acids. But quartz provides the beauty of stone without these downsides.
- Non-porous, so no sealing needed
- Not vulnerable to etching or scratching
- Wider range of colors and patterns
- Consistent appearance since it is engineered
For these reasons, engineered quartz has surpassed granite and marble as the most popular higher-end countertop option.
How Quartz Countertops Are Manufactured
Once the ingredients are combined, the quartz material is molded into slabs under intense pressure and vibration. This compacting creates a dense, solid surface.
The slabs are then polished to a glossy finish using diamond-tipped tools. Precision cutting shapes them into finished countertop pieces ready for installation.
So while made in a factory, quartz countertops offer the beauty of natural stone. The manufacturing process allows for more color and pattern consistency not found in mined materials.
Grades of Quartz Countertops
Not all quartz countertops are created equal. Higher-quality grades will have a higher percentage of quartz, resulting in better performance.
Commercial grade – Contains just crushed quartz bound with minimal resin. Prone to scratches and cracks.
Standard grade – 93-97% quartz content. Good durability at a moderate price point.
High/Premium grade – Over 97% quartz. Most scratch, stain, and heat resistant.
Premium grade quartz costs more but will likely outperform lower quality types over years of use.
Is Quartz Made from Natural Materials?
While engineered and manufactured, quartz countertops are composed almost entirely of natural materials:
- Crystals formed naturally in the earth over millions of years.
- Pigments derived from natural iron oxides.
- Resins from largely natural components.
The small amounts of polymer, resin, and pigments give quartz its added performance benefits. But real stone makes up the majority of the countertop.
So quartz offers the look and feel of a natural stone surface. But its engineered nature gives it added durability and consistency.
Quartz vs. Other Countertop Materials
Quartz vs. Granite – Quartz lacks the pores and natural variations that require sealing granite. It won’t etch from acidic foods either.
Quartz vs. Marble – Quartz lacks the softness and etching potential of marble. Its color and polish are consistent throughout.
Quartz vs. Laminate – Quartz is stronger, more waterproof, and looks more like real stone. It won’t warp or peel.
Quartz vs. Solid Surfaces – Quartz is harder, more scratch resistant, and less prone to damage from heat.
Quartz vs. Tile – Large quartz slabs have fewer seams than tile and are easier to keep clean.
Is There Any Maintenance Required for Quartz?
Basic care is simple:
- For everyday cleaning, wipe down with a soft cloth and warm soapy water.
- Disinfect occasionally with a stone cleaner or diluted bleach.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads.
- Use trivets or hot pads under hot pans to prevent thermal shock.
With proper care, quartz countertops will stay looking like new for many years. No sealing or polishing is needed. Just clean spills promptly and avoid damage from impacts or excessive heat.
Conclusion
While engineered in a factory, quartz countertops predominantly contain ground natural quartz crystals, giving an authentic stone appearance. The small amounts of polymers, resins, and pigments create an extremely durable, low-maintenance, and stain-resistant surface. Quartz offers the beauty of natural stone without all the upkeep. For this reason, quartz has surged in popularity in recent years to become the top choice in higher-end countertop materials.