Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodels in recent years. Made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments, quartz counters are praised for their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance. But are quartz countertops really as good as they seem? Here’s an in-depth look at the pros and cons of quartz countertops to help you decide if they are the right choice for your home.
What is Quartz?
Quartz is a mineral found abundantly in nature. It is incredibly hard and durable, ranking just under diamonds on the Mohs hardness scale. Quartz crystals are ground down and combined with resins, polymers, and pigments to create an engineered stone material for countertops.
The result is a non-porous, stain-resistant, and low-maintenance surface that comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns. The quartz content in most slabs ranges from 90-95%, with resins and pigments making up the rest.
Pros of Quartz Countertops
Extremely Durable and Impact Resistant
With a Mohs hardness rating of 7 out of 10, quartz counters are harder than granite (rated 6 to 7) and much more impact resistant than solid surface materials like Corian. They can withstand years of wear and tear without showing signs of damage.
Quartz won’t chip or scratch under normal use and can be used in busy kitchens without worry of damage from knives or falling pots and pans. The material is unaffected by typical impacts that would easily damage other surfaces.
Low Maintenance
One of the biggest perks of quartz is that it requires very little maintenance compared to natural stone. Quartz does not need to be sealed, conditioned, or regularly polished like granite. At most, quartz only needs occasional cleaning with mild soap and water to keep it looking like new.
Quartz resists stains, etching, water marks, and heat damage better than granite. It creates a hassle-free countertop that stays beautiful with simple care.
Non-Porous
With low porosity, quartz counters do not harbor bacteria or need sealing to prevent staining and contamination. Liquids and spills stay on the surface and don’t seep into the material.
Greater Flexibility in Colors and Patterns
While granite and marble are limited to the natural variations found in stone, quartz offers immense flexibility in colors, patterns, and finishes.
Vibrant solid colors, realistic patterns replicating materials like marble and granite, and unique modern textures are all possible with quartz. This freedom of design allows quartz counters to fit a wider array of decorative styles.
Integrated Sinks and Backsplashes
Seamless built-in sinks and backsplashes can be fabricated from your quartz countertop slab. This delivers a streamlined, upscale look not possible with every material.
Less Maintenance Than Granite
Quartz requires less regular sealing and conditioning compared to natural granite. While granite must be protected from staining and only certain cleaners used, quartz is lower maintenance day-to-day.
More Consistent Appearance
While natural stone has unique variations from slab to slab, quartz delivers reliable color and patterning uniformity for all installed countertops. This guarantees counters in large kitchens will match perfectly.
Cons of Quartz Countertops
Can Be Prone to Heat Damage
While quartz is resistant to typical kitchen heat exposure, placing very hot pots or pans directly on the surface can damage quartz. Trivets or hot pads should be used. Quartz manufacturers state that the material can withstand brief exposure to temperatures up to 150 degrees.
Seams May Be Noticeable
For larger islands or countertops, seams where two quartz slabs are joined may be apparent. The seams can be felt or seen on close inspection depending on the installer’s skill.
Needs Occasional Resealing of Seams
While the quartz surface itself never needs sealing, the seams between slabs will need occasional resealing to prevent moisture intrusion. Most manufacturers recommend resealing once a year.
Less Unique Than Natural Stone
While the diversity of quartz patterns and colors is immense, it still does not match the true one-of-a-kind look and nuances of natural granite and marble. For those desiring a highly unique stone look, quartz may appear too uniform.
Can Be Prone to Chips and Cracks
Though resistant to scratches, quartz can chip if subjected to heavy impact. Cracks are also possible although relatively rare without excessive force.
Higher Cost Than Laminates
Quartz is priced higher than affordable options like granite tile and plastic laminates. Shoppers on tight budgets may find quartz too expensive.
Limited Thicknesses Available
Quartz slabs usually come in just 3/4 inch or 1 1/4 inch thicknesses, which does not offer the variety of options possible with granite or soapstone.
Should You Choose Quartz Countertops?
Quartz delivers an unbeatable combination of fashionable good looks, extreme durability, and hassle-free maintenance. The material offers modern families peace of mind that their investment will last for decades with minimal upkeep required. Busy cooks don’t have to fret over scratching or staining the surface.
For homeowners seeking stylish worry-free counters that hold up to years of heavy use, quartz is hard to beat. The variety of colors and patterns available in quartz opens up unique design possibilities that aren’t possible with natural stone. Seamless modern looks with integrated sinks and backsplashes make a bold design statement.
However, quartz may not be the ideal choice for every home. Those desiring a highly unique natural look may be happier with granite or marble. Home chefs who frequently placeextremely hot pots and pans directly on the counter may want to opt for a more heat-tolerant surface material. And buyers on a very strict budget will find more affordable options.
But for most homes, quartz offers the perfect blend of fashion, function, and enduring quality. Countless busy families trust quartz counters to provide durable, carefree beauty for decades to come. Thanks to its distinctive benefits, quartz continues to be one of the most preferred options for new countertop installations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Quartz Countertops
Is quartz healthier than granite?
Quartz is considered just as healthy as granite since both are natural stone materials. However, quartz requires less sealing and generally has lower porosity making it more stain and bacteria resistant.
Is a quartz countertop a good investment?
Quartz counters are an excellent investment thanks to their durable composition, timeless styles, and low maintenance needs. With simple care, quartz countertops retain their beauty and function for many years, avoiding the need for frequent replacement.
How durable is quartz?
With a Mohs hardness of 7 out of 10, quartz offers extreme durability. It resists scratches, chips, cracks, stains, heat damage and etching better than granite and other natural stones.
Can you cut on quartz countertops?
Yes, quartz is rated to withstand normal kitchen use including cutting with sharp knives. Use a cutting board to preserve the surface and avoid dulling your blades.
Do quartz countertops stain?
Quartz is non-porous and highly stain resistant. However, prolonged exposure to strong pigments or dyes can stain the surface. Most everyday spills wipe away easily. Avoid leaving strongly colored liquids on the counter for long periods.
How often should quartz countertops be sealed?
Quartz does not require sealing like natural stone. Sealing the seams between slabs once a year is recommended, but the quartz surface itself is maintenance-free.
Conclusion
With strengths including durability, stain resistance, easy maintenance and stylish design versatility, quartz makes an exceptional and practical choice for kitchen and bathroom countertops. Models like Caesarstone, Silestone and Cambria offer quality construction and reliable performance. While no material is perfect, quartz delivers exceptional function and beauty sure to delight families for decades after installation.