Natural quartz countertops are engineered stone surfaces made from one of the hardest minerals on earth. Quartz crystals are abundant in nature and when crushed and blended with resin, pigments, and other compounds, create an extremely durable, non-porous, and low maintenance alternative to natural stone countertops.
What Makes Quartz Countertops Natural?
While natural quartz countertops are engineered in a factory, they contain a high percentage of quartz crystals which are found in nature. The key characteristics of natural quartz countertops include:
- Made from 90-94% ground quartz crystals bonded with resin, pigments, and other compounds. The high quartz content gives it strength and durability.
- Considered “natural” because real quartz is mined from the earth. It is crushed, processed and manufactured into slabs.
- More consistent in color and patterns than natural stone since the distribution of quartz particles and pigments can be controlled.
- Non-porous surface resists stains, etching, and water damage unlike natural stone.
- Durable, scratch-resistant, and heat-resistant – can withstandusages in kitchens.
- Requires very little maintenance compared to natural stone.
So while manufactured, the high natural quartz content gives the material its super-strong structure and “natural” descriptive terminology.
How Natural Quartz Countertops Are Made
Natural quartz surfaces are made through an engineered process of mixing and compacting stone materials then forming into slabs. Here is a summary of how natural quartz countertops are manufactured:
1. Sourcing the Raw Materials
- Quartz Aggregates – Mined quartz crystals are cleaned, ground, screened and blended for consistent sizing of the aggregates.
- Unsaturated Polyester Resins – Act as the binding agent for the quartz aggregates. Provides adhesion, cures the slab and gives the product its durability and water-resistance.
- Pigments – Added to achieve the desired colors and patterns. Can be natural colored compounds or synthetic pigments that withstand UV light.
2. Mixing the Compounds Under Vacuum
- The quartz aggregates, resin, and pigments are measured and mixed together under vacuum. This removes air pockets and allows a compact structure.
3. Molding and Compacting into Slabs
- The mixture is poured into molds or compacted into slabs of various thicknesses. Vibrating the molds removes air bubbles and condenses the mixture.
4. Curing and Finishing
- After the engineered slabs are set, they are cured in ovens or rooms that control temperature and humidity. This hardens the resin.
- The slabs are then polished on both sides and the edges to achieve the desired finishes and visual effects.
5. Inspecting and Packaging
- Each slab is inspected for quality control. Quartz manufactures have strict standards for color consistency, flaws and surface finishing.
- Slabs that pass inspection are packaged and shipped. Retailers and fabricators place orders of pre-selected colors and designs.
So while not truly “natural”, the high-percentage of quartz makes it harder and more durable than most granite or marble surfaces. The engineered process eliminates inconsistencies in natural stone.
Pros and Cons of Natural Quartz Countertops
Natural quartz is one of the most popular options for modern countertops. Here are some notable advantages and disadvantages:
Pros of Quartz Countertops
- Extremely durable – hardness and scratch resistance of natural quartz crystals.
- Non-porous – resists staining, etching and water damage. Requires minimal sealing.
- Antibacterial – silver ions added during manufacturing inhibit bacteria growth.
- Low maintenance – simple soap and water cleaning.
- Heat, impact, and scratch resistant.
- Consistent patterns and coloring.
- Stylish modern appearance – wide range of colors and finishing.
Cons of Quartz Countertops
- Not 100% natural stone. Contains resin fillers and pigments.
- Can chip if subjected to extreme impact. Not fully bulletproof.
- Seams are more visible than natural stone.
- Quartz has a manufactured appearance that some dislike.
- More expensive than laminate but cheaper than natural stone.
How to Care for Quartz Countertops
Caring for quartz countertops is simple due to the durable non-porous surface. Here are some tips for cleaning and maintenance:
- For daily cleaning, use mild soap and water. Rinse thoroughly.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads that may dull the surface.
- Disinfect surface periodically with bleach or disinfectant wipes. Rinse after use.
- Although resistant to stains, rinse spills quickly, especially wine, coffee and tomato sauce.
- Use a cutting board to avoid dulling knives or scratching the surface.
- Avoid exposing to strong chemicals like paint removers or oven cleaners.
- Resealing is not required but an annual application can help enhance water resistance.
With simple care, quartz countertops will retain their beauty and duribility for many years. Taking a few precautions will help your quartz surface avoid stains, scratches and damage.
What are Quartz Countertops Used For?
Quartz surfaces are extremely versatile and used for a wide variety of applications:
- Kitchen Countertops – An ideal surface material – durable, heat and water-resistant. Stylish for modern kitchen designs.
- Bathroom Vanities – Adds style and luxury. Withstands humidity and water. Easy to keep clean.
- Shower Walls – Use large format tiles or slabs. Non-porous and waterproof surface.
- Backsplashes – Stylish addition behind sinks and stoves. Protects walls from moisture and stains. Easily cleaned.
- Fireplace Surrounds – Durable surface that can withstand heat from fires. Visually appealing.
- Tabletops – For dining tables, desks, conference tables, etc. Scratch proof and easy to maintain.
Quartz’s durability, non-porous traits, and stylish patterns allow it to be used in residential, commercial and industrial settings. Adding quartz surfaces creates a modern, luxury feel.
Natural Quartz Countertops – Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about natural quartz countertops:
Is Quartz More Durable Than Granite?
Yes, quartz rates 7-8 on the Mohs scale of hardness compared to granite at 6-7. The high quartz content creates an extremely hard material resistant to scratches, cuts and heat damage.
Can You Cut on Quartz Countertops?
It’s better to use a cutting board to protect the surface. The material is somewhat scratch resistant but cutting directly on the countertop will eventually damage the surface over time.
Do Quartz Countertops Stain Easily?
No. Quartz is non-porous so it generally resists stains, especially oily kitchen types. Some liquids like wine can stain if left to soak so prompt cleaning is advised.
Is Quartz Healthier Than Granite?
Yes, quartz has natural antibacterial properties and resists mold, bacteria, and microbes. Granite can harbor bacteria in the porous surface. Quartz requires little sealing.
How Much do Quartz Countertops Cost?
On average, $80-100 per square foot installed. More than laminate but less than natural stone. Cost depends on quality, design complexity, and local labor rates.
Conclusion
Natural quartz countertops provide unparalleled performance and beauty without the high cost and maintenance needs of natural stone surfaces. Made from one of earth’s hardest minerals but enhanced by technology, quartz offers the best qualities of both natural and man-made materials. With innovative engineering, quartz surfaces are now able to mimic the beauty of marble and granite but with added durability. For those seeking stylish low-maintenance countertops, natural quartz provides an ideal solution.