Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects in recent years. But what exactly is quartz and what makes it well-suited for use as a countertop material? This article will provide a comprehensive overview of quartz countertops, including what they are made of, their benefits and drawbacks compared to other countertop materials, and factors to consider when deciding whether quartz is the right choice for your next countertop installation or replacement project.
What is Quartz Made of?
Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone countertops, are made from crushed quartz crystals combined with resin and other materials. The exact composition can vary between specific brands and product lines, but quartz countertops typically contain:
- 90-94% ground quartz – This crushed mineral makes up the bulk of the material and provides the hard, durable properties quartz is known for.
- 6-10% polymer resins – Resins like polyester or epoxy are added as a binder to hold the quartz particles together.
- Pigments – Pigments are added to achieve the desired color and pattern. Many quartz slabs are designed to mimic natural stone like marble or granite.
Unlike solid surface materials such as Corian that are entirely synthetic, quartz derives its strength from the abundance of quartz crystals in the mixture. However, the resin binds the crystals into an durable, non-porous surface.
How are Quartz Countertops Made?
Quartz slabs are made in factories under carefully controlled conditions to produce consistent results. Here is a basic overview of the manufacturing process:
- Quartz crystals are first mined, then washed, crushed, and ground into a fine powder.
- The quartz powder is combined with resins, pigments, and other proprietary ingredients and mixed thoroughly.
- The mixture is compacted into slabs using a vacuum and vibration process to remove air pockets and ensure density.
- The slabs are then cured in a kiln at high temperatures to harden the resins.
- After curing, the slabs are polished to achieve the desired finish – either a glossy shine or a matte/textured surface.
- The slabs are inspected for quality and cut to specific dimensions using diamond-tipped blades.
- The fabricated slabs are shipped to distributors and fabricators to be installed as countertops.
So while natural quartz is mined, the slabs used for countertops are engineered composites made in a factory. This allows for consistent patterning and fewer structural imperfections than with natural stone.
Benefits of Quartz Countertops
There are many reasons why quartz has surged in popularity compared to granite, marble, and other natural stone countertop options:
- Durability – Quartz is highly resistant to scratches, chips, cracks, and heat damage up to around 212°F. The resin binds the quartz particles into a hard, non-porous surface.
- Low maintenance – Quartz requires very little maintenance compared to natural stone. Simple cleaning with soap and water keeps quartz looking like new.
- Resists staining – The non-porous surface makes quartz highly resistant to stains from food, liquids, and other sources.
- Consistent patterning – While striving to mimic natural stone, quartz offers more consistent speckling, veining, and coloring across slabs.
- Integrated sinks – Seamless, integrated sinks can be sculpted out of quartz slabs. This provides a sleek, hygienic installation.
- Wide color/finish options – From muted grays and whites to bold, vivid colors, quartz offers immense design flexibility. Matte finishes provide an attractive alternative to glossy granite.
- Good value – Quartz often costs less than natural stone while offering increased durability and consistency.
For these reasons, quartz has proven ideal for busy kitchens and baths where beauty, performance, and ease of maintenance are top priorities.
Drawbacks of Quartz Countertops
While offering clear advantages, quartz also comes with some downsides to consider:
- Seams more noticeable – The resin can give seams between adjoining slabs a more visible appearance than with natural stone. Good fabrication and installation can minimize the effect.
- Limited exotic aesthetics – While striking, quartz lacks the artistry, intricate patterning, and prestige of exotic marble and granite available at the high end.
- Heat sensitivity – Quartz can lose its polish, crack, or scorch if extremely hot pots/pans are placed directly on the surface. Using trivets is advisable.
- Repair challenges – Severely damaged quartz is not easily repairable. Cracks, chips, and stains can often mean replacing the entire slab.
- Higher cost than other materials – While competitive with natural stone, quartz still costs considerably more than laminate, tile, concrete, and other countertop materials on average.
Quartz is not indestructible, so some care in use and cleaning is required. For those desiring the absolute rarest and most prestigious natural stone, quartz may fail to impress. But for most kitchen and bath remodels where durability, maintenance, and appearance are priorities, quartz remains very competitively priced with granite and other upscale options.
How to Choose the Best Quartz Countertop
When selecting a quartz countertop, here are some helpful tips to get the best quality and appearance:
- Choose an engineered stone versus quartz tile – Seamless engineered quartz slabs are preferable to quartz tile which has more grout lines that can collect grime.
- Select a reputable brand – Leading brands like Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone have excellent reputations for quality and standing behind warranties.
- Examine the surface finish – Look for a smooth, consistent finish free of noticeable marks, pits, or scratches which can harbor germs.
- Match samples to your cabinets/fixtures – Make sure you view actual samples to see how the quartz complements your cabinets, flooring, and other fixtures.
- Consider impact on resale value – While personal taste matters most, very bold or unusual colors may impact eventual home resale value down the road.
- Check warranty coverage – Warranties typically run 10-15 years. Confirm what damage repair and replacement is covered under warranty terms.
- Read consumer reviews – Check reviews and complaints online about specific brands and colors to identify potential quality issues.
- Choose an experienced local fabricator – An expert fabricator will properly measure, cut, polish, and seamlessly install your new quartz countertop.
Doing your homework will help ensure you get beautiful, functional, and long-lasting quartz countertops. Consult a kitchen/bath remodeling contractor to further discuss brands, costs, timelines, and installation considerations.
Pros & Cons of Quartz vs. Granite Countertops
If deciding between quartz and granite, weighing the pros and cons may help determine the better choice:
Quartz Pros
- More consistent patterning and color
- Superior stain, scratch, and chip resistance
- Easier maintenance without yearly sealing
- Integrated sinks an option
- Greater diversity of colors/finishes
Quartz Cons
- Less prestigious than exotic granite
- Heat and damage sensitivity
- Seams more visible
- Costs more than laminate/tile
Granite Pros
- Prestigious, timeless material
- Greater diversity of exotic natural patterns
- Withstands extreme heat
- Can be repaired/re-polished over time
- Potentially higher resale value
Granite Cons
- More variation in patterning between slabs
- Requires yearly sealing to prevent stains
- Susceptible to chips, cracks, and scratches
- Darker colors can show etch marks and wear
When choosing between them, first consider your priorities – cooking needs, entertaining, aesthetics, ease of care, budgets, etc. If selecting granite, be sure to use sealers and trivets to protect the finish. For busy kitchens demanding easy care and family-friendly durability, quartz often proves the better choice.
How Much do Quartz Countertops Cost?
Quartz countertops range considerably in price depending on these key factors:
- Brand – Leading brands like Caesarstone and Cambria cost $70-150 per square foot installed. Lesser known brands can be $50-100 per square foot.
- Color/ Finish – Unusual colors and finishes command a slightly higher price. A matte finish reduces fingerprints. White/neutral tones are most affordable.
- Thickness – Standard thickness is 3/4″. Go thicker (1 1/4″ to 2″) for a sturdier feel and higher installed price.
- Supply Chain Issues – COVID-related supply chain disruptions have increased materials costs. Check on current trends.
- Fabrication & Installation – Count on spending $40-100 per hour for skilled fabrication and installation. Complex jobs with greater cutting demand more time.
- Special Features – Added costs apply for integrated sinks, special edges, backsplashes, and other customizations.
For an average to upscale kitchen, expect to invest $3,500 – $10,000 for high quality quartz countertops installed.
Caring for Quartz Countertops
Caring properly for quartz can help the surface retain its beauty and durability:
- Use trivets and hot pads – Avoid exposing quartz directly to pots/pans over 300°F to prevent scorching or cracks.
- Clean spills promptly – While quartz resists stains, promptly wiping up spills prevents permanent damage, especially from oils and acidic foods.
- Use non-abrasive cleaners – For routine cleaning, use a mild soap and water or stone-safe, non-abrasive cleaners. Avoid bleach and alkaline cleaners.
- Beware pressure and force – Refrain from applying excessive pressure that can chip the edges. Never cut food directly on the surface.
- Protect from UV light – Prolonged, intense ultraviolet light can slowly cause quartz to fade or yellow. Control outdoor light exposure.
- Check manufacturer care tips – Follow all use and care instructions from your specific brand’s documentation.
With proper care, your quartz countertops should maintain their durability and appearance for many years. Consult your installer or manufacturer if uncertain how to clean or repair any minor damage that occurs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Quartz Countertops
Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about quartz countertops:
Is quartz healthier than granite?
Quartz offers some health advantages relative to natural stone like granite. The non-porous, stain-resistant surface makes quartz less likely to harbor bacteria and germs. Quartz also lacks the natural radioactivity found in some granite. Both materials are considered food-safe and hygienic when properly cleaned.
How long do quartz countertops last?
With proper care and maintenance, quartz countertops typically last 25-30 years or longer. Many quartz brands offer warranties of 15 years or more against defects. Over time, some wear, loss of shine, or minor scuffs can occur. But quartz should withstand years of heavy use when cared for properly.
Can you cut on quartz countertops?
It’s best to avoid cutting or chopping directly on quartz. While durable, subjecting quartz to sharp knife blades risks eventual scratches and marks over time. Always use a cutting board instead of cutting food directly on quartz.
Is quartz porous?
No, quartz has a non-porous surface that resists liquid penetration, making it very stain-resistant. In contrast, natural stone like granite is slightly porous and requires periodic sealing to prevent stains. The polymeric resins used to make quartz fill in pores and create a waterproof, impervious surface.
Can you etch quartz countertops?
Yes, acidic substances like lemon juice, wine, and tomatoes can potentially etch (corrode) the surface of quartz and leave faint marks if left to sit. While quartz resists staining, highly acidic foods and liquids should be wiped up quickly. Avoid letting them sit for prolonged periods.
Does quartz need to be sealed?
No, quartz does not require any sealing, unlike natural stone. The non-porous surface prevents staining agents from being absorbed into the material. This means maintenance is easier relative to granite and other natural stones that require periodic sealing.
Is quartz antimicrobial?
Some quartz products contain silver ions or other antimicrobial additives to help inhibit the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew. Brands market this feature for additional peace of mind, though proper cleaning of any quartz surface eliminates most germs.
Does quartz stain?
Quartz is highly stain-resistant but not 100% stain-proof. Prolonged exposure to oils, dyes, or pigments can potentially stain the surface. Quick cleanup of spills prevents most staining. Avoid leaving liquids with strong pigments sitting for extended time.
Is quartz toxic?
Quartz engineered stone surfaces are considered non-toxic when legally manufactured. Quartz contains crystalline silica bound in the resin matrix, posing no inhalation risk. Regulations ensure legally made quartz materials are free of heavy metals and other toxins hazardous to human health.
Conclusion
With its durability, stylish appearance, low maintenance needs, and resistance to stains, quartz has emerged as a premier countertop choice for contemporary kitchens and baths. Made from crushed quartz bound with resin, quartz offers the look of natural stone without some of granite’s drawbacks. While no material is flawless, quartz provides an optimal balance of performance, beauty, and practicality. Investing in high quality quartz from reputable brands results in enduring countertops that should provide many years of satisfaction. With some basic care and sensible use, quartz countertops will retain their like-new sheen and quality. For homeowners seeking countertops combining elegance and everyday functionality, quartz remains a top contender.
Summary: What is Quartz for Countertops?
- Quartz countertops are engineered stone made from 90% ground quartz crystals blended with resins and pigments.
- The manufacturing process compacts the mixture into slabs which are polished and cut to size. This creates a hard, non-porous surface.
- Benefits of quartz include durability, stain resistance, low maintenance, and a wide range of colors/finishes. Drawbacks can include higher costs and seams being more visible.
- Quartz performs well compared to natural stone like granite. Quartz requires less maintenance and is less prone to damage. Granite offers a prestigious, timeless look but needs periodic sealing.
- Cost for installed quartz countertops ranges from $80-150 per square foot depending on the brand, color, and fabrication complexity.
- Caring for quartz involves preventing extreme heat exposure, prompt cleaning of spills, and using non-abrasive cleaners to maintain the surface.
- Quartz is considered a hygienic, family-friendly, and durable surfacing material that should provide lasting performance and beauty in kitchens and baths.