What Quartz Countertops are all about

Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodels in recent years. Known for their durability, low maintenance, and customization options, quartz counters offer homeowners an attractive and practical alternative to more traditional materials like granite and marble. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about quartz countertops, from how they are made to their pros and cons, costs, styles, maintenance and more.

An Introduction to Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The result is a man-made material that is non-porous, stain resistant, and incredibly durable. Quartz counters are about 93-97% ground quartz combined with 7-10% polymer resins that bind the material together. Pigments are added to produce the various colors and patterns available.

Unlike natural stone materials, which are mined in large slabs, quartz counters are fabricated in factories under precise conditions. This allows for more consistency in color, pattern, and performance. The material is molded into slabs which are then finished and polished to achieve the desired surfaces.

The resins make quartz non-porous, so it does not require sealing or harbor bacteria growth. The quartz crystals make the material very hard and scratch resistant. Overall, quartz offers reliability, durability, and easy maintenance unmatched by many other countertop materials.

Pros and Cons of Quartz Countertops

Pros

Extremely durable and scratch resistant surface
Stain, heat, and water resistant
Non-porous so does not need sealing
Antibacterial
Available in wide range of colors and patterns
Seamless appearance
Low maintenance
Resists chips, cracks and damage
Won’t etch from acidic foods
Man-made for consistent quality
Can mimic looks of natural stone
Integrated sinks and backsplashes available
More affordable than natural stone

Cons

Not heat proof (use trivets for hot pans)
Can be damaged by excessive force/impact
Seams may be noticeable on certain patterns
Limited number of suppliers
Less uniqueness than natural stone
Can lose gloss over time

How Quartz Countertops Are Made

The manufacturing process for quartz slabs consists of several steps:

Mining the Raw Materials: High purity quartz is mined and processed into a fine powder. Polymer resins, pigments, and any additional materials are gathered.
Mixing the Compounds: The quartz crystals, resins, and color pigments are combined and mixed thoroughly to achieve a homogeneous material. Different ratios create different product lines.
Molding the Slabs: The compound is pressed into molds under vibration and vacuum conditions to remove air pockets. Pressure up to 100 tons can be used to form slabs.
Curing the Material: The pressed slabs cure in a kiln so the resins can permanently harden and bind to the quartz crystals. Curing gives the material its strength.
Finishing the Surface: Once cured, the slabs are sanded, polished, and calibrated to achieve the desired thickness and finish. Most slab are around 2 cm thick. Additional treatments can enhance stain resistance.
Quality Control Inspections: Throughout the process, quality control checks are conducted to ensure proper materials, ratios, curing, and performance.
Fabrication and Installation: Slabs are cut, edged, and installed per customer specifications to create countertops. Experienced fabricators are key for proper seams and fit.

Costs of Quartz Countertops

Quartz is generally cheaper than natural stone but more expensive than materials like laminate. Costs can range from $50-150 per square foot installed depending on the brand, pattern, and area labor rates. Basic entry-level quartz counters cost $70-100 per square foot while premium designer brands run $100-150 per square foot.

Factors affecting overall costs:

Brand – Entry level vs premium
Pattern – Simple vs complex detailing
Thickness – 2 cm vs 3 cm
Edge treatments – Built-up vs standard
Labor rates in your location
Amount of material needed
Specialty work like integrated sinks

Always get 3-4 quotes from qualified local installers. Beware of quotes that seem suspiciously cheap.

Styles of Quartz Countertops

From minimalist to boldly ornate, quartz counters come in a wide range of styles. Here are some of the most popular:

Solid Colors

Simple and clean, solid quartz countertops in tones like white, black, gray, or cream work well in modern and minimalist spaces. The lack of movement hides seams.

Whites & Creams

Softer white and cream palettes lend an airy, natural look. Great for light and airy spaces. The tones hide everyday messes.

Marbles

Replicating the veining and swirls of marble, quartz marble patterns have an elegant, timeless appeal. The variety of color tones work well in traditional decors.

Granites

The unique speckles of granites can be emulated in quartz materials, offering a stylish multicolored look. Rich dark granites evoke drama.

Metallics

Glistening metals like silver, gold, copper, and platinum are used to create dazzling countertops. The shine and luster embody glamour.

Nature-Inspired

Earthy patterns mimicking natural motifs like stone, wood grain, terrazzo, and concrete offer an organic vibe. Great for rustic, farmhouse, or bohemian spaces.

Colors: Beyond patterns, quartz comes in every color of the rainbow. Bold brights add youthful energy. Neutral earth tones feel soothing. Dark moody hues convey sophistication.

Popular Quartz Countertop Brands

There are about 10 major companies manufacturing quartz slabs worldwide. Here are some of the top brands:

Caesarstone – One of the first quartz makers, leading brand. Huge color range.
Cambria – Considered high-end. Stylish designs, natural feel. Made in the USA.
Silestone – Parent company is Cosentino. Great reputation, vast collections.
LG Viatera – High-tech patented manufacturing, vivid solid colors.
Hanstone – Parent company is Hyundai. Affordable pricing, unique styles.
DuPont Zodiaq – Quality quartz from chemical giant DuPont.
Quartzforms – Made by Aria Stone Gallery. Great value, smaller provider.
Vicostone – High-end brand made in Vietnam known for premium white and black.
Santa Margherita – Offering natural Italian craftsmanship and design.
Okite – Specializes in very glossy ultra-reflective quartz slabs.

Brand is one consideration when selecting quartz counters. Be sure to also assess color, pattern, warranty details, thickness, and price. Some smaller brands offer excellent value while bigger names promote brand recognition and prestige.

Things to Consider When Choosing Quartz

Selecting the perfect quartz countertop involves evaluating your needs, goals, and tastes:

Use – Heavy prep areas benefit from more durable patterns.
Style – Make sure the aesthetic matches your decor – traditional vs contemporary.
Color – Consider undertones that match cabinets and flooring.
Pattern – Busy granites hide messes while solids show seams.
Maintenance – Some textures resist fingerprints and scratches better.
Edges – Decorative edges cost more but add visual interest.
Thickness – Thicker 3 cm options are more rigid and robust.
Warranty – Longer warranties provide more protection.
Brand – Weigh reputation, stock availability, and pricing.
Budget – Look at full installed costs, not just material price per square foot.

Take time to view many types of quartz in different lighting conditions to find the optimal aesthetic. Large slab samples from fabricators are ideal. If possible, visit installed counters.

Benefits of Quartz Over Other Countertop Materials

Quartz counters offer many advantages compared to other leading countertop materials:

vs Granite

More consistent coloring and patterns
Less maintenance without annual sealing
Doesn’t etch from acidic foods
Wider range of colors and styles
Stains less
Non-porous so less bacteria
Crack/chip resistant

vs Marble

Much harder and more scratch resistant
Stains less
Stays beautiful over years
Doesn’t require polishing
Color and patterns are consistent

vs Laminate

Far more durable and heat/scratch resistant
Won’t peel, bubble or warp
Higher-end luxury aesthetic
Easy to clean
Long-lasting beauty

vs Wood

More water, heat, and stain resistant
Easier to keep sanitary
Less susceptible to damage
Wider range of styles
Doesn’t require oiling/sealing

vs Ceramic Tile

Seamless appearance
Softer, warmer feel
Stains less
Available in wider range of colors
Doesn’t chip or crack
Less grout lines to trap grime

Quartz vs. Quartzite: What’s the Difference?

Quartz and quartzite are two distinct materials that are often confused due to similar names:

Quartz is engineered stone made from ground quartz bound with resin
Quartzite is a naturally occurring metamorphic rock created from sandstone

Similarities

Hard, durable surfaces excellent for counters
Available in a spectrum of colors and patterns
Offer sleek, beautiful aesthetics

Differences

Quartzite is 100% natural, quartz is engineered
Quartzite is mined, quartz is fabricated
Quartzite is more heat tolerant
Quartz requires less maintenance
Quartz has more consistent patterning
Quartzite can develop patina over time
Quartz is less prone to etching and scratching

Both offer attractive options. Choice comes down to priorities – natural stone vs low maintenance, budget, and desired aesthetics.

Caring for Quartz Countertops

Simple care and maintenance will keep quartz counters looking like new for years:

Clean regularly with a mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
Blot spills quickly to prevent staining, especially oils and acidic liquids.
Use cutting boards to protect from deep cuts and scratches.
Avoid excessive pressure from impact or very heavy objects.
Use trivets and hot pads under hot pans, pots, and plates.
Clean spills and stains gently with a non-abrasive cleaner.
Re-seal any seams or cracks that develop over time.
Avoid leaving moisture sitting on counters for extended periods.

Annual professional deep cleaning is recommended to keep counters fresh. Follow your manufacturer’s care guidelines. Overall quartz requires very little maintenance compared to most other natural stone surfaces.

Can You Repair Quartz Countertops?

Minor damage to quartz can often be repaired:

Etching from acidic liquids can be smoothed by a polishing compound or DIY etching repair kits. For deeper etching, professional refinishing may be required.
Scratches and cuts under 1/16” can usually be sanded and polished out professionally. Deeper gouges may result in needing slab replacement.
Burn marks can be reduced by immediate attention and sanding/polishing. Avoid setting hot pots directly on quartz.
Broken corners or chips can be filled in with color-matched filler and re-polished. May still be slightly noticeable.
Cracks need professional repair. Cracks emanating from seams indicate problems with initial installation.
Stains can often be removed with hydrogen peroxide, acetone, or nail polish remover if treated quickly. Rinse immediately.

For best results, hire an experienced professional for repair work. Check if issues are covered under warranty. Some minor damage may be irreparable. Preventative care is key.

Can You Paint Your Quartz Countertops?

Painting over quartz countertops is possible but not ideal. Here’s what you need to know:

Quartz won’t readily accept paint or dye like natural stone or wood. The glossy non-porous surface causes adhesion issues.
For paint to properly stick, the counters must be thoroughly sanded first to strip the polish and create a profile for the paint to bond.
Primers made specifically for laminates, plastics, and metals are required to help the paint adhere. 2-3 coats are needed.
Paint touch ups will be required over time as the paint wears thin in high traffic areas.
Painted quartz loses its glossy sheen and looks more obviously painted versus looking like natural stone.
If not done properly, paint can flake or chip off relatively quickly and look very unsightly.
Painting quartz voids the manufacturer’s warranty. Future cracks or damage may occur.

Many pros recommend against painting quartz counters. Replacing or recovering the counters may be a wiser, longer-lasting investment.

How to Clean Quartz Countertops

Here are professional tips for keeping your quartz sparkling:

Clear counters of appliances, accessories, and debris. Remove food particles.
Mix a mild cleaner like dish soap, white vinegar, or ammonia with warm water in a bucket or spray bottle. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
Use a soft microfiber cloth or sponge to gently wash the counters. Avoid rough scrubbing.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water on a second microfiber cloth to remove soapy residue.
Buff dry any excess moisture with a paper towel to prevent water spots.
For stubborn spots, gently rub with a cleaning eraser like Mr. Clean Magic Eraser.
Disinfect by spraying lightly with rubbing alcohol and wiping down.
Annual professional deep cleaning is recommended using a quartz polish to restore luster.

Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or alkaline cleaners which can damage and dull the finish. Simple mild cleaners and minimal abrasion keeps quartz gleaming.

How to Remove Stains from Quartz Countertops

Several effective techniques can be used to remove stains:

Oil-based stains – Degrease immediately with dish soap, rubbing alcohol, or ammonia. Avoid abrasive scrubbing.

Food stains – Mix baking soda and water into a paste. Gently rub paste over stain in circles. Rinse and dry.

Liquid spills – Blot up quickly and rinse with soapy water. For dried stains, use hydrogen peroxide. Rinse thoroughly.

Hard water spots – Dab white vinegar on spots. Allow to sit 5 minutes. Wipe away and rinse clean.

Dried spills/messes – Carefully scrape off debris with a plastic scraper. Follow with a warm soapy cloth.

Mold/mildew – Mix equal parts bleach and water. Disinfect area and wipe dry. Rinse with clean water.

Ink marks – Gently rub with a cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover.

Etch marks – Rub gently with a DIY quartz etch removal kit or baking soda. Reduce shine. May require refinishing.

For really stubborn stains, seek professional help. Aggressive scrubbing and harsh chemicals can damage the surface. Treat stains ASAP.

Quartz Countertops FAQ

Can you cut on quartz counters?

Yes, quartz is very durable, but cutting directly on the surface will eventually dull knives and leave light scratches over time. Always use a separate cutting board to protect quartz.

Do you need to seal quartz counters?

No, quartz does not need periodic sealing like natural stone. The resin makes quartz non-porous and stain resistant without sealing.

Can quartz counters crack?

Quartz is not crack-proof, but it is highly crack resistant. Cracks are rare under normal conditions. Excessive impact force or improper installation can cause cracks.

How thick should quartz counters be?

The standard thickness is 2cm or just under an inch. 3cm thickness offers extra strength for heavily used sections like kitchen islands. Thinner 1.2cm can be used for vertical surfaces.

How is a quartz backsplash installed?

A matching quartz backsplash is installed at the same time as the countertop. A waterproof adhesive attaches the backsplash to the wall securing it tightly.

Can you polish or refinish quartz?

Yes, an expert technician can carefully sand out and re-polish small scratches, scuffs, and etch marks in quartz. This restores the surface luster and shine.

Does quartz hold up in outdoor kitchens?

Quartz performs excellently outdoors. UV-stable colors resist fading and the durable surface stands up well to weather. Popular for pool areas.

Can you cut quartz on site?

Thinner quartz of 2cm can be cut onsite by installers. Thicker slabs and intricate cut-outs are generally done at the fabrication facility with