Quartz countertops have been in use for a while now and they are known for their hardness, resistance to wear, durability, easy maintenance, and even design. But before considering using them in your kitchen, bathroom or floor what should you know about them?
Firstly, they are natural
It is engineered and 100 percent of it is quartz. It also contains a combination of polymer, resins and so much more. When these are combined, it gives it a look of marble. Due to the fact that quartz countertops are said to be produced with both stone and/or resin, this makes the surface comes out hard, making it similar to granite but non-porous and glossy.
The Pattern
Also, the pattern is important. Patterns that emerge from the mixtures rely heavily upon the quality the stone possesses which is involved in the making. Although rough pieces of products will give the flecked look, while smoother pieces give a more uniformed look. Colors of different variations can be accomplished by the addition of pigment during manufacturing. Though many people would go for a more neutral look, others prefer vibrant coolers usually not seen in nature.
Thirdly the cost
The price of quartz differs based on the standard and the particular type which you decide to go for. You would usually get it for about $30 per foot. It is vital that you choose a price which is balanced. This means that it is not too expensive and it is not too cheap. When compared with granite, you are more likely to find it more affordable. However, laminates and solid surfaces are on the low side when compared with quartz. The total price usually depends on different factors such as how thick the slab is, the type of material used, the texture of the stone and the design.
Quartz and Granite
While quartz and granite are both hard, granite is totally natural, unlike quartz which is engineered. While the components such as resins or polymers used it to make quartz makes it non-porous and stain resistant, Granite is totally natural which makes it porous which would lead to leaks and stains when not sealed properly. Also while Quartz is resistant to scratch or chip because the materials used to make it such as polymers, resins make it more flexible than natural stones usually are. In granite, the resin isn’t engineered counters, therefore, it is not resistant to heat, so you cannot put your hot pots from the cooker to the top of the counter as you might be able to with granite. They are both hard materials but granite is more likely to chip when a weighty object is dropped on it with force. They are both thought to be green due to very minimal carbon emissions when manufacturing is occurring but granite remains 100 percent natural and environmentally friendly.
And lastly, maintenance. Quartz countertop is relatively easy to maintain. What you need is mostly a light liquid soap and a washcloth. Avoid cutting directly on top of the surface, clean immediately after the spill, avoid using abrasive cleaner since it may wear out the resins used in the manufacturing, use a plastic scraper to remove dried food or sticky residues.
Knowing all of these you are good to go get a new quartz countertop!
