An In Depth Look At Quartz Countertops
So, you’re considering getting quartz countertops? What should you know about them before taking such a large step? We’re here to help with just that! While quartz countertops are a rather new trend, they have taken over the countertop industry. They are completely replacing granite as the go-to-substance for countertops. However, are they really all that awesome? Because of their beautiful appearance and their durability, many people are saying “YES!” Here is a look at their strengths and weaknesses.
As one of the hardest surfaces on earth, quartz makes an ideal material for kitchen countertops, making it an exceptional match for any lifestyle. It is a manufactured product and can be very attractive in style, aesthetics, and functionality. Because quartz countertops are human-made, there is a much wider range of colors than you’ll find in natural stones such as marble or granite. However, just because it is human-made doesn’t mean that it is more fragile. As a matter of fact, quartz has the same durability as concrete and granite, but it also isn’t as brittle, and therefore it won’t chip or crack as easily!
Like many other hard surface countertop materials, quartz is nonporous so it resists staining much better than granite, marble, or concrete. You won’t have to worry about making those kitchen spills permanent. Nonporous also means that it is a surface that won’t hold bacteria or viruses, especially those that come from food in the first place, such as from raw meats. You can’t beat the comfort and safety of having a nonporous counter in your kitchen.
The greatest thing about quartz countertops is that there really aren’t that many cons to using it! While the price can be a little whelming, ranging anywhere from $75 - $200 per square foot, those who purchase it tend to agree that the engineered stone is well worth the cost, and quartz countertops are competitive, in price, to other high dollar countertop materials.
If you are looking for an antique look, then quartz countertops may not be for you, as they do have a very modern look about them. The biggest concern when dealing with quartz countertops is heat. Quartz is not resistant to heat. Unlike its fellow countertop materials, one must be extra cautious when placing hot pans, pots, or plates on quartz. Using trivets, hot pads, or pot holders under hot dishes is highly recommended if you decide to go with quartz for your countertops.