Quartz Countertops: The Pros and Cons
Hey there, kitchen enthusiasts! Let's talk countertops. Specifically, let's talk about quartz countertops. I know, I know, Dekton gets all the love these days. But have you ever stopped to think about quartz? It’s solid, dependable, and always there to make your life a little bit better.
So, if you’re weighing your options for your new countertops, let’s dive into the pros and cons of quartz countertops. Who knows, you might just find your new kitchen best friend. So let’s dive in your 101 quartz countertops buying guide.
The Pros of Quartz Countertops
First off, let's talk about the positives. And believe me, there are plenty.
Durability and Hardness
Quartz countertops are like the Superman of surfaces. They are made from one of the hardest minerals on earth. Scratch-resistant? You betcha. Quartz is engineered to withstand the rigors of daily kitchen life, scoring a whopping 7 on the Mohs hardness scale. That means your countertops can take a beating without showing a scratch – unless you're trying to chop your veggies directly on them, which, by the way, is a terrible idea for both your knives and your countertops. Use a cutting board, people!
Non-Porous Surface
One of the greatest things about quartz countertops is that they are non-porous. What does that mean? Well, unlike granite, quartz doesn’t need to be sealed. Ever. It’s like that friend who never seems to age – always looking good without any effort. The non-porous nature of quartz means it’s highly resistant to stains, making it an excellent choice for kitchens and bathrooms. No more worrying about spilled wine or coffee leaving a permanent mark. Just wipe it off, and you’re good to go.
Consistent Appearance
You know how granite slabs can vary wildly in appearance? Sometimes that’s charming, and sometimes it’s just a hassle. With quartz, what you see is what you get. The patterns and colors are consistent throughout the slab. This means you can achieve a more uniform look, which is great if you're going for a sleek, modern aesthetic. Plus, there’s a wide range of colors and styles to choose from. Whether you want a clean white look or something with a bit more pizazz, quartz has got you covered.
Low Maintenance
If you’re like me, you don’t want to spend your weekends maintaining countertops. You want to be doing more important things, like binge-watching your favorite shows or perfecting your stand-up routine. Quartz countertops are low maintenance. They don’t need to be sealed, and cleaning them is a breeze. Just a little soap and water, and you’re done. No special cleaners, no fuss. It’s almost like they clean themselves. Almost.
Eco-Friendly
And for those of you who are eco-conscious, here’s a bonus point. Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on earth, and many quartz countertops are made with recycled materials. So, you can feel good about your purchase, knowing you’re making a sustainable choice. It’s like giving Mother Nature a high five.
The Cons of Quartz Countertops
Of course, nothing is perfect, not even our dear friend quartz. Here are a few things to keep in mind.
Heat Sensitivity
Quartz is tough, but it has its kryptonite – heat. Unlike natural and sintered stones such as granite and dekton, quartz countertops can be damaged by excessive heat. Placing a hot pan directly on the surface can cause discoloration or even cracking. So, always use trivets or hot pads.
Scratch Sensitivity
While quartz is highly scratch-resistant, it’s not completely scratch-proof. Sharp tools and metals can still leave marks if you’re not careful. So, just like with heat, it’s a good idea to use cutting boards and avoid dragging heavy, sharp objects across the surface.
Price
Now, let's talk money. Quartz countertops are not the cheapest option out there. They are a premium product, and that quality comes with a price tag. However, considering their durability and low maintenance, many people find them to be a worthwhile investment. It’s like buying a really good suit. Sure, it costs more upfront, but it lasts longer and looks great for years.
Weight
Quartz countertops are heavy. Really heavy. This means that the installation process can be tricky and definitely requires professionals. It also means that your cabinets need to be able to support the weight. So, if you’re planning on a DIY kitchen makeover, you might want to think twice about installing quartz countertops yourself.
Limited Outdoor Use
Planning an outdoor kitchen? You might want to consider a different material. Quartz doesn’t hold up well to prolonged exposure to sunlight. The UV rays can cause the colors to fade over time. So, for outdoor spaces, granite or another material might be a better choice.
Should You Buy Quartz?
Absolutely! Quartz countertops offer a fantastic combination of beauty, durability, and low maintenance. They are perfect for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen or bathroom with a high-quality, stylish surface.
If you’re ready to transform your space, Granite au Sommet is the place to go. We manufacture, distribute, install, and repair a variety of countertops, including quartz. Our team of experts is here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services. Still have questions, check out our FAQ.
Contact Us
Whether you're set on quartz or still weighing your options, Granite au Sommet is here to help. Get in touch with us for more information or to schedule a consultation. Your dream kitchen is just a call away!
And there you have it, folks. Quartz countertops – the good, the bad, and the beautiful. Now, go forth and make your kitchen dreams come true!
What Are the Best Alternatives to Marble Countertops?
Marble countertops are a classic, timeless choice for any kitchen or bathroom. With its beauty and durability, it’s no wonder many homeowners opt for marble countertops.
However, marble has its drawbacks due to its porous nature. Fortunately, there are several alternatives to marble countertops that you must consider if you’re looking to update your home décor without sacrificing quality or aesthetic appeal.
Let’s explore the best alternatives to marble countertops.
Ceramic or Porcelain Countertops
Porcelain, ceramic, and marble countertops offer distinct benefits, making them both suitable options for any kitchen or bathroom. However, porcelain and ceramic countertops are easier to maintain and less prone to damage than marble.
Their impermeability stands up to heat, as well as significantly cutting down on bacteria-causing residue. You can choose a marble effect porcelaine/Dekton if you still want that marbling aesthetic for your kitchen countertop.
Engineered Quartz Countertops
Engineered quartz is one of the most popular alternatives to marble countertops, as it offers both beauty and durability in one package. Quartz is a composite material made up of natural quartz combined with resins and pigments, giving it an array of colors and styles from which to choose.
Because engineered quartz is non-porous, it does not require sealing like natural stone, making it more resistant to staining than marble. Additionally, quartz is much more durable than traditional stone materials like granite or marble and requires very little maintenance.
Granite Countertops
Granite is another option for those who want the look of natural stone but with better durability. Granite also comes in a variety of colors and styles, so you can easily find something that fits your aesthetic tastes while still providing improved durability over marble countertops.
Granite is known for its eye-catching natural beauty, making it a great option for any kitchen design project. It's also relatively heat-resistant, so you don't have to worry about hot pots and pans damaging your counters like you would with other materials, such as laminates or even other types of tiles.
Finding the Right Tiles for Your Kitchen Countertops
No matter what style or material you choose for your kitchen counters, there are plenty of alternatives for those looking for something different from traditional marble countertops. Make sure to pick the right tile for your backsplash. Do not pick a tile marble-imitation for your mosaic.
Engineered quartz offers an unbeatable combination of beauty and durability, while granite allows you to get all the benefits of natural stone without having to worry about staining or maintenance issues.
Whatever material you decide on will depend on your preference. It’s always best to research each one carefully before committing.
Contact us today for further assistance.
Sources:
What Are the Best Alternatives to Marble Countertops? (accentcountertops.com)
What are Some Alternatives to Marble Countertops? | Lesher Marble
Porcelain vs. Marble Countertops | Westchester, NY & Bethel, CT (academy-marble.com)
5 Interesting Things About Quartz Countertops
Some homes look great with natural stone countertops like granite or marble, while others achieve a more modern look with quartz. If you're considering switching to quartz countertops in your kitchen or bathroom, you should know a few things about this increasingly popular material.
1. Quartz Countertops Aren't 100% Natural Stone
Quartz countertops are made of ground quartz, which is a natural stone, but the countertops themselves are not 100% natural stone. It is a combination of resins and pigments to create the finished product.
But don't let that fool you. While it may not be pure natural stone, quartz countertops still have the durability and style most homeowners look for.
2. Quartz Countertops Are Super Easy to Clean
For most countertop materials, you must be careful about what cleaners you use and how you clean them. But you don’t have to worry so much about this with quartz countertops—they are one of the easiest materials to keep clean.
All you need is the right cleaner and a soft cloth on quartz, and you won't have to worry about damaging the surface. There's no sealing required, either, so you can save time and effort in the long run.
And because quartz is nonporous, it's resistant to stains and bacteria. So, if you're looking for a low-maintenance countertop that's easy to keep clean, quartz is a great option.
3. Quartz Countertops Are Scratch-resistant
In addition to being easy to clean, quartz countertops are also scratch-resistant. So, if you're worried about your counters getting scratched up from daily use, quartz is an excellent choice. Plus, even if you do happen to scratch your quartz countertop, the damage will be very minimal.
Quartz countertops can stand up to daily wear and tear, so you don't have to worry about being too careful with them.
4. Quartz Is an Environmentally Friendly Countertop Choice
Quartz is a sustainable material that doesn't need much energy to produce. And because it's so durable, it lasts a long time without needing replacement.
Plus, because quartz doesn't need sealing like other natural stone countertops, it doesn’t require toxic chemicals for maintenance. So, you can feel good about your countertop choice without sacrificing style or function.
5. You Have a Lot of Style Options With Quartz
Quartz comes in various colors and styles, so you can find an option that fits your home's design. Whether you want something classic or bold, a quartz countertop is perfect for your kitchen or bathroom.
These days, there are quartz countertops that resemble other materials, like marble or granite. So, if you love the look of natural stone but want quartz's durability and easy maintenance, quartz countertops are the way to go.
Quartz Countertops: Where Durability Meets Style
Quartz is an excellent countertop material that's beautiful, durable, and easy to care for. And here at Granite Au Sommet, we offer a wide selection of quartz countertops so that you can find the perfect pattern and style for your home. Contact us today to learn more about our quartz countertops or to schedule a consultation.
Color Suggestions for Quartz Kitchen Countertops
Quartz is the number one choice for kitchen countertops – and here’s why: the nonporous surface of quartz makes it resistant to stains and it’s easy to keep clean and maintain. Because it’s carefully manufactured and engineered, quartz is available in a huge variety of styles and colors. What you see when choosing quartz for your countertops is exactly the pattern that your countertop is going to be.
Color Suggestions for Quartz Kitchen Countertops
Quartz is the number one choice for kitchen countertops – and here’s why: the nonporous surface of quartz makes it resistant to stains and it’s easy to keep clean and maintain. Because it’s carefully manufactured and engineered, quartz is available in a huge variety of styles and colors. What you see when choosing quartz for your countertops is exactly the pattern that your countertop is going to be.
With so many options, finding the right quartz for your kitchen can be overwhelming. The versatility of so many different colors and patterns lets you create a unique look for your kitchen that’s really one of a kind. Here are some of the top color suggestions for quartz kitchen countertops:
Soft Veined Off-White Quartz
Always one of the leading choices for countertop finishes is off-white quartz that’s softly veined or flecked. This color option is good for smaller kitchens and has a natural liveliness and richness that works well when you’re looking for a fresh and contemporary style. The flecks and veins in off-white quartz are a better option than a true white countertop that can sometimes be too harsh and severe in a room that should be warm and inviting. Off-white always gives a room that feeling of sophistication, blending well with both light and dark cabinetry. Other benefits for choosing soft white quartz is that it doesn’t show every mote of dirt and dust.
Dark Quartz
Dark and black quartz countertops are ideal if you have dark floors, dark cabinetry, and other finishes that are rich and dark. A dark countertop needs a lot of lighting to give it a sophisticated look – either natural lighting from windows or ample lighting from fixtures. If you’re looking for a softer look, choose a dark gray or medium charcoal over a pure black.
The deep richness of a dark quartz countertop brings out the subtle and warm colors of wooden kitchen cupboards, allowing you to choose other understated colors for tile backsplash or kitchen flooring. Another reason to choose dark quartz for countertops is if you have other dark or black elements in the kitchen and you want to connect the entire look together, such as if you have black appliances.
One thing to keep in mind when choosing dark quartz for countertops is that the dark and homogenous color of very dark grey and pure black are more difficult to maintain. These deep colors can show oil marks and fingerprints that are hard to get rid of. A dark granite will always look cleaner than dark quartz because of this deepness in color.
Bold Veined Quartz
A new trend for 2019 is to choose quartz that has big, bold veins. In this case your countertop is usually the focal point of your kitchen, so there will be fewer daring colors used elsewhere.
Choose quartz that has unique veins and pair them with dark, vibrant cabinets. For example, a light gray quartz with bold charcoal veins looks exceptional with dark brown or black cabinets, adding a lot of lively atmosphere to the kitchen.
Blue-Gray Veined Quartz
Don’t forget white quartz that has the striking addition of blue-gray veins. The final finish is much like an elegant marble, turning your kitchen into a bright, cozy room. Blue-gray quartz goes well with warm brown or cream colored cabinets.
Are you still feeling overwhelmed about choosing the right color of quartz countertop for your kitchen? Consult with professionals such as Granite Au Sommet who know what quartz is all about and who can advise you on the best choices for your renovation or new kitchen.