Whether you’re planning a kitchen remodel or simply want to upgrade your existing countertops, this guide from the Granite Zone team will provide you with the knowledge and insight you need to make an informed decision. Feel free to contact us or arrange a quartz worktop quote today.
The Pros & Cons of Quartz Worktops
Quartz worktops have, in recent years, emerged as one of the most popular kitchen choices for homeowners, designers and architects. Quartz provides a stunning and durable surface that is fast becoming a staple of modern kitchens, and for good reason. In this comprehensive introduction, we will explore everything you need to know about the quartz worktop, from its composition and benefits to maintenance and installation.
What is Quartz?
Quartz is a natural mineral found in abundance within the earth’s crust. It is one of the most common crystallised materials on the planet and, thanks to combining with other natural elements, comes in various forms and colours. Quartz kitchen countertops are created by combining crushing natural quartz material with resins and pigments under high temperatures and pressure. This results in slabs that can be cut into shapes as quartz countertops.
The Pros of Quartz Kitchen Worktops
Quartz worktops offer several advantages that make them an attractive choice for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchens. Firstly, Quartz worktops are incredibly durable and resistant to scratches, stains and heat. This durability makes them suitable for busy, active working kitchens where bumps, spills and accidents are common. Cleaning quartz worktops is a breeze, too.
As well as being easy to maintain and clean, the non-porous nature of quartz makes it highly resistant to bacteria and mould growth. This makes it an excellent choice for food preparation areas where hygiene is a top priority.
Because they are engineered, quartz worktops come in a wide variety of colours and patterns. For example, you may prefer a startling White Shimmer or White Diamond quartz to the more muted Grey Diamond quartz options. The variety of quartz worktop colours available allows homeowners to choose a design that complements their kitchen style. Whether you prefer a classic, contemporary, or eclectic look, there is likely a quartz worktop to suit your taste.
Quartz vs. Granite Worktops
Quartz and granite are both popular choices for kitchen worktops, each offering unique characteristics. Quartz worktops are engineered using a blend of natural quartz crystals and resins. As a result, they provide a far wider range of possibilities for customvers. While durable, granite is porous and requires periodic sealing to prevent staining. Quartz is easy to maintain without staining. Quartz worktop maintenance is generally considered much more straightforward and less time-consuming.
You can read more about the differences between the two in our blog.
The Strength and Resilience of Quartz
Quartz is one of the hardest known minerals on Earth which means that quartz worktops are incredibly strong, resilient and scratch and stain-resistant. They can withstand the daily wear and tear of a busy kitchen without showing signs of ageing. In fact, they’ll keep their looks with only the simplest of cleaning and maintenance routines. Generally, you only need warm soapy water and a non-abrasive cleaning cloth to keep everything looking as good as new.
You can read more about cleaning and caring for a quartz worktop in our blog.
Choosing the Right Quartz Worktop
If you’ve been persuaded that quartz is the right material for you, there are still exciting decisions to be made. The first, and perhaps, most important, is to select a colour and pattern that suits your kitchen colour scheme and your personal style. Whether it be the marvellously named Quartz Carlacatta, for example, Alpine Grey Quartz or the Black Shimmer Fugen Quartz, there are a myriad of options.
Once you’ve settled on a colour and pattern, you need to specify the thickness of the quartz worktop you need. Slabs generally come between 20mm-30mm but can be made to measure. You can also specify the edge profile of your quartz worktop. Common examples include bevelled, bullnose and ogee ends. Again, you have the choice to complement your kitchen’s style.
Finally, Quartz worktops can have different finishes including polished, honed and leathered options. The latter refers to a pebbly, rough textured style that is increasingly popular for its rustic, homely feel. Whatever effect you are looking for, the finish you choose will define the countertop’s appearance and feel. You will have to live with your choice for a while, so it pays to spend some time selecting one that works for your kitchen and suits your aesthetic preferences.
The Cons of Quartz Kitchen Worktops
Quartz kitchen worktops do come with several drawbacks to consider. They can be relatively expensive compared to other materials. Customisation comes at a cost too; the longer the list of your wants and specifications, the more money you’ll have to part with. The good news is that the initial upfront costs will feel less of a challenge to those calculating long-term value. Once you invest in a quartz kitchen worktop you’ll soon notice, over its life-span, that you’ll get your money’s worth.
More affordable quartz worktops may be available if you are willing to compromise a little on the colour and style you choose. It pays to ask if suppliers have less popular or end-of-line varieties. There may be bargains to be had.
While their durability is a plus, they are not entirely immune to heat damage and exposure to high temperatures can lead to discoloration or cracks. It pays to use mats or trivets for your pots, pans or anything straight from the oven. You might use coasters for your morning cup of tea too. Additionally, while quartz is generally resistant to stains, it is not entirely impervious and some highly acidic or abrasive substances can cause damage. It is best not to leave spilt wine or orange juice for too long. Quartz worktops are heavy too, so they may require additional support during installation. Lastly, their synthetic-engineered composition may not appeal to you if you are seeking entirely natural materials for your kitchen design.
Quartz Worktop Installation
Installing quartz kitchen worktops requires careful planning and skilled craftsmanship. As quartz worktop designs are usually made to measure, the precise measurements of your kitchen are crucial to ensure a proper fit when the time comes. The weight of quartz necessitates strong cabinetry and adequate support. Reinforcing the base cabinets is sometimes necessary and you may need a professional’s advice to avoid potential issues from arising.
During installation, seams where different slabs meet need to be carefully aligned and joined, ideally using inconspicuous epoxy resin. Professionals use specialised tools to cut and shape the quartz to fit sinks, appliances and edges precisely too. Making mistakes here could lead to gaps, leaks and dampness affecting your kitchen.
Is a Quartz Worktop Right For You?
The answer to the above question will, of course, depend on your priorities. If you seek durability and easy maintenance, it might be yes. Add a wide array of style options too, and quartz could be an excellent choice for you. The engineered composition of quartz ensures uniform colour and pattern offering a polished contemporary look. Quartz is also resistant to stains, scratches and heat making it ideal for busy kitchens. Ultimately, however, your decision should align with your lifestyle, design preferences and willingness to invest in a versatile and long-lasting kitchen surface. The choice, as they say, is yours.
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