What are the Pros and Cons of Quartz Countertops?

Quartz is a manufactured stone, made as a combination of natural quartz, resins and polymers. Quartz has been a very popular material for kitchen and bathroom countertops in recent years because it has a great mix of pros. But, as with any other material, quartz has its cons. Continue reading and find everything about quartz characteristics and decide whether it is the right material for you.

Pros

1. Resistant to staining

Quartz is a non-porous material, which means it doesn’t have microscopic pores in which liquids can collect. This is the reason why quartz countertops are so resistant to staining. This is of great use in the kitchen, where you will have many opportunities from foods and liquids to get on your countertops and leave a stain.

2. Very durable

Quartz is one of the most durable stones found in nature, ranking number 7 on the scale of the hardest stones, 10 being the diamond. Quartz will not break when you accidentally drop something heavier on it. It is very hard and resilient and will therefore last you a long time.

3. Easy to maintain

Quartz has a sleek surface due to resins and it is naturally very easy to clean. The cleaning products will just glide on top of your surfaces without any effort. The cleaning is handled with just soap and water. Just make some soapy water and using a soft cloth, wipe the countertops. Rinse off with a clean damped cloth.

4. Variety of colours

During the manufacturing process, the pigments can be added to quartz to achieve different colours and patterns from marble effect to leather finish. In quartz’s range, you can find a colour that you wouldn’t usually find in nature. The most common patterns are veined and granulated. Quartz can also look like other stones, such as granite or marble while giving improved qualities.

5. Resistant to scratching

Quartz is also highly resistant to scratching and cutting directly on your countertops will not harm it. Just beware that you can dull your knives by cutting directly on it.

Cons

1. Sensitive to chemicals

Cleaners that are highly acidic or alkaline are not suitable for quartz’s cleaning and it is best to use products that are around a neutral PH level. Those cleaners can damage the top layer and lead to discolouration. It is best to use just soap or products specially formulated for quartz stone.

2. It is heavy

With the durability of the product also comes its heaviness. Quartz has densely packed molecules which make the whole structure heavy. Some cabinets may require additional structural support before the installation.

In conclusion, quartz countertops have many pros, but only a few cons and even they can be bypassed with proper use. Quartz is truly a very high quality stone that will last you for decades and will make a great investment.

Having more questions about quartz countertops and their characteristics? Please feel free to contact us and we will be happy to help you.