8 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Quartz Countertops

If you’re looking to have quartz countertops whether for personal or commercial purposes, then you can be sure that so are countless engineered stone enthusiasts. Quartz countertops have been gaining ground over the years and today have an unwavering spot in most homes. This is largely due to its flexible design options, durability, and very negligible maintenance demands.

As a quartz stone enthusiast, chances are you’ll think you already know everything there is to know about the stone. But that’s not true. There are some surprising things you probably don't know about these countertops and this article will cover those.

Lower-priced isn't always right

From a budget viewpoint, going for the cheaper option is a way that seems right. But trust it is only a fast path to incurring more expenses in the long term. The prices of quartz are determined by the square foot, so if you’re getting a lower price for the same cost per square foot, chances are you will be getting a compromised product. This compromise might include throwing in more resin at the expense of actual quartz. This can eventually lead to a thinner and less durable slab which will also affect the overall coloration.

Quartz doesn't cost less than natural stone

One popular misconception is quartz is a budget-friendly choice compared to natural stones. However, this high-performing and durable surface are far from being that. The cost per square foot for your quartz countertop is very close to that of the average natural stone. Of course, we almost you can easily fabricate it while enjoying the benefits of every one of these natural stones. So, its looks and benefits make it hold its grounds as well as a high-end material for your countertops. The only difference in costs is in the long-term consideration since quartz has lesser maintenance cost requirements and you might need to replace it for a very extended period. As you’ve probably guessed, that could not be said about the natural stone alternatives.

Quartz wasn’t initially meant to be a countertop material

Marcello Toncelli was the person who created this innovative countertop material. But did you know that this engineered stone was not used as a countertop initially? Its use was limited to floor tiles. However, as technology advanced and the need for better countertop materials reached an all-time high, the first quartz slab tailored for countertops came into the picture in the 1970s. Initially, the slabs were 12 x 20 inches, which limited their use to floor tiles. But moving forward, bigger options of 50 inches were created and it's been history since then.

As a countertop material, quartz is accompanied by a truckload of benefits that you don't want to miss. The durability, stain resistance, scratch, and heat resistance, coupled with very effective anti microbial properties are some reasons the material keeps gaining ground. It is very easy to maintain as well and you won't ever need to seal it as you'll normally do for natural stones.

A direct alternative to marble

Quartz has quite a reputation for mimicking quite many countertop styles and materials. However, when it comes to replicating the looks of marble, it does exceptionally sell. It is also very much superior to natural and granite marble for several reasons, making it the reliable choice for a number of kitchen backgrounds, veining, etc. You’ll also get the exact pattern, design, and color you want for your kitchen, giving you an easier path for theme consistency.

Quartz is the best-selling choice for a countertop

A 2013 consumer report deemed Quartz as the number 1 surface for kitchen countertops. Of course, this is nearly a decade ago. However, several other reports have, since then, indicating the surging popularity of the material. Almost every industrial, commercial, residential, and corporate setting now incorporates innovative nature into its designs. Quartz can look like anything as well. Hence, this flexibility makes it the perfect choice for hearths, backsplashes, and several surface features, making it quite appealing.

Quartz stone slabs are engineered

Quartz is one of the most common minerals on earth. And needless to say, a quartz countertop contains largely quartz. But one interesting fact is that the quartz is not produced via mining as obtainable in several other natural stones. As opposed to that, quartz is combined with other mineral fillers and stone aggregates, which account for 9/10 of the entire surface. The other fraction primarily comprises polymeric or Yemen-based binders.

 These are the materials that will help bind the mixtures and convert them into solid slabs. Then, we throw in some pigments to achieve the desired color. Hardening additives are also thrown into the mix to reinforce its durability. Lastly, antimicrobial agents are included to shield the countertop surface from potential bacterial buildups.

Quartz is not the shorter name for quartzite

You’ve probably seen several people using these names interchangeably. That is very wrong. Quartzite is different from quartz. Essentially, it is a metamorphic rock gotten via mining. Although it is also a very durable, elegant, and glazing stone for countertops, it offers these at the cost of outrageous demand requirements – you need to reseal the material every other year. On the flip side, Quartz is an engineered or manufactured stone, created by mixing actual quartz with several other man-made components. As mentioned before, it has very little to no maintenance demands. When it comes to quartz color options, you’re also spoilt for choice and hues. You can get everything from bold to neutral hues. However, quartzites are only available in more neural and subtle hues.

Sealants are unnecessary when it comes to quartz

As opposed to what you’ll typically get in most natural stones, Quartz is naturally impermeable and as such, you might never need to seal it. Also, the manufacturing process involves considerable heat and pressure, which further compacts the mixture of quartz with the other materials. Hence, nothing can penetrate your countertop.

Professional quartz slab manufacturer

If you are looking for advice on quartz countertops, our team is always ready to help. Please do not hesitate to contact us at  sales@vivaquartzstone.com.