Quartz Countertops: A Comprehensive Guide
What Are Quartz Countertops?
Quartz countertops are engineered stone surfaces made from a blend of crushed quartz particles and resins. This combination gives quartz countertops the durability and appearance of natural stone, but with added benefits like non-porosity and scratch resistance.
Composition of Quartz Countertops
Contrary to their name, quartz countertops do not contain solid quartz extracted from quarries. Instead, they are composed of approximately 90% crushed granite, marble, or other natural stones, along with recycled materials like ceramic, silica, glass, and mirrors. The remaining 10% is a polymeric or cement-based binder that holds the mixture together.
Bretonstone Technology: The Foundation of Quartz Countertops
Bretonstone Technology, a patented process developed by Breton, is the foundation of all quartz countertops. This process involves blending pulverized natural stone with polymers, removing air, and then heating and shaping the material into slabs that mimic the hardness and appearance of natural stone.
Durability and Maintenance of Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are renowned for their durability. Their nonporous nature eliminates the need for sealing, making them resistant to water stains and bacteria. Additionally, quartz is highly scratch-resistant, although extreme pressure can cause damage. Light scratches can be buffed out with polish, while deeper scratches can be repaired using an epoxy filler.
Quartz vs. Granite: A Comparison of Key Features
For years, quartz and granite have been popular countertop choices. While both offer durability, there are some key differences:
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Maintenance: Quartz is easier to maintain, as it doesn’t require sealing or special cleaning products.
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Porosity: Quartz is nonporous, while granite is porous and requires sealing to prevent stains.
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Scratch Resistance: Quartz is more scratch-resistant than granite.
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Durability: Quartz is generally more durable and less prone to chipping or cracking than granite.
Cost of Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops typically cost between $50 and $150 per square foot, making them generally cheaper than granite and marble but more expensive than laminate or butcher block. Grade-specific prices vary as follows:
- Low-quality quartz: $50 to $65 per square foot
- Mid-quality quartz: $65 to $75 per square foot
- High-quality quartz: $75 to $150 per square foot
Factors like edge treatments, sink installation, and plumbing add-ons can further increase the cost.
Cleaning and Care of Quartz Countertops
Cleaning quartz countertops is a breeze. Regular wiping with a soft cloth and warm water is sufficient for most messes. Tougher stains can be removed with a mild dish soap or a cleaning spray specifically designed for quartz surfaces.
Common Questions About Quartz Countertops
Are there any drawbacks to quartz countertops?
While highly durable, quartz countertops can be difficult to install and may have visible seams. They are also less heat-resistant than natural stone due to the resins used in their composition.
What is the difference between quartz and quartzite countertops?
Quartz is manufactured, while quartzite is a natural stone. Quartzite resembles marble or granite and is typically more expensive than quartz.
What are the best brands for quartz countertops?
Top quartz countertop brands include Cambria, Caesarstone, and Silestone, offering a wide range of colors, textures, and thicknesses.
How much does it cost to install quartz countertops?
Installation costs range from $1,500 to $12,000, depending on the project size, customizations, and labor costs.
