Made by grinding natural quartz into dust and combining it with other natural and synthetic materials including resin, quartz worktops are a durable option that won’t scratch, crack, or chip easily. As a composite, man-made product, quartz countertops have a more uniform colour and pattern than natural stone but still offer the same high-quality finish.
A popular choice for those looking to achieve a premium aesthetic, quartz worktops looks right at home in any modern kitchen. So, if you are considering updating your space with a new work surface, let’s explore the benefits of quartz in more detail.
Pros of Quartz Worktops
Non-porous
Unlike natural stone, quartz worktops are non-porous, which means that liquid cannot penetrate the surface and cause staining or discolouration – including common kitchen culprits like washing up water, wine, and oil. This also means that bacteria can’t make their way into the material, making quartz a good choice for a more hygienic food prep area.
Durable
Quartz worktops are engineered to be extremely durable – even more so than natural stone. Highly resistant to stains and scratches, a quartz countertop is a good choice for a busy kitchen and will last for many years to come with very minimal maintenance.
Choice of colours
As a man-made product, quartz worktops are available in a wide choice of colours and patterns, many of which replicate the natural appeal of real stone. With a consistent appearance across the work surface, quartz counters are great for achieving a refined and polished look.
Easy to clean
The non-porous nature of quartz means stains and bacteria won’t be a problem, which makes everyday cleaning much easier. Warm water and a non-abrasive cleaner should be enough to remove dirt and debris from cooking, speeding up after-dinner chores.
Cons of Quartz Worktops
Susceptible to heat damage
Although natural quartz can withstand high temperatures, the resin it is combined with to produce a quartz worktop is not so heat resistant. Placing a hot pan on the counter can melt the resin, causing discolouration and permanent damage. Fortunately, this can be avoided by using a trivet or worktop saver when serving dishes from the oven.
Can be costly
A quartz worktop is a premium product that can have a higher price tag than more affordable alternatives. However, if you are looking for a stylish work surface that will stand the test of time, quartz makes a smart long term investment and will instantly elevate the interior of your kitchen.
Uniform appearance
The manufacture of quartz countertops means that they have a more uniform appearance than natural stone, with less variation in colour and pattern. Although this looks less organic, it does mean that quartz is better for achieving a solid colour or consistent design throughout a space, which works well in a more luxurious interior.
Are Quartz Worktops Expensive?
Quartz worktops are generally more expensive than low-cost options like laminate, however, the strength and durability of a quartz countertop means it is unlikely to need replacing as frequently. The work surface should also be fitted by someone who has experience working with quartz, which means it isn’t possible to cut costs with a DIY installation.
A quartz work surface might be one of the higher-end items in your kitchen makeover budget, but its long-lasting strength and luxury appearance mean it is sure to be one of your favourite features of the space for many years to come.
Contact Our Quartz Specialists
Granite Supply specialises in supplying and fitting high-quality quartz worktops which our customers love. Call us on 01708 374 121 for a quotation within a day, and once we have agreed on a template, your worktop will be made to measure in just one week and fitted in just two hours. Alternatively, complete our contact form to get in touch.