The typical consumer is not geologist. Hearing the term “quartz,” they may remember high school geology, but they are unsure of precisely what their countertop is composed of. You may want to know if artificial quartz countertops are composed of real or synthetic stone, even though you might not want to know the precise makeup of such counters.
Quartz counters are synthetic, but that doesn’t mean real stone isn’t used in them. Should you find yourself perplexed, relax. Here is everything you should know about quartz counters and if they will fit your kitchen.
Composition and Appearance
Made from quartz chips or quartz dust bound with resin, man-made quartz countertops are Usually, the makeup is 5-10% resin and 90– 95% quartz. The mottled, speckled appearance of chip-based quartz counters reflects the individual stones floating in the resin. Because the resin can be colored any color and the quartz chips may be whatever color you like, color choices are almost infinite.
Conversely, counters constructed from quartz powder have more consistent look—more like slate or sandstone—because there are no obvious grains or individual stones. Quartz is ground so finely, hence the resin used to paint the countertop may be dyed practically any hue, so the general look and color will be quite consistent and will not fluctuate significantly.
Countertops Made with Quartzites
Slabs derived from actual genuine quartzite make up quartzite counters. Originally sandstone high in quartz, quartzite is a metamorphic rock. Quartzite countertops are very robust and strong as the material recrystallized and the quartz particles were reassembled into a highly strong interlocking structure during protracted times of high temperature, pressure, and metamorphism.
Though they typically show rich hues and marble-like patterns, quartzite countertops, being a natural stone, offer less color possibilities than artificial quartz countertops. Quartzite counters are charming in part because they appear elegantly like marble but are more durable than marble. Typically white, gray, red, yellow, pink, and even blue quartzite counters are seen. Furthermore, because every piece of natural stone is different and no two pieces of quartz are precisely like one another, your countertop is not just a useful work of furniture but also a one-of- a-kind piece of art.
Advantages of Quartz Countertops
Durability
Quartz counters are robust; kitchen counters, particularly for individuals who like cooking, will see a lot of use. Quartz is thick and scratch-resistant among other harm. Your countertop will therefore be able to resist regular usage and keep its attractiveness for a long period.
Variability
While natural stone has restricted color schemes, you may construct a quartz countertop that complements your style by combining various materials mixes! Not to worry if you want quartzite countertops! They have a range of hues and designs.
Hygiene
Hygiene of Quartz Countertops: Quartz counters are easily cleaned and sterilizable Given the state of the environment now, this is rather vital. These low-porosity counters resist stains, hence you shouldn’t worry about them absorbing germs after a good clean.
Will artificial quartz counters fade?
Usually very resistant to heat, stains and aging, artificial quartz countertops will not fade or change color readily. Though such changes are often minor and not readily apparent to the unaided eye, color changes may occur if the surface of the quartz countertop is subjected to bright sunlight or long-term severe circumstances.
Using mild neutral detergues for daily cleaning, cleaning stains in time, avoiding the use of strong acid and alkali detergues, and using insulation pads when placing high-temperature items is advised to help to maintain the beauty and performance of artificial quartz countertops. Apart from that, consistent waxing may assist the countertop stay glossy and improve its anti-stain and scratch resistance. A specific stone polish can help to restore small scratches or damage on the countertop.
Cost
The cost of artificial quartz countertops may surprise you as it is not always less than that of genuine quartzite. Though it is man-made, its production technique is complicated and the material quality is great, so the price is not significantly different from natural quartzite. Designed quartz countertops, which resemble quartzite surfaces, cost around $60 to $100 per square foot for counters devoid of complex patterns. Designed with more complex elements, engineered quartz countertops might offer a pricing advantage because of their simplicity of production. Still, the material choice, personalizing needs, and installation problems will determine the ultimate cost.
Conversely, particularly those with a texture and color like marble, quartzite often costs somewhat more than granite. Still, designed quartz counters may provide a marble-like look without the labor-intensive upkeep problems of actual marble. Therefore, investing in artificial quartz countertops is really worth thinking about if you want a more basic upkeep yet like the visual impact of marble.
Maintenance Advice Guide
Highly durable and will keep your house looking great for years to come are artificial quartz countertops. Every material has benefits and drawbacks that should be taken into account along with your kitchen lifestyle and job. Durable, simple to cook and party in, and resistant to a lot of foot activity engineered quartz countertops are Like other man-made materials, you only need to keep it clean and maintained periodically to keep it looking nice; be cautious not to drop anything heavy on it to avoid chipping or breaking. Though they need less care and are very durable, artificial quartz countertops are more prone to damage from heat, natural light, and certain oils.
Final Thoughts
Are artificial quartz countertops in your house? Tell us about your decision. Not only are artificial quartz countertops aesthetically pleasing, but their adaptability and strength make them a wonderful fit for contemporary kitchens. Man-made quartz counters are a terrific option whether your kitchen needs some elegance or you like cooking.
