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Quartz countertops have become some of the most popular surfaces in today’s market. Many homeowners choose the material as an alternative to natural stone surfaces, such as granite countertops. Whether it is a new kitchen countertop, backsplash or other home surface, quartz is one of the best materials you can choose. This guide will help you learn what quartz countertops are made of and why they are among the best options for countertop materials.
What is Quartz?
Quartz itself is one of the most abundant minerals found in the earth’s crust. It is extracted from quarries worldwide to make quartz countertops.
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How Are Quartz Countertops Made?
Unlike granite, marble and other natural stone countertops, quartz countertops are made of engineered stone. To make the countertops, roughly 90 percent ground quartz is blended with about 10 percent resins, pigments and various compounds to form quartz slabs. After the slabs are cured in a kiln, the desired finish is applied. The exact percentages that make up a quartz countertop will differ slightly depending on different brands (Caesarstone, Silestone, Cambria, etc.). Since these slabs are engineered, quartz countertops are non-porous, meaning they will not require the sealing that natural stone surfaces do.
Why Are Quartz Countertops a Good Option for the Home?
There are many great reasons that homeowners choose quartz countertops for their spaces. Some of these numerous reasons are explained in further detail below.
Many Color Options to Choose From
Since the material is engineered, you can find quartz countertops in practically every color and style you can imagine. You can choose from more traditional tones like white or black, or surfaces that are on the bolder side, such as red and blue.
There are also many types of quartz countertops that have been made to resemble the appearance of natural stone countertops, like granite and marble. The ability to have a surface that looks like natural stone, combined with the factors explained below, make quartz a very appealing choice.
Durable
Quartz is one of the most durable countertop materials you will be able to find. If you take proper care of the surface, it will last in great shape for years on end – likely more years than you will live in your current house.
Low Maintenance
Another benefit of quartz countertops is that the surfaces are among the easiest materials to care for. All you will really need to do is keep up on cleaning the countertops, which will not require any significant effort. As mentioned above, the surfaces do not need to be sealed.
When caring for your quartz countertops, make sure to not expose the material to excessive levels of heat. High temperatures are one of the only things that can damage a quartz countertop. For example, if you take hot pots and pans off the stove and set them directly on your quartz countertop, the resin will begin to melt, resulting in a permanent burn mark. This can also happen in the bathroom with hot hair tools. Always use trivets and hot pads to avoid this kind of damage.
Other things you should avoid exposing your quartz countertops to include excessive pressure, harsh cleaners and knives. While quartz countertops are resistant to scratches, it is never a good idea to cut directly on any countertop.
How Much Do Quartz Countertops Cost?
Quartz countertops can be found in a broad price range. Depending on various factors, some slabs are comparable to the price of granite, while others may be priced beyond your budget. Some factors that can impact price include how rare the type of quartz is, how much of the material you require for your remodel, how many cutouts and angles you need and more.
In general, you can find quartz countertops for around $50 to $120 per square foot.
How Does the Price of Quartz Countertops Compare to Other Options?
The table below compares the average price of quartz countertops to the average prices of several other high-quality countertop options.
| Granite | Between $32 to $75 per square foot |
| Marble | Between $40 to $100 per square foot |
| Quartz | Between $50 to $120 per square foot |
| Slate | Between $50 to $200 per square foot |
| Soapstone | Between $55 to $100 per square foot |
| Quartzite | Between $60 to $120 per square foot |
| Limestone | Between $70 to $200 per square foot |
| Onyx | Between $75 to $250 per square foot |
| Gemstone | Start around $100 per square foot |
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How Does Quartz Compare to Other Non-Natural Stone Options?
Countertop options like solid surface and laminate are relatively popular. However, while both of these materials are also not made of natural stone, if you do not choose a natural stone countertop for your home, quartz will be the best choice. Quartz is much more durable and tougher than these two materials and has a superior appearance as well.
Although the surfaces are not made of natural stone, this does not mean that quartz countertops are a low-quality product by any means. In fact, these surfaces are some of the best countertops you can install in your home. Between the beauty, durability and many other benefits you will receive, quartz countertops are a great decision.
From natural quartz found in the earth’s surface to the blending process and creation of slabs, your quartz countertop takes quite the journey before ending up in your home. This guide provides insight on how the surfaces are made as well as various other helpful things you should know about quartz countertops.
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