ARE QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS A NATURAL STONE SLAB COUNTERTOP?
The white or colorless mineral that makes up quartz is entirely natural. Quartz countertops, on the other hand, are classified as man-made products, in contrast to natural stone like marble, granite, and soapstone.
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They are made of natural quartz stone, but to give it more strength and flair, additional elements like colors and resins have been added. Continue reading to find out how it’s created, why it competes with real stone, and what makes it unique from other man-made surfaces.
METHOD OF MAKING QUARTZ
Quartz countertops can have a weight percentage of around 95–95% quartz and 5–7% resin. Using Italian Bretonstone technology, crushed quartz or other natural stone aggregates, such as granite and marble, are combined with a polymer resin mixture to create engineered quartz. The material is purged of air before being heated and formed into a slab. Additions like as glass, mirrors, or ceramics can also be made to give it a unique look.
Color can also be applied during the process to assist create a striking or neutral look for the quartz countertop. One of the main reasons that both designers and homeowners adore man-made quartz is its extensive color selection.
HOW IT COMES FROM STONE
There are several ways in which quartz countertops vary from genuine stone surfaces. Some people enjoy the erratic movements and patterns seen in real stone, but others depend on the constancy that quartz offers. What you see in a sample—whether it the veining, glitter, or coloring—is exactly what will be placed in your kitchen or bathroom. Additionally, you can choose among items that resemble stone, such as marble-looking quartz.
Its resistance to heat, scorching, scratches, stains, and mildew makes glass practically unbreakable. While porous natural stone, such as genuine marble, may absorb spills and splashes, its non-porous surface leaves 99.9 percent of bacteria unaccounted for, making it a considerably healthier option, especially in the kitchen.
Its low maintenance requirements are an additional benefit. Quartz never has to be sealed, whereas natural stone need it every few months or year. Keeping it clean is very easy; all you need is water, dish soap, and a soft sponge for really greasy areas.
DIFFERENCES FROM LAMINATES
Many synthetic worktops—like those created by the well-known business Formica—are composed of plastic laminate, which is formed from paper or fabric combined with resin. Other synthetic countertops are composed of particleboard covered with a layer of laminate craft paper and resin. Conversely, quartz counters are strong, long-lasting surfaces.
These low-cost, artificial materials have the drawback of being less porous than quartz, which makes them more vulnerable to liquid absorption. Furthermore, if they are cut, scraped, dented, or soiled, they cannot be fixed.
Compared to other laminates, quartz has numerous advantages over genuine stone. After learning about quartz’s sturdiness and ease of upkeep, you’ll want to install the engineered stone in your kitchen or bathroom! We are here to assist you if you require direction. To engage in online conversation with our staff, visit a nearby MSI showroom, or get in touch with a local authorized MSI store, please click the button below.
QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS’ BENEFITS
It goes without saying that quartz countertops are a premium option for any homeowner wishing to update the appearance of their kitchen. But we have a refresher if you need it! Here are a few of the main benefits of quartz countertops and the reasons you ought to install them in your kitchen.
Quartz counters are Sturdy: Especially for individuals who enjoy cooking, kitchen counters endure significant wear and tear. Having said that, if you want your countertop to last longer, it should be durable. Because quartz is thick, it cannot be damaged or scratched.
Quartz Worktops Offer Flexibility – Natural stone color schemes are constrained, but quartz countertops may be customized to match your style thanks to the various material combinations that are available! Don’t worry if you’d want a quartzite countertop! They provide a variety of hues and designs.
Quartz worktops are Hygienic: It’s simple to sterilize and clean quartz worktops! In light of the current situation, this is crucial. These countertops are low-porosity and stain-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about them harboring bacteria even after giving them a good cleaning.
QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS’ DEFECTS
Quartz countertops are man-made; therefore, they shouldn’t be your first choice if you’re searching for a countertop composed entirely of natural stone. On the other hand, we provide a large assortment of natural stone countertops that would be ideal for you if you’re searching for natural stone like quartzite!
Quartz countertops are not appropriate for outside use if you’re seeking for a countertop for your newly constructed outdoor barbecue area. When exposed to UV radiation, the resins in most quartz countertops eventually turn yellow and break. If you want to use your quartz countertops outside, please contact your designer for further information since some quartz countertop makers are attempting to employ resin that is UV resistant.