Quartz Countertops

Quartz Countertops

© Cambria

Unlike marble and granite which are entirely natural stones, countertops made of quartz are part natural and part man made. Quartz, sometimes referred to as "engineered stone" is comprised of 90% to 95% natural quartz crystals. Ground crystals are combined with polymer resins as a binding agent. Quartz has a similar appearance as granite but is even harder. In fact, only diamonds, topaz and sapphires are harder on the hardness scale.

Like marble and granite, quartz countertops are brilliantly beautiful and add an upscale elegant design enhancement to any kitchen or bathroom. Quartz engineered stone comes in a wide selection of colors, hues and patterns. It is more diverse than granite, more durable, more scratch resistant, and heat resistant than granite or marble. Quartz is also non-porous so it will not absorb moisture or harmful bacteria.

Since Quartz is non-porous, it does not have to be sealed to sustain its luster and brilliance. It is safer than either marble or granite because it will not permit bacteria to penetrate its surface. Unlike marble, quartz is more resistant to heat and scorching. However, mats and hotpads are still recommended. At a comparable cost to both marble and granite, the advantages of a quartz countertop makes it ideal for kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanity counter tops.

Fabrication and Installation.

Fabricating and installing quartz engineered stone countertops is not a recommended do-it-yourself project. Quartz is twice as hard as granite and is heavier, but is easier to cut and handle. Typically there will be less wastage from accidentally broken slabs. Since quartz is a manufactured stone, colors and patterns are consistent The uniformity helps hide visible seams that are more inherent with both granite and marble.

Base cabinets must be installed and the exact size of sinks and faucets must be known before fabrication and installation of quartz countertops. Cutouts and hole drilling must be accurate. Your cabinet maker should know that you plan on adding quartz tops since the weight of quartz requires additional support strength. Your countertop contractor should assist with planning advice. An interior designer that specializes in kitchens and bathrooms can be of great help, not only from a design standpoint but can expose upsides and downsides that must be considered before making a final countertop decision.

Quartz Stone Maunfacturers.

The following manufacturers make variations of engineered quartz stone and create a wide selection of colors and patterns that are unique to each company. Visit their respective websites for more information and a list of outlets and installers in your geographic locations. Click her for a list of Greater Phoenix area installers and fabricators of quartz countertops.

• Cambria
• Caesarstone
• Dupont Zodiaq
• Silestone Quartz