Black quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodels in recent years. Here is a detailed look at the pros, cons, costs, and care for black quartz countertops to help you determine if they are the right choice for your home.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. This mixture is molded into slabs and cured under heat and pressure.
The quartz provides strength and hardness, while the resins bind the material together. The pigments add color and pattern.
Compared to natural stone countertops like granite and marble, quartz is non-porous, stain-resistant, and requires little maintenance. It does not need to be regularly sealed like granite.
The Popularity of Black Quartz
Black quartz counters have seen a surge in popularity in recent years. The rich, dark color provides a dramatic, sophisticated look.
Black quartz works well in modern and contemporary kitchens, adding stylish contrast to stainless steel appliances and white cabinetry. It pairs nicely with accent colors like red or yellow for a bold statement.
The neutral black tone allows flexibility in design. It complements any style, from industrial lofts to traditional homes. Black quartz can be dressed up with gilded fixtures or dressed down with casual wood elements.
Compared to lighter quartz colors, black hides stains, scratches, and smudges better. Its darker tone helps camouflage daily wear and tear. This makes it ideal for busy kitchens.
Pros of Black Quartz Countertops
There are many benefits that contribute to black quartz’s popularity:
Durability
Quartz is one of the most durable countertop materials available. At around 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, it resists scratches, stains, burns, and damage from everyday use.
The resins make quartz more flexible than natural stone, so it is somewhat less prone to chipping or cracking. This durability ensures long-lasting beauty with minimal maintenance required.
Easy Maintenance
Black quartz repels liquids, grease, food stains, and bacteria. Simple soap and water is all that is needed to clean quartz countertops in most cases. No special cleaners or sealants are required.
You do not have to worry about acidic foods like lemons or tomatoes damaging or staining the surface. Black quartz simply wipes clean after use.
Stain and Heat Resistance
The non-porous surface of quartz prevents stains from penetrating the material. Liquids and spills sit on top instead of soaking in.
Quartz also stands up to heat very well. You can place hot pots and pans on it without worry. Though it is best to use trivets to protect the surface and prevent any discoloration over time.
Stylish Aesthetic
Sleek black quartz counters make a bold style statement. The smooth, glossy surface and dark color create a luxurious, high-end look.
There are subtle patterns and flecks in some black quartz that provide visual interest without being overwhelming. Black quartz offers a classy neutral backdrop that works with nearly any design style.
Non-Porous
Unlike porous natural stones, quartz does not need to be sealed periodically. Liquids and debris stay on the surface instead of being absorbed into the material. This saves the added cost and hassle of sealing over time.
Increased Home Value
Upgrading to black quartz countertops will increase your home’s value compared to outdated laminate or tile counters. Quartz is in high demand among buyers right now for its durability, aesthetics, and ease of maintenance.
Cons of Black Quartz Countertops
Despite its many advantages, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider with black quartz:
Expense
Quartz is pricier than options like granite, marble, laminate, concrete, or tile. The average cost of quartz is $80-$150 per square foot installed. Black quartz is on the higher end due to its popularity.
The initial investment is substantial, but quartz will last for decades with proper care. Its longevity provides return on investment over time.
Limited Color Selection
Quartz offers less color variety than materials like granite or laminate. There are a handful of black options from various brands, some with subtle veining or speckles.
If you have your heart set on a lighter neutral or a vivid color splash, quartz may disappoint. But if you love deep, dark hues, black quartz delivers.
No Natural Stone Patterns
While it mimics the look of natural stone, quartz lacks the unique striations, swirls, and distinct markings found in granite, marble, and soapstone.
Each slab has a uniform appearance. For some, this artificial uniformity lacks the aesthetic appeal of natural stone’s random patterns.
Requires Professional Installation
Due to the weight and secure installation methods needed, quartz counters must be installed by a professional. The material is too heavy and unwieldy for DIY installation.
Professional installation adds to the overall project cost. This makes quartz less budget-friendly than DIY-friendly options like butcher block or tile.
Cost of Black Quartz Countertops
Here is a breakdown of what impacts the cost of black quartz countertops:
- Quartz slab – $50-$100 per square foot
- Edge treatments – Basic square edge is included. Decorative ogee, bevel, or bullnose edges add $5-$15 per linear foot.
- Cutouts for sinks – Simple round or square cutouts average $100-$150 each. Complex shapes run $175-$250.
- Backsplash – Full backsplashes typically add $4-$8 per square foot. Partial splashes cost around $2-$4 per square foot.
- Basic installation – Approximately $40-$75 per square foot.
- Premium installation – $100+ per square foot for intricate tile patterns or complex projects.
- Shipping fees – Prices vary based on vendor.
- Taxes
In total, expect to invest $80-$150 per square foot for black quartz countertops installed. Price depends on the brand, pattern, edge profile, cutout complexity, and overall scope. Larger projects tend to cost less per square foot.
Choose a mid-range priced quartz to avoid very high or very low quality. Be sure to get an itemized estimate from your countertop company.
Caring for Black Quartz Countertops
The good news about quartz is that it requires minimal maintenance compared to other countertop materials. Follow these tips to keep black quartz counters looking like new:
- Clean spills promptly to prevent staining. Use a damp microfiber cloth and mild soap if needed.
- For stubborn dried-on messes, use a non-abrasive scrubbing pad. Avoid abrasive cleansers and scouring pads.
- Disinfect quartz regularly with soap and water or disinfecting wipes.
- Avoid excessive pressure and impact that can damage the surface. Use cutting boards and hot pads.
- Re-seal quartz every 1-2 years using a penetrating sealer for extra protection.
- Check manufacturer guidelines before using harsh chemicals like paint removers, oven cleaners, etc.
- Keep quartz away from harsh chemicals like paint removers, oven cleaners, etc. that can damage the resin.
With routine cleaning and care, black quartz countertops will maintain their deep, dramatic beauty for decades. Be sure to gently clean up spills quickly before they have a chance to stain.
FAQs About Black Quartz Countertops
Is black quartz hard to maintain?
No, black quartz is one of the most low-maintenance countertop materials. Simple soap and water cleaning is all it needs to keep its appearance. It does not require regular sealing or polishing like natural stone.
Does black quartz get hot?
Quartz does absorb some heat, especially darker colors like black. Using trivets and hot pads is recommended to prevent any potential heat damage. The material is unlikely to burn you though.
Does black quartz stain easily?
Due to its non-porous nature, liquid and foods create very minimal staining on quartz surfaces. Small stains can be removed with cleaning. But it does not stain as easily as very porous natural stones.
Is black quartz expensive?
Black quartz typically costs $80-$150 per square foot installed. This is pricier than options like laminate but more affordable than premium stones like marble. The longevity of quartz makes it a valuable return on investment.
Does black quartz scratch easily?
Quartz resists scratches better than marble or travertine but not quite as well as granite. Using cutting boards and avoiding metal or sharp objects on the surface will prevent most scratching. Minor scratches can be buffed out by a pro.
Does black quartz need to be sealed?
Sealing is not required for quartz like it is for granite, marble, etc. However, sealing black quartz every 1-2 years can provide added protection against stains and damage.
Conclusion
Black quartz countertops provide a gorgeous, modern look combined with rock-solid durability and easy upkeep. While the initial cost is more than some options, the longevity and low maintenance make quartz a smart investment in the long run.
With routine care, black quartz counters will maintain their luxurious appearance for decades to come. They offer striking sophistication, sleek design, and plenty of practical perks perfect for any home kitchen or bathroom.
Hopefully this detailed overview helps you decide if popular black quartz is the right choice to transform your space! Reach out to quartz fabricators near you to request free samples and quotes for your next remodeling project.