Quartz countertops are made from engineered stone, while quarry tile is a type of natural stone tile. Despite some superficial similarities, quartz and quarry tile are quite different materials with distinct manufacturing processes and applications.
An Overview of Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone countertops, are made from crushed quartz combined with resins and pigments. The exact ratio varies by manufacturer, but high-quality quartz slabs contain over 90% ground natural quartz aggregate.
The production process starts with raw quartz crystals mined from the earth. These crystals are washed, crushed into a fine gravel, and blended with pigments and binding resins. The material is then compacted into slabs under intense vibration and pressure. The slabs are molded, cured, polished and prepared for installation.
Pros of quartz countertops:
- Extremely durable and scratch-resistant surface
- Available in a wide range of colors and patterns
- Non-porous so resistant to stains
- Requires little maintenance
- Heat and scorch resistant
Cons:
- Not as heat, stain or scratch resistant as natural stone
- Visible seams after installation
- Limited ability to repair damage
Quartz provides an attractive, low-maintenance and durable surface for kitchen counters, bathrooms, table tops and other applications. Leading quartz brands include Silestone, Caesarstone, Cambria, and Vicostone.
What is Quarry Tile?
Quarry tile is made from natural stone extracted from quarries, usually granite, marble, limestone or sandstone. Slabs are cut from massive stone deposits in the earth. The slabs are processed into various sizes of tiles, which are calibrated for thickness and squareness.
The tiles are more porous than quartz. They are often sealed to reduce staining andAbsorption. Quarry tile comes in a range of natural stone colors and finishes like tumbled, honed or polished.
Pros:
- Made from 100% natural stone
- Available in many natural colors/finishes
- Can be used indoors or outdoors
- Provides a classic, timeless look
Cons:
- Porous and requires sealing
- Not as scratch resistant as quartz
- Natural stone can stain, etch and crack
- Challenging installation and grout maintenance
Quarry tile is used for floors, walls, countertops, backsplashes and patios. It provides a genuine stone look and feel, but requires more maintenance than quartz.
Key Differences Between Quartz and Quarry Tile
There are several notable differences between quartz countertops and quarry tile:
- Composition – Quartz is engineered from crushed stone bound with resin. Quarry tile is cut from natural stone slabs.
- Porosity – Quartz is non-porous. Quarry tile is porous and requires sealing.
- Appearance – Quartz has a uniform appearance. Quarry tile has natural variations.
- Durability – Quartz is harder and more scratch resistant. Quarry tile can chip, crack or stain.
- Maintenance – Quartz requires very little maintenance. Quarry tile needs periodic sealing and cleaning.
- Uses – Quartz is used primarily for countertops. Quarry tile can be used for floors, walls, countertops, etc.
- Cost – Quartz is generally more expensive than quarry tile.
In summary, while quartz countertops and quarry tiles are both natural stone products used for home surfaces, their composition, characteristics, care and maintenance requirements are quite different. So quartz countertops are not made from quarry tile.
Are Quartz Countertops Made From Quarry Tile? The Bottom Line
Quartz countertops provide a high-performance, low-maintenance surface made from crushed quartz and resin. Quarry tile is cut from natural stone into tiles for a variety of applications. While both offer the look and feel of stone, quartz and quarry tile have distinct manufacturing processes, porosities, uses and care requirements.
Quartz counters are factory made from quartz aggregates under intense heat and pressure. Quarry tiles are simply cut from natural stone slabs into finished sizes. So quartz countertops definitely are not made from quarry tile.
However, both quartz and quarry tile can deliver the beauty of natural stone with different benefits. Quartz requires little upkeep while quarry tile provides authentic, old-world charm. Your choice comes down to your design goals, budget and maintenance preferences. Consult with experienced kitchen and bath professionals to select the best option for your next project.
Frequently Asked Questions About Quartz Countertops and Quarry Tile
Are quartz countertops and quarry tile both natural stones?
Quartz countertops contain over 90% crushed natural quartz, while quarry tile is 100% natural stone. However, quartz undergoes extensive manufacturing with resins while quarry tile does not.
Can you use quarry tile for countertops?
Quarry tile can be installed for countertops but requires extensive sealing and maintenance compared to quartz or other countertop materials.
What is quartz made of?
Quartz slabs are made from crushed quartz blended with pigments and resin, compacted into slabs under extreme pressure.
Is quartz more durable than quarry tile?
Yes, quartz is harder and more scratch resistant than natural stone tiles like quarry tile. Quartz is less prone to chipping, cracking or staining as well.
Does quarry tile need to be sealed?
Yes, quarry tile is porous and will require periodic sealing to prevent staining, moisture absorption and inhibit bacteria growth.
Is quartz cheaper than quarry tile?
Quartz countertops are generally more expensive than quarry tile on a per square foot basis due to the manufacturing process.
Can quartz countertops crack?
Although less prone than natural stone, quartz can crack under extreme heat or impact. Cracks are difficult to repair seamlessly.
Does quartz stain easily?
No, quartz is non-porous and resistant to stains. However, prolonged exposure to certain materials can cause staining.
What’s better for kitchen countertops, quartz or quarry tile?
Quartz is better for most kitchens because it requires little maintenance, is hard and scratch resistant. Quarry tile will need extensive sealing.
Conclusion
Quartz countertops and quarry tiles offer different benefits. Quartz provides a durable, low-maintenance surface made from crushed stone and resin. Quarry tile delivers the beauty of natural stone but requires more sealing and care. While the two materials have some similarities, quartz counters definitely are not made from quarry tiles. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of each to determine the best choice for your next kitchen or bathroom project.