White quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodels in recent years. But are they just a passing trend, or are white quartz countertops here to stay? Let’s take a closer look at the pros, cons, costs, and style considerations of white quartz countertops.
An Introduction to White Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone countertops, are made from crushed quartz combined with resins and pigments. The end result is a durable, non-porous material that resists stains, scratches, and heat better than many natural stone options.
White quartz specifically refers to quartz countertops made with a white or light-colored base. The most common shades are white, antique white, and cream. White quartz countertops offer a clean, bright look that makes spaces appear more open and airy. They also serve as a neutral backdrop that pairs well with many design styles.
The Pros of White Quartz Countertops
There are several reasons why white quartz countertops have surged in popularity:
Durability
Quartz is one of the most durable countertop materials available today. It’s harder and less prone to damage than natural stone. White quartz resists stains, scratches, chips, and heat very well compared to other countertop options. This makes it an ideal choice for busy kitchens and bathrooms.
Low Maintenance
A major advantage of white quartz is that it requires very little maintenance compared to many other countertop materials. Quartz does not need to be sealed regularly like natural stone. Simple cleaning with soap and water is often all that’s needed to keep white quartz countertops looking like new.
Stylish Appearance
White quartz has an attractive, streamlined appearance that fits with both traditional and contemporary design aesthetics. The neutral white tone allows flexibility in design choices. White quartz can be dressed up for elegant spaces or paired with bold colors and patterns. The consistency of color throughout quartz also appeals to many homeowners.
Adds Value
Quality quartz countertops can increase resale value of homes. White quartz is affordable luxury. It offers the beautiful look of stone for less cost. Homebuyers also appreciate low-maintenance quartz. Going with a white quartz design is unlikely to turn off potential buyers.
Potential Downsides to Consider
While white quartz countertops have many benefits, there are a few potential drawbacks:
- Upfront Cost – Quartz is more expensive than options like laminate. The average total cost for white quartz countertops ranges from $80-$150 per square foot installed.
- Limited Customization – Color and pattern options are preset by manufacturers. There are fewer options for dramatic veining or unique designs compared to natural stone.
- Heat Sensitivity – While quartz resists heat well, extremely hot pans can damage the surface over time. Using trivets is recommended to prevent burns.
- Seams Visible – Seams between slabs are usually faint but noticeable upon close inspection, which some homeowners dislike.
Is White Quartz Just a Fad?
White and gray tones have been popular in home design over the past decade. Some speculate that white kitchens may eventually fall out of favor. However, many signs point to white quartz countertops remaining a sought-after option among homeowners:
- Neutral Tone – Crisp white quartz complements any color scheme. It won’t clash as trends come and go. This versatility gives it staying power.
- Clean Look – The smooth, streamlined look of white quartz has perennial appeal. It provides a lightweight visual effect that makes spaces feel open.
- Durability – Excellent durability and low maintenance requirements mean white quartz installed today can still look great a decade or more from now.
- Affordable Luxury – Quartz fits the desire for high-end style at an attainable price point that should continue even if economic landscapes shift.
While trends come and go, white quartz combines useful properties like durability with an appealing clean aesthetic. This versatility leads many kitchen designers to believe white quartz will have longevity as a stylish neutral.
Design Styles for White Quartz Countertops
One of the advantages of white quartz is its ability to chameleon into many different design aesthetics. Here are some popular styles well-suited for white quartz:
Contemporary
White quartz looks right at home in sleek, contemporary spaces. The neutral backdrop complements bolder choices like industrial styling or avant-garde light fixtures without competing. Crisp white also plays up modern simplicity.
Traditional
For a classic take, white quartz evokes luxurious marble or limestone minus high maintenance. Fluted columns, chandeliers, and other ornate details pop against white. Quartz offers durability to handle daily use in busy traditional kitchens.
Farmhouse
White quartz is a natural fit for popular farmhouse style. Its brightness reflects light to create the welcoming vibe farmhouse is known for. White quartz also complements common elements like exposed wood beams, subway tile, and apron front sinks.
Coastal
White quartz brings to mind seaside living. Pair white countertops with weathered blues and grays, beadboard paneling, or reclaimed wood accents to complete the coastal aesthetic. The durability of quartz also suits beach homes prone to sand and sun damage.
Transitional
For those favoring an in-between style, white quartz effortlessly bridges traditional and contemporary sensibilities. It provides a neutral yet sophisticated canvas to layer classic and modern elements.
Should You Choose White Quartz?
White quartz is an excellent option for homeowners who value low maintenance, durability, and versatile styling. Minor downsides like seaming and heat sensitivity are usually overshadowed by the positives for most buyers.
While white kitchens and bathrooms will likely wax and wane in popularity over time, crisp white quartz offers usefulness that transcends changing trends. For many homeowners, white quartz strike an ideal balance between timeless appeal and practicality. If these qualities align with your home goals, white quartz could be the perfect contemporary yet classic choice.
FAQs About White Quartz Countertops
Is white quartz cheaper than granite?
White quartz is often slightly cheaper than granite, with granite averaging $80-$120 per square foot and quartz in the $70-$100 range. However, elite granite and quartz grades may overlap in pricing.
What is the most popular white quartz?
Cambria White Cliff is the bestselling white quartz color, with a softly textured white and ivory marbling that fits well with many kitchen designs. Other trendy options are Quartzforms Cloud and Caesarstone Frosty Carrina.
Does white quartz easily stain?
White quartz resists stains very well due to being non-porous. Acids like lemon juice or wine can dull the surface over time with excessive exposure. But quartz does not require sealing and rarely permanently stains with normal kitchen use.
Is white quartz bright in person?
White quartz has a moderately bright appearance, more than most granite but less than stark options like solid surface. Quartz contains natural variation so few appear overly sterile. Lighting choices can also soften or brighten the look as desired.
Does white quartz need to be sealed?
Sealing is not necessary for quartz countertops. The resin binds the crushed stone so that the surface is waterproof and non-porous. This eliminates the need for periodic sealing required with porous natural stones like marble.
Conclusion
With its stylish neutrality, high durability, and design versatility, white quartz countertops offer compelling advantages that explain their popularity. White quartz is likely here to stay as a top choice among homeowners looking for fashionable low-maintenance countertops suitable for busy daily use. Its clean and bright aesthetic feels fresh today yet also has enduring appeal that should carry white quartz trends forward for years to come. For many buyers, opting for white quartz strike the right balance between practicality and timeless elegance.