Quartz countertops can make an excellent addition to any bathroom. Here is a detailed look at using quartz in bathroom countertops.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes called engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The result is a man-made material that is highly durable, stain and scratch resistant, and easy to maintain.
Quartz has some key advantages over natural stone like marble or granite:
- More consistent pattern and color since it is engineered
- Non-porous so it won’t stain
- Doesn’t need regular sealing
- Highly scratch resistant
- Can be fabricated to have a glossy or matte finish
Brands like Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone make popular quartz countertop options. There are many color and pattern choices to fit any design aesthetic.
Is Quartz Good for Bathroom Countertops?
Quartz is an excellent choice for bathroom vanity and tub/shower surround countertops for several reasons:
Moisture Resistance
Quartz resists water and humidity and won’t easily harbor mold or bacteria growth. This makes it ideal for humid bathroom environments.
Durability
With proper fabrication, quartz is highly durable and made to stand up to daily wear and tear. It won’t easily chip or crack. The non-porous surface resists scratches, stains, and heat.
Low Maintenance
Unlike marble or other natural stone, quartz does not need regular sealing. Simple cleaning with mild soap and water is enough to keep quartz surfaces pristine.
Design Flexibility
Quartz comes in a wide array of colors, patterns, and finishes. Matte options resist water marks and fingerprints. You can find a shade to coordinate with any design style.
Longevity
With proper care, quartz countertops can last for many decades in the bathroom. This makes them a sound long-term investment.
Pros of Using Quartz in Bathrooms
There are many good reasons to opt for quartz bathroom countertops:
- Withstands moisture and humidity
- Resists stains, scratches, and heat damage
- Easy to keep clean and sanitize
- Little maintenance required, no sealing needed
- Durable and made to last for decades
- Available in many color/pattern options
- Neutral shades ideal if selling home
- Provides modern, stylish look
- Adds value and appeal to bathrooms
- Long manufacturer warranties available
- Can be fabricated with integrated sinks
- Grease, oil, and soap won’t penetrate surface
Potential Cons to Consider
No material is perfect, so here are a few potential downsides of quartz bathroom countertops to be aware of:
- More expensive than laminate countertops
- Can chip if subject to impact damage
- Requires professional fabrication and installation
- Some very dark colors may show soap scum and water marks
- Won’t have natural stone variation and veining
- Edges may be prone to chipping if not properly finished
- Topical sealants could be needed for dark polished quartz
Installation Tips for Bathrooms
Proper installation is key to ensuring quartz countertops last in high-moisture bathrooms:
- Use a qualified professional fabricator/installer, don’t DIY
- Select a thicker 3cm slab for best results
- Choose a light-colored quartz to resist visible water marks
- Use special waterproof adhesive to attach the slabs
- Check that edges and seams are completely sealed
- Use backsplashes and caulking to seal edges near walls
- Consider complementary designs like tile accents
- Make sure quartz is adequately supported, especially near cutouts
- Don’t place very hot items like curling irons directly on surface
Maintaining and Caring for Quartz
Caring for quartz bathroom counters is simple:
- For daily cleaning, use a soft cloth with warm water and mild soap
- Thoroughly wipe dry to avoid water marks
- For stubborn stains, use a non-abrasive cleaner made for stone surfaces
- Avoid bleach, alkaline cleaners, and abrasive pads/sponges
- Re-apply topical sealants if you notice dark quartz absorbing stains
- Don’t place extremely hot objects like pots directly on the surface
- Use trivets and hot pads under appliances that generate heat
- Immediately wipe up spills to prevent possible damage
FAQs About Using Quartz in Bathrooms
Is quartz really waterproof?
While resistant, quartz is not 100% waterproof. Allowing water to pool for prolonged periods could damage the integrity. But routine bathroom use will not harm properly installed quartz.
Does quartz need to be sealed in bathrooms?
Sealing is not required for quartz like it is for marble and granite. However, some dark quartz colors are prone to absorbing stains without a topical sealer. Check with your fabricator on if they recommend applying a sealer. Re-apply as needed.
Does quartz get damaged by bathroom products?
Quartz resists damage from common toiletries and cleaning products. However, avoid prolonged contact with strong chemicals like nail polish remover or drain cleaners. Always thoroughly rinse the surface after contact with harsh bathroom cleaners.
How often should I clean quartz bathroom counters?
For bathrooms, plan to wipe down quartz daily. Use a soft, non-abrasive cloth with mild soap and warm water. Thorough drying is key to prevent water spots and mineral buildup in areas like around faucets.
Can you cut on a quartz bathroom countertop?
It’s best to avoid cutting directly on quartz. Use a cutting board instead. Quartz is stain resistant, but prolonged exposure to oils and acids from foods can potentially damage or dull the finish over time.
Is quartz a good choice for kids and family bathrooms?
Yes, quartz is very family-friendly. The durable non-porous material withstands messes, won’t easily stain, simplifies cleaning, and is more scratch resistant than many alternatives. Just be sure to wipe up spills promptly and teach kids to avoid direct impacts.
Conclusion
With the right selection, care, and maintenance, quartz makes an excellent long-lasting countertop surface for bathrooms. The engineered stone material brings beauty, durability, and easy care to one of the most used rooms in any home. Just be sure to enlist professional fabrication and installation services to ensure your new quartz counters meet their full potential for longevity in the high-moisture bathroom environment.