Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects in recent years. But is quartz actually considered a solid surface material? Here is a detailed look at what quartz countertops are made of and how they compare to other solid surface materials like granite and Corian.
What is Quartz Made of?
Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with polyester resins and pigments. The typical quartz slabs are around 90-95% ground quartz and 5-10% resins and pigments.
The quartz crystals come from quarries around the world. Once mined, the crystals are ground into a fine powder. The powdered quartz is then combined with polyester resins, pigments, and other compounds under extreme heat and pressure. This forms a durable, non-porous material that can be fabricated into countertops, tiles, and other surfaces.
Is Quartz Considered a Solid Surface Material?
Yes, quartz is considered a solid surface material. The key factors that categorize a countertop material as “solid surface” are:
- It is non-porous – liquids do not penetrate the material
- It is homogeneous – evenly mixed throughout without seams
- It is durable – resistant to scratches, stains, heat, and impact
- Can be repaired – damaged areas can be sanded and refinished
Quartz exhibits all of these solid surface characteristics. The ground quartz is combined with resins to form an even, homogeneous material without pores or seams. Quartz is also highly durable and resistant to damage while allowing minor repairs if needed.
How Quartz Compares to Other Solid Surfaces
Quartz has some similarities and differences when compared to other leading solid surface countertop materials:
Granite – Natural quarried stone that is porous and requires sealing. Granite is heat resistant but can crack or chip if impacted. Difficult to repair damaged areas.
Marble – Natural quarried stone that stains easily and requires frequent sealing due to porosity. Elegant appearance but requires more maintenance.
Corian – A man-made acrylic/polyester blend solid surface. Softer and less heat/scratch resistant than quartz. Seamless appearance but needs frequent polishing.
Quartz – Extremely durable and scratch resistant. Resists stains and needs no sealing. Heat tolerant and easy to clean. Seamless appearance and repairable surface.
While granite and marble are also considered solid surfaces, quartz stands out due to its durability and low maintenance requirements. Quartz offers a seamless appearance without the durability issues of other engineered surfaces like Corian. This combination of aesthetics and functionality is what makes quartz a top choice as a solid surface.
The Pros and Cons of Quartz Countertops
Pros:
- Durable and scratch resistant surface
- Resists stains, etching, and heat damage
- Low porosity so does not require sealing
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Wide variety of colors and patterns
- Seamless appearance
- Repairable surface
Cons:
- More expensive than some materials like laminate
- Limited number of suppliers
- Can chip if subjected to heavy impact
- Some discoloration in sunlight over time
Is Quartz the Right Choice for Your Countertops?
Quartz provides an excellent combination of durability, aesthetics, and ease of maintenance that makes it a top choice for solid surface countertops. If you are looking for a material that is beautiful, yet highly functional for kitchens or bathrooms, quartz should be strongly considered.
Of course, the final decision depends on your budget, design needs, and how you use your countertops. Consult with knowledgeable countertop suppliers to review quartz samples along with other solid surface options. This will help you determine if a quartz surface is the perfect choice to upgrade your space. With the right research and advice, you can feel confident that a quartz countertop will provide lasting performance and satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions About Quartz Countertops
Is quartz more expensive than granite?
Quartz countertops are generally more expensive than granite. The average installed price for quartz is $80-100 per square foot, while granite averages $60-80 per square foot installed. The price can vary based on the brand and color.
What are the best quartz brands?
Some of the top quartz brands include Caesarstone, Cambria, Silestone, Vicostone, MSI, Cosentino, and Hanwha. These companies offer the highest quality quartz and variety of color/pattern options.
Does quartz need to be sealed?
No, quartz does not require any sealing. The resin binders make quartz non-porous so liquids do not penetrate the surface. This means quartz is naturally stain resistant and requires no ongoing sealing.
Can you repair quartz countertops?
Minor damage like scratches and chips can be sanded and polished out of a quartz surface by a professional. For cracks or major damage, the affected quartz section may need replacement if it cannot be repaired.
Is quartz scratch resistant?
Quartz is very scratch resistant but not scratch proof. Cutting directly on the surface should be avoided. Any scratches that do occur will be shallow and can often be buffed out easily.
Can you cut on quartz countertops?
It is best to avoid cutting directly on a quartz counter. The surface is durable but direct cutting can damage the integrity over time. Use a cutting board instead to maintain the beauty of the quartz.
Does quartz stain easily?
Quartz has very low porosity so it resists staining quite well. Spills should be wiped up in a timely manner, but quartz does not require ongoing sealing to prevent stains.
Is quartz heat resistant?
Quartz has relatively good heat resistance. Brief exposure to temperatures up to 300°F is acceptable. Use trivets or hot pads to protect the surface from very hot pots and pans.
Conclusion
With its durable yet beautiful surface, quartz has become a premier choice as a solid surface countertop material. Though not indestructible, quartz offers superior scratch, stain, and heat resistance while requiring little maintenance compared to natural stone and other solid surfaces. Its seamless appearance provides an elegant look for any kitchen or bath. While quartz is costlier than materials like laminate, its unmatched combination of form and function make it a smart long-term investment for your home.