Quartz has become an increasingly popular countertop material in recent years, prized for its durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance. But is it truly the best material for kitchen and bathroom countertops? Here is an in-depth look at the pros and cons of quartz countertops to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your home.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, also known as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals blended with resins and pigments. The quartz content typically ranges from 90-94%. The rest consists of high-quality polymer resins and pigments that allow manufacturers to produce slabs in a wide array of colors and patterns.
Compared to natural stone like granite and marble, quartz is non-porous and highly resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. The resins make quartz more flexible and workable than natural stone. Quartz slabs are fabricated in factories under highly controlled conditions to create countertops with consistent coloring and patterning.
Pros of Quartz Countertops
Extremely Durable and Low Maintenance
Quartz is one of the most durable options for countertops. The quartz crystals make it incredibly scratch, chip, and crack resistant. It stands up well to heavy daily use without showing wear and tear. The non-porous surface repels liquids, so it does not need to be sealed like natural stone. Quartz resists stains from coffee, wine, grease, and other common kitchen substances. Simple wiping with a damp cloth easily keeps quartz clean.
Heat and Stain Resistant
You don’t have to worry about hot pans or staining from spills when you have quartz countertops. Quartz can withstand temperatures up to 212°F without any damage. Accidental spills wipe up easily without leaving a trace. This makes quartz an ideal choice for busy kitchens.
Attractive Styles and Colors
With quartz, you can achieve the look of natural stone or granite but with more color and pattern consistency. Manufacturers offer hundreds of unique quartz patterns and colors. Options range from solid colors to styles mimicking marble or granite. Some quartz types have glittering flecks or veining for added visual interest. The customization possibilities are endless.
More Affordable Than Natural Stone
Quartz counters offer the durability and look of natural stone for less cost in most cases. Quartz countertops range $80-140 per square foot installed. This compares favorably to granite ($60-150 per square foot installed) and marble ($100-250 per square foot installed). The price can vary based on the quality, color, and rareness of the stone.
Easier Installation
Quartz slabs are typically thinner than natural stone slabs. The lighter weight makes transportation and installation easier. Thinner pieces are also less likely to crack during fabrication and installation. This reduces waste and keeps costs lower.
Long-lasting with Minimal Upkeep
With proper care, quartz counters will retain their beauty for many years. You don’t have to seal, polish, or re-finish quartz. At most, a re-application of color-enhancing sealer every 3-5 years can help quartz maintain its vibrancy. With just simple cleaning, quartz countertops can serve you well for the long haul.
Cons of Quartz Countertops
Lacks the Natural Variation of Stone
The resins and pigments added during manufacturing give quartz color and pattern consistency not found in natural stone. While quartz offers immense design flexibility, each slab has less uniqueness than granite, marble, and other natural stones. If you want the striking variations found in nature, quartz may underwhelm.
Can Chip if Subjected to Heavy Impact
While quartz stands up incredibly well to daily wear and tear, it can chip if subjected to heavy impact. Quartz is not indestructible. A heavy pot or pan dropped directly on a quartz countertop may cause chips or cracks. With careful use, you should not have issues but the risk exists.
Requires Professional Installation
Quartz countertops are quite heavy, with a typical 2cm slab weighing 115 pounds per square foot. Moving and installing quartz slabs requires professional expertise. DIY installation is not recommended. The installation cost must be factored into your countertop budget.
Fewer Recycled Material Options
Sustainability-minded consumers can purchase granite and marble countertops made from recycled stone. Recycled quartz options are still quite limited. If eco-friendly materials are important to you, quartz may not fully satisfy. Recycled glass and paper can be used but availability is low.
Can Develop a Patina Over Time
While quartz resists stains remarkably well, oils and fluids can leave a patina or buildup on the surface over many years. This results in a change of gloss level. Some people find this patina undesirable. Re-application of a sealer can help prevent patina development.
Requires More Seams the Larger the Installation
Larger quartz countertop installations generally require more seams than granite or marble. This is because quartz slabs are only available in certain sizes due to manufacturing constraints. More seams can disrupt visual continuity but are often unavoidable.
Is Quartz the Right Choice for Your Countertops?
Quartz offers an optimal balance of fashionable style, resilience, and affordability. For most homeowners, the pros heavily outweigh the cons. The only significant downsides are the lack of natural variation and the need for professional installation. If these factors are not concerning, quartz likely is the best countertop material for your needs.
To decide if quartz is right for your kitchen or bath, consider:
- Your budget – Quartz is cost-effective but still has a higher price tag than materials like laminate. Make sure it fits your budget.
- Your color/style preferences – View quartz slabs in person at distributor showrooms to choose the aesthetic you love.
- Your countertop usage – Quartz stands up to heavy use. It’s ideal for busy kitchens and bathrooms.
- Who will install – Hire professionals you trust to fabricate and install your quartz.
- Long-term plans – Quartz is a lifelong investment that will serve you well for decades.
While no material is perfect, quartz comes close for being the best all-around countertop choice. With the right style selected, proper installation, and periodic maintenance, quartz countertops will provide lasting beauty and performance for your home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Quartz Countertops
Is quartz better than granite?
Quartz and granite both make excellent choices. Quartz is harder, more stain resistant, and requires less maintenance. Granite offers more natural variation. Quartz often costs a bit less. It comes down to your personal preferences.
Does quartz need to be sealed?
No. Because it is non-porous, quartz does not require regular sealing like granite and marble. At most, a sealant can be applied every few years to enhance the color. Simple cleaning is all that is needed.
Is quartz toxic?
Quartz is considered non-toxic and safe for food preparation when manufactured properly. Reputable brands meet health and safety standards. Avoid cheaper brands that may leach more resin. The small resin content is firmly bonded in proper quartz.
Is quartz expensive to install?
Installation averages $40-100 per square foot. Simple countertop layouts on stable cabinetry cost less. Larger or more complex installations run higher. Your total cost depends on slab prices, installation labor, and job size. Be sure to get quotes from experienced installers.
How thick should a quartz countertop be?
A 1.5 cm or 3/4 inch thickness works well for most residential kitchen countertops. For heavier use island tops, a 2 cm or 1 1/4 inch thickness provides extra durability. Thicker quartz is also recommended for bathroom vanity tops.
Does quartz add value to a home?
Yes, high-quality quartz countertops do add resale value like granite, marble, and other upscale materials. The upgrade cost is often recouped if the home is sold. Neutral quartz colors have the widest appeal to buyers.
Conclusion
Quartz makes an excellent investment for kitchens, bathrooms, and other living spaces. While no material is perfect, quartz provides an unbeatable combination of fashionable looks, extreme durability, and easy maintenance. It outperforms many other countertop options in terms of longevity and daily performance. Minor downsides like lack of natural variation and professional installation needs do not outweigh the significant advantages for most homeowners. If you seek sophisticated style and resilience at a reasonable price point, quartz likely is the best countertop material choice to meet your needs for many years to come.