Quartz countertops that resemble natural marble are growing in popularity. With advanced manufacturing techniques, quartz can be engineered to mimic the beautiful veining and aesthetic of marble without the high maintenance. Here’s an in-depth look at quartz countertops that look like marble.
An Introduction to Engineered Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops, also known as engineered stone, are made from crushed quartz blended with resins and pigments. The mixture is poured into molds then compacted under intense vibration and pressure to form slabs. Key benefits of quartz include:
- Extremely durable and stain resistant
- Requires minimal maintenance
- Non-porous so it does not need to be sealed
- Resists scratching and heat
- Available in a wide range of colors and patterns
While natural marble is carved from quarries, quartz slabs are manufactured in factories under highly controlled conditions. This allows the creation of remarkably realistic faux marble patterns.
How Quartz is Made to Resemble Marble
Advanced manufacturing techniques make it possible to recreate the look of marble in an engineered quartz surface. Here’s how it’s done:
Veining – Intricate veining that resembles marble is achieved by adding pigments to the quartz mixture in the factory. Veins can be bold or delicate and made to follow realistic marble-like patterns.
Background Tone – The background color is controlled by adding different pigments to achieve warm whites, greys, creams, and other marble-like hues. Reputable brands use quality pigments that resist fading or yellowing.
Movement – Movement refers to the natural variations and imperfections found in marble. Skilled technicians sculpt each slab using special tools to impart realistic movement in the stone such as swirls, pits, and striations.
Finish – Gloss, matte, or lightly textured finishes are applied to the slabs depending on the desired look. Honing or etching can increase the marble-like qualities.
Popular Quartz Brands that Emulate Marble
Many leading quartz manufacturers offer marble lookalike options. Here are some of the most popular:
- Caesarstone – Their Calacatta Nuvo collection is renowned for its near-flawless marble aesthetics.
- Cambria – Brittanicca and Ella slabs beautifully capture the essence of marble.
- Silestone – Eternal Collection options like Calacatta Gold are stunningly marble-like.
- LG Viatera – The Aria and Luna quartz lines offer an exquisite marble appearance.
- Quartz Master – Their Ionian and Santorini faux marble collections are budget-friendly options.
Pros and Cons of Choosing Quartz Over Marble
Here’s a quick comparison of some pros and cons to consider when deciding between real marble and marble look quartz:
Pros of Quartz
- Much more durable and scratch resistant
- Repels stains and needs no sealing
- Consistent patterning with no flaws or pits
- Requires minimal maintenance
- Won’t etch from acidic foods or cleaners
Pros of Marble
- Genuine natural material
- Can be repaired, refinished, and re-polished indefinitely
- Uniqueness of each slab
- Ability to achieve a high gloss shine
- Prestige and luxury of real stone
Installation and Maintenance Tips
- Have slabs professionally installed for best results.
- Use nonabrasive cleaners designed for stone surfaces.
- Blot spills quickly to prevent staining.
- Avoid exposing to harsh chemicals or acidic substances.
- Consider professional sealing for extra protection (optional).
- Resealing and polishing may be needed periodically.
Gorgeous Quartz with a Marble Look
Quartz manufacturing innovations now allow for incredibly realistic marble aesthetics. For those desiring the visual impact of marble without the maintenance, marble-look quartz provides the best of both worlds. When selecting quartz over marble, be sure to view slabs in-person from quality brands to ensure the patterning and coloration meet your expectations. With the right choice, you can enjoy stunning marble beauty rendered in durable, low-maintenance engineered quartz.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marble look quartz cheaper than real marble?
Yes, marble look quartz countertops are generally cheaper than real marble. The manufacturing process allows quartz to be produced efficiently, resulting in a more affordable alternative to natural stone.
Does engineered quartz stain like marble?
No. High-quality quartz is non-porous and resistant to stains. Engineered quartz does not require sealing and is not prone to staining like natural marble surfaces. Even acidic foods like lemon juice will not etch or stain properly maintained quartz counters.
How durable is marble look quartz?
Quartz countertops are very durable compared to real marble. They resist scratches, dents, chips, cracks and stand up well to heavy daily use. The resins make quartz much more flexural strength than fragile natural stone.
Does quartz need to be sealed like marble?
No. Because quartz is non-porous, it does not require sealing. Marble is porous and must be regularly sealed to prevent stains from being absorbed. One advantage of quartz over marble is that it remains stain-resistant without ongoing sealing.
Can you set hot pans on marble look quartz?
Yes. Quartz is heat resistant and can tolerate brief exposure to hot pots and pans without damage. However, prolonged direct heat could potentially damage the solid surface over time. Using trivets is recommended to preserve its beauty.
How often does quartz need to be polished?
Quartz does not require frequent polishing like natural stone. Its durable surface resists scratching and etching. At most, a quartz countertop may need occasional professional polishing every 3-5 years depending on usage and care. Keeping the surface free of abrasives minimizes the need.
Conclusion
Marble look quartz provides an attractive, low maintenance alternative to genuine marble surfaces. Advanced manufacturing creates stunningly realistic marble patterns in durable engineered stone. When properly cared for, quartz requires very little upkeep compared to high-demand marble. For those desiring marble aesthetics without the drawbacks, today’s marble look quartz collections offer an ideal solution. With innovative technology, you truly can have the visual beauty of marble rendered in resilient quartz.