Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodels in recent years. Made from ground quartz stone blended with resins and pigments, quartz offers a durable, low-maintenance, and stylish alternative to natural stone and laminate countertops. But like all countertop materials, quartz has both advantages and disadvantages to consider before making a purchase. This article will examine the key pros and cons of quartz countertops to help you decide if they are the right choice for your home.
Pros of Quartz Countertops
Durability
One of the biggest advantages of quartz countertops is their extreme durability. Quartz is one of the hardest minerals, making countertops very resistant to scratches, stains, burns, and damage from impact. In fact, quartz rates 7 out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, outperforming most other countertop materials. This makes it an ideal choice for busy kitchens and bathrooms that see heavy daily use. The resin binders in quartz also make it more flexible and resistant to cracks than natural stone. With proper care, quartz countertops can easily last several decades looking like new.
Low Maintenance
Another benefit of quartz is that it requires very little maintenance compared to other countertop materials. Quartz resists staining and etching from acids, so it does not need to be sealed or re-polished over time like natural stone. Heat and scratch-resistance also minimize the need for repairs. Simple cleaning with soap and water is usually enough to keep quartz looking pristine. More stubborn messes can be handled with a non-abrasive cleaner. The low maintenance needs make quartz a convenient and hassle-free option.
Appearance
With patterns and colors created during manufacturing, quartz offers much more variety than natural stone when it comes to aesthetics. Sparkling specks of quartz crystals blended into the background create dimension and visual interest. Quartz can mimic the look of natural stone like marble along with more unique modern styles. There are hundreds of color and pattern options to match any design vision, from neutrals to bold colors. The customization possibilities make quartz an ideal choice for designers.
Non-Porous
Quartz surfaces are non-porous, unlike more porous natural stone materials. This means liquids and grime cannot seep into the countertop surface over time. Quartz will not harbor bacteria or need resealing to prevent staining and damage. The non-porous quality makes quartz countertops very hygienic and ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. It also prevents damage from spills and daily use.
Affordability
While not the cheapest countertop option, quartz offers good value in terms of durability and appearance. Theaverage installed cost of quartz is $40-100 per square foot. This compares favorably to natural stone at $60-200 per square foot. The long lifespan and minimal maintenance of quartz offset much of the initial investment over time. Greater affordability has made quartz popular for budget-conscious renovations.
Heat and Scratch Resistance
Quartz holds up to heat and scratches better than many other countertop materials. Hot pots and pans generally will not damage a quartz surface. Minor scratches from cutting or appliances can be buffed out in most cases. This damage resistance minimizes the need for repairs over the lifespan of the countertop. Quartz offers peace of mind for busy kitchens.
Cons of Quartz Countertops
Lacks Natural Variation
While the color and pattern options of quartz countertops are vast, the manufacturing process does create a more uniform appearance than natural stone. The specks and swirls in quartz have less distinction and depth than the unique veins and markings of materials like granite and marble. Natural stone offers one-of-a-kind variation that some homeowners find more visually appealing.
Requires Professional Installation
Quartz countertops are very heavy, with large slabs weighing over 100 pounds. Proper installation is not a DIY project. Creating seams between countertop slabs without gaps requires specialized tools. Hiring a professional installer is necessary not only for proper function but also to protect the manufacturer’s warranty. Professional installation adds to the total cost of quartz countertops.
Can Chip if Subjected to Impact
While resistant to surface scratches, quartz can chip if subjected to heavy impact. Dropping a heavy object on a quartz countertop directly on an edge or corner has the potential to cause chips or cracks. The good news is that small chips can often be repaired by a professional to restore the countertop’s appearance. But heavy impact should still be avoided.
Seams Are Visible
Since natural quartz slabs are limited in size, visible seams are almost always present in quartz countertops. The seams can be minimized by skilled installers but are still noticeable upon close inspection. Those desiring a seamless appearance may prefer materials like concrete, soapstone, or granite. However, many homeowners consider quartz seams a minor aesthetic issue.
Limited Heat Resistance
While quartz is heat-resistant compared to other engineered surfaces, it still can only tolerate moderate heat exposure. Prolonged direct contact with very hot pots and pans over 175°F could potentially cause minor damage over time. Trivets or hot pads are recommended for hot cookware. High heat activities like using a countertop grill should be avoided.
Can Stain from Colored Liquids
While resistant to many stains, prolonged exposure to colored liquids like red wine, coffee, or tomato sauce can cause some staining on a quartz surface. Dyes penetrate microscopic abrasions in the surface that occur through normal use. Stains may fade over time but can be difficult to remove entirely. Sealing and re-polishing may help minimize staining.
Higher Price than Tile or Laminate
Quartz costs significantly more than ceramic tile, laminate, and some other budget-friendly countertop materials. The average total installed price is $2,000-4,500 for a typical 30 square foot countertop area. While durable, the higher upfront investment may not fit all budgets. But for many homeowners, the beauty and longevity justify the cost.
Not Fully Heatproof
Contrary to some claims, quartz should not be considered 100% heatproof. As an engineered stone, it still can suffer heat damage from extremely hot objects placed directly on the surface. For example, setting a scalding hot pan fresh from the stovetop could potentially cause minor scorching. While quite heat resistant, quartz does have limits.
Can Be Prone to Damage if Thin
To save on cost, some fabricators offer thin 3/4″ thick quartz slabs. While durable overall, thinner quartz is more vulnerable to chips, cracks, and discoloration with impact or flexion. Most experts recommend choosing at least 2 cm thick quartz for optimal durability and longevity. Thinner options do save on cost but sacrifice long-term performance.
Lacks Natural Stone Prestige
For some luxury home projects, nothing but genuine natural stone like marble or granite will do. As an engineered product, some designers and homeowners feel quartz lacks the cachet and aesthetic value of a natural stone surface. This perception of quartz as a less prestigious material limits its popularity in high-end homes. But for most homeowners, beauty and practicality are bigger priorities.
FAQs
Is quartz better than granite?
Quartz and granite each have advantages and disadvantages. Quartz is more durable, non-porous, consistent in color, and requires less maintenance. Granite offers a more prestigious, natural stone appearance but requires sealing and polishing. Overall, quartz provides better practicality for busy kitchens. But some still prefer granite’s natural beauty.
Is Caesarstone better than Silestone?
Caesarstone and Silestone are two leading quartz countertop brands that offer very comparable quality and performance. Both offer extensive style and color options. Minor differences come down to price, warranty terms, and availability. But for most consumers, Caesarstone and Silestone are functionally equal top choices.
Does quartz add value to a home?
Installed by professionals, quartz countertops can increase a home’s resale value like most renovations. The average homeowner can recoup about 70-80% of the cost of quartz countertops at resale. The stylish appearance and durability of quartz make it appealing to potential buyers. But very high-end quartz may exceed what the local real estate market supports.
Can you cut on quartz countertops?
Quartz surfaces are highly scratch resistant but not scratch proof. Cutting directly on a quartz countertop will eventually dull knives and leave light scratches over time. To maintain the flawless look of quartz, always use a cutting board for food preparation instead of cutting directly on the counter. Minor scratches can often be buffed out.
Does quartz stain easily?
Quartz is resistant to most household stains like coffee, wine, and juice spills. But prolonged exposure to certain materials like ink, nail polish, and dyes can stain the surface. Most stains that occur are mild and fade over time. Avoiding harsh cleansers and resealing the surface can minimize staining. Overall, quartz offers excellent stain resistance.
How thick should a quartz countertop be?
A thickness of 2-3 cm (about 1 inch) is ideal for a quartz countertop. At this thickness quartz provides the best durability and heat resistance. 3 cm quartz costs more but prevents cracks and damage over the long term. Very thin 1 cm quartz can crack more easily. Most experts recommend choosing quartz slabs at least 2 cm thick.
Conclusion
With their stylish appearance, durability, and low maintenance needs, quartz countertops offer one of the best options for busy kitchens and bathrooms. The extreme hardness and scratch resistance of quartz along with vast color and pattern choices give homeowners flexibility when designing their perfect workspace. Easy cleaning and longevity even in wet areas make quartz a practical choice.
However, the higher cost, vulnerability to impact damage, and somewhat unnatural manufactured appearance may make quartz less appealing for some budgets and design tastes. Weighing the pros and cons of maintenance, durability, appearance, and cost can help determine if quartz is the right countertop material for your next remodeling project. Get in touch with a countertop professional to discuss your needs and choose the perfect quartz surfaces for your home. With the right homework and expert installation, quartz offers decades of hassle-free beauty.