The Origins of Quartz Countertops
- Quartz is an engineered stone made from about 90-95% ground natural quartz crystals combined with polyresin binders.
- It was first developed as a high-performance and low-maintenance alternative to natural stone countertops like granite and marble in the 1960s.
- Dupont debuted the first quartz surface for countertops in 1967 under the brand name Zodiaq. This started the trend toward acceptance of engineered quartz.
Growth in Popularity in the 1990s
- In the 1990s, more companies like Cambria and Silestone started manufacturing and marketing quartz surfaces for residential and commercial use.
- Improved manufacturing techniques and more pattern and color options made quartz an appealing option over natural stone and laminates.
- By the late 1990s, quartz became a popular higher-end option along with granite for kitchen countertops as new construction and remodeling increased.
Surging Demand in the 2000s
- Quartz popularity surged in the 2000s as major brands like Caesarstone, LG Viatera, Cambria, Silestone and others ramped up marketing and distribution.
- More unique patterns like veining and flecks made quartz look more natural while retaining its durability.
- Demand quintupled from 2000 to 2008 as quartz was used in 4% of kitchens to 20% by 2008.
Pros Driving Adoption
Several factors drove quartz countertop growth in the 2000s:
- Durability – Quartz is harder and more scratch and stain resistant than granite and other natural stones. It retains its polish and luster for longer.
- Low Maintenance – Quartz requires very little sealing or polishing compared to natural stone. Simple cleaning is enough.
- Consistent patterning – Engineered quartz has uniform speckles and veining unlike natural stone with irregular patterns.
- Heat and impact resistance– Quartz stands up to heat and impact better than granite or marble.
- Color and finish options– Quartz comes in almost any color and gloss or matte finishes.
Recent Years and Future Outlook
- By 2016, quartz represented over 30% of annual countertop sales, passing granite as the leader.
- Higher-end luxury patterns and designs are growing in popularity. Textured finishes are on trend.
- Demand is expected to continue growing as quartz gets more realistic and competitive against natural stone on aesthetics while retaining functional benefits.
- Rising new construction and remodeling will drive installation of several million quartz countertops annually.
When Did Quartz Countertops Became Popular?
In summary, quartz transitioned from an exotic engineered product in the 60s/70s to a premium countertop choice in the 90s to the most popular overall countertop material by the late 2000s. Its growth has mirrored the expansion of engineered stone options and technological improvements allowing quartz to realistically emulate high-end natural stone aesthetics while delivering exceptional durability and practicality. In recent years, quartz has dominated the kitchen countertop market and is expected to continue gaining share into the foreseeable future.
FAQs about Quartz Countertops
When were quartz countertops first invented?
The first quartz surfaces for countertops were invented in the 1960s by DuPont under the brand name Zodiaq. This started the transition toward engineered quartz countertops.
What makes quartz countertops low maintenance?
Quartz requires very little regular sealing or polishing compared to natural stone counters. Simple cleaning with soap and water is enough for routine maintenance.
Why is quartz stain resistant?
The resin binders that make up 8-10% of quartz make it non-porous so stains have a hard time penetrating the surface. Quartz repels stains much better than porous natural stones.
Does quartz get damaged by heat?
Quartz is tolerant of normal kitchen heat. Very hot pots and pans usually won’t damage quartz like they can natural stone. Always use trivets as a best practice.
How did patterns in quartz become more realistic?
Manufacturing advances in the 2000s allowed producers to create more variation and movement in quartz patterns. Unique veining and flecks aimed to emulate luxury natural stone at lower cost and maintenance.
Why is quartz expected to continue growing in popularity?
With even more realistic high-end aesthetics and competitive pricing vs natural stone, quartz solves problems like durability and maintenance that should keep demand increasing into the future.
Conclusion
After its invention in the 1960s, engineered quartz stone steadily grew from an exotic new countertop material to a luxury option in the 1990s to the most commonly installed counter surface today. Improved manufacturing and patterning processes have allowed quartz to realistically mimic high-end natural stone while being more durable and practical. Thanks to these functional benefits and aesthetics, quartz became the dominant material for new countertop installations by the late 2000s, a position it’s expected to hold going forward as homeowners and builders increasingly choose it over natural stone surfaces.