About Quartz

Quartz countertops are engineered stone, as opposed to granite countertops which are made of natural stone. To make quartz countertops, natural quartz crystals are mined from the quarry, and then ground into smaller pieces or even dust. The quartz is then fused with resin binders under intense heat and pressure to form a slab. Pigments are often added to achieve particular colors. The industry standard ratio of quartz to resin is approximately 93% quartz, and 7% resin.

Differences from Granite

Because quartz countertop slabs are man-made, they will not have the naturally occurring variances or defects of granite. There will be no fissures or pits, and the color and pattern you see in the showroom will be the exact color and pattern of your countertop slab.

Unlike granite, quartz countertops do not have to be sealed. They are non-porous and stain-resistant due to the infusion of resin. For this reason also, quartz countertops are more flexible than granite, and sometimes easier for fabricators to manipulate.

Granite is a very strong material, but quartz is stronger. Whereas granite countertops are composed of many minerals of varying strengths, quartz countertops utilize only the strongest mineral found in granite. That is, of course, quartz.

The Care and Upkeep of Quartz

Quartz is known for how it resists acids, which means that it’s unlikely to develop stains over time or from spills. It doesn’t require the sealing that natural stone countertops do, so there’s not much maintenance required at all. After you install the countertops, you’ll be able to enjoy them for years while putting in very minimal work.

Of course, you’ll need to wipe down your quartz countertops now and again using water and a mild detergent. We recommend steering clear from abrasive substances like bleach, ammonia, or vinegar and cleaners that contain polish, wax, or oils.

To keep your quartz countertop looking as good as the day you had it installed, always remember to use a cutting board and clean up spills as soon as they happen. And don’t forget to use a hot pad or trivet, as quartz is not known for being heat-resistant in the way that other stones are.

Everyday Care and Maintenance

• Clean with soapy water and a soft cloth.
• Use a non-abrasive sponge for dried-up or heavy stains.
• Although it is stain resistant, it is not stain proof, so always clean up messes as soon as they happen.
• Quartz countertops are heat and scorch resistance up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, but sudden temperature changes or sustained heat can cause the surface to crack. For this reason, it is always recommended to use a trivet or hot pad.
• Do not use bleach or other heavy cleaners.
• Sustained contact with direct sunlight can cause the surface to change color, so it is not recommended for outside use.

The Benefits and Downfalls of Quartz

Quartz is gaining popularity because of how durable it is. People love how long quartz lasts, and they appreciate the fact that they won’t have to replace their countertops for many years.

While quartz is more expensive than other materials like laminate and tile, the quality that you receive is worth the extra money. Quartz is a worthy investment that will serve you for a long time to come.

If you decide that quartz is the stone for you, contact us at Natural Gallery Kitchen & Bath for a consultation. Call us 919-878-1988 today, and make your kitchen counter installation a grand success!!