Things You Should Know About Installing Quartz Kitchen Countertops

QUARTZCOUNTERTOPS One of the greatest rivals of granite countertops in the market are the quartz countertops. With the increasing price and demand for granite, a few of these clients are shifting towards quartz as they have competitive designs, prices, and strength. There is a lot to choose from in the market for these countertops which vary in colors and designs. Some of the popular colors available are apple green, earth brown, fire-red, black, blue, and white. Likewise, they are also picking up on its designs such as mineral veins and sparkles making it more genuine and natural. To learn more, we are going to uncover some of the interesting details on why a quartz countertop is worth investing in your kitchen or bathroom remodeling.

Benefits of Quartz Countertops

To know if this is worth your time and investment, an understanding of its benefits must be done. This will enable you to further weigh things for a quartz countertop against other options.  Reputation: This material has gained prestige from its clients for over 50 years in the industry. In its overall aspect, in terms of hardness and design, it has proven its claim from various cultures and usage.  Aesthetics: Quartz is known for its luxurious and flawless luster. When used as a home accent and design, it definitely adds prestige and value to your home. Its physical appearance is close to perfection as a naturally made stone.  Tough and Durable: These countertops exhibits a strong construction synthetically produced in plants. What makes it hard? It is composed of around 70 to 90 percent pulverized minerals and 10 to 30 percent cement-based resin binders. Consequently, it is also called engineered or compound stones due to the process of making it.  No More Sealing and Maintenance-free: These countertops contain resin binders which makes it more non-porous and scratch proof than granite countertops. Thus, you will no longer apply sealant coatings to make it non-porous and lesser cleanings for these countertops.  Adds Economic Value: Like other minerals, quartz countertops increase the value of your home for resale.  Sanitary: In terms of sanitary functions, these countertops are more non-porous than marble, concrete, and granite types. Consequently, it provides a higher resistance for molds, viruses, and bacteria to grow inside quartz.  Variety: There are more options for design and color for this mineral compared to granite. Moreover, you will find lesser imperfections for quartz countertop as it is synthetically produced, thus, reducing your waste as well.

Quartz Countertops Brands

These countertops are becoming more available and economical due to the sprouting of different brands in the market. Among these several brands, the top four most popular ones are Cambria, Silestone, Caesarstone, and MSI quartz. The differences between these brands lie in four categories: prices, warranties, slab sizes, and designs.  Prices: The price varies for different brands and several factors influence it. Some of these factors include the complexity of the design, slab size, delivery, and other relevant charges.  Warranties: The after-sale service for each brand also differs and it reflects the confidence of the brand. Likewise, there is distinctiveness in the warranty duration and terms of transferring warranty services.  Slab sizes: The seams on quartz slabs can be noticeable which needs fixing so it won’t be much visible. Using two smaller slabs will have a more noticeable seam, so better if you will use a bigger slab to cover larger areas. It will also allow you to save some money for it.  Designs and patterns: Each brand has a distinct design, edge, and pattern. Choosing which brand, greatly depends on your preference.

Cambria

Cambria is a known manufacturer for quartz slabs since 2000 and is based in Minnesota. The company began as a dairy manufacturer in 1936 before shifting in their current business. Likewise, their quartz factory is around 150,000 square foot. The brand has around 133 designs and 19 edges for their slabs. It is mainly known for its mixed fine and heavy textured designs and patterns. The common thickness of their quartz slabs is 1 cm, 2cm, and 3 cm. In addition, the standard and large slab sizes are 55.5” x 122” and 65.5” x 132” respectively. In terms of the warranty, it offers limited lifetime warranty coverage for the original buyers. Likewise, the warranty service is not transferable.

Silestone

Silestone is an Italian quartz company based in Almeria, Spain. Its quartz slabs are highly known for its bright and lively solid colors. Some of its colors include green, red, orange, and blue. Its lively colored quartz slabs are perfect for countertops, shower pans, backsplash, sink, and vanity tops. Among other brands, Silestone offers around 142 designs and 15 edges to match your preference and home. In terms of texture, its products have smooth surfaces with either small or large pores. Meanwhile, the common thicknesses of its slabs are 1.2 cm, 2 cm, 3 cm, ½”, ¾”, and 1-1/14 inches. In addition, the standard and large size dimensions of its quartz slabs are 55” x 120” and 63” x 128” respectively. In comparison with other brands, Silestone offers a limited 25-year warranty which is transferable as long as the original owner transfers it.

Caesarstone

This brand is known to be the first and original manufacturer of quartz which started in 1987. The main branch office of Caesarstone is in Israel and they have two factories: Kiddutz Sdot Yam and Bar Lev Industrial Zone. This company came to existence as a replacement for the dying terrazzo tile industry. Their famous Concetto Collection is composed of ten luxurious designs which are embedded with elegant stones like tiger’s eye, dumortierite, and agate. Whereas, its Motivo Collection is very unique because of its lace finish and embossed croc skin. Caesarstone offers 53 designs and 8 edges for its overall quartz slab collections. Majority of its slabs have satin, matte, and smooth textures. In terms of thickness, their slabs are around 1 cm, 2cm and 3 cm thick. Meanwhile, their standard and large slab sizes are 55.5” x 122.2” and 65.5” x 132” respectively. Similar to Cambria, they offer a limited lifetime warranty for the original owners only. Thus, the warranty service is not transferable.

MSI Quartz

The MSI firm was founded by Manu and Rika Shah in 1975 in Ft. Wayne, Indiana. The company was originally made in order for Shah to continue working and earning while at home. The company grew from distributing granite stones to becoming a manufacturer of various mineral stones such as quartz, granites, marbles, and others in 1997. In terms of design, MSI offers around 95 varied colors and designs of quartz slabs. Their slabs have smooth textures while the designs can be plain smooth, veined, grained, or natural-looking. The common thickness of their slabs is 2 cm and 3 cm. Meanwhile, the existing standard slab sizes are 100” x 26”, 112” x 26”, and 100” x 26”.

How Much Do Engineered Quartz Countertops Cost

Nothing can go wrong from investing on something which would add value and beauty to your home remodeling. We think quartz countertops can be a great option for your kitchen and bathroom remodeling. In the market, the typical best and discount price for quartz countertops you will get is around $75 per square foot. Meanwhile, you still have the flexibility for price options depending on if it is low, medium or high-quality slabs. For low-quality quartz slabs, it will cost between $50 to $65 per square foot. If you want a better quality, the middle-quality slabs will be around $65 to $75 per square foot. Whereas, if you want high-quality ones, it will be priced around $75 to more than $150 per square foot. Furthermore, installation of these quartz countertops can either be DIY or done by professional installers. If you want zero installation costs, then go for DIY. In contrast, the overall cost for the material and installation of a quartz countertop is approximately $125 per square foot. If you are planning to have a 25 square foot quartz installation, the estimated cost for the material and labor is $2,500 to $3,750.

Quartz Kitchen Countertops

Kitchen or bathroom remodeling is done to further beautify one’s home or to increase its value for resale. In doing this, countertops and backsplash are the most noticeable features after the transformation. The beauty and luxurious looks of quartz can further enhance your backsplash and countertops. In line, there are several designs and colors of quartz to complete this make-over.  Orange Quartz Countertop: You can achieve this look by using a Silestone Orange Cool color. The countertop has a soft square lustrous finish using a ¾” thick quartz slab.  Waterfall Quartz Countertop: This design has been commonly used in a contemporary kitchen. It uses a hallmark edge running from the top down to the kitchen floor. You can use a Miami White Silestone for this one.  Elegant White Caesarstone Countertop: When you great quality and performance, nothing beats the 3-inch Caesarstone White quartz countertop. It provides a luxurious and contemporary look in your kitchen.  Black Quartz Countertop: If you want a dramatic aura in your kitchen and bathroom, then a smooth or veined black quartz is a great option. You can use a Black Lacquer Design for this look.. Aside from the examples we shared, there are other means of using quartz slabs to remodel your home. You can install thinner quartz slabs on the sides of your cabinetry or on the kitchen wall. You can replace your existing tile floors with a quartz tile to complement the countertop. You can also play along with your tile backsplash as it covers a smaller area compared to the kitchen wall. You can smooth, grained, or veined quartz design that will suit your kitchen. You can use quartz material for the overhang of your island or peninsula countertop. The standard overhang you can have is around 1 to 1.5 inches. If you plan to make that overhang a permanent table, then you need to install a brace or frame at the edge to have extra support on the weight. Quartz is a good option for your built-in sink in the kitchen. It has better non-porous ability compared to granite and marble.

Quartz Bathroom Countertops

Using quartz in your bathroom remodeling can never go wrong as it adds elegance and value to your home. You can have it on your vanity tops where you will spend much time grooming yourself. Why quartz?   This is a good mineral stone for your vanity tops and bathroom sink.   It comes in more designs and color options compared to granite.   You have a more uniform color and design as it is synthetically produced.   They have better sanitary features because of its non-porous ability.

Quartz Countertop Colors

When it comes to variations in colors and designs, quartz offers a wider array compared to granites as it can be tailored-fit during production. Moreover, quartz has several benefits to offer for homeowners such as toughness, beauty, sanitary, and flexibility in designs. Different brands of quartz offer various colors but the most common of all are black, white and blue.

Black Quartz Countertops

A black quartz countertop can be in various textures such as smooth, matte, shiny, solid, or veined. There are more options to choose from quartz black slabs compared to other mineral stones.In general, this color provides a mystique and classical look to your kitchen or bathroom. Here are some of our insights for your black quartz countertops.You can use black quartz for your wall hung to give that spacious look. Moreover, with dim light, this slab can sparkle to give you a little bright light in the dark.If you will be having a farmhouse kitchen design, then black quartz for your countertop with a few veins of white marble is a perfect fit. Likewise, the black color will complement the wood color of your farmhouse design.Meanwhile, if you have a large kitchen island, then that becomes a center of attraction. Choosing a solid black color will give a seamless look for the modern kitchen. In contrast, you can also choose black color with white specks to have some visual distractors on the surface.

White Quartz Countertops

Choosing a white countertop for your kitchen and bathroom is an undying excellent choice for a clean and elegant ambiance. Aside from beauty, white color is highly available and versatile which can complement other strong colors in your existing kitchen and bathroom area. It can either boost a contemporary or classic look depending on the design of furniture and appliances placed inside. One setback for white color is that it gets easily dirty but no worries as quartz are very easy to wipe off and have antibacterial abilities. Here are some of the benefits of having a white quartz countertop:   Best for a contemporary atmosphere   Clean look   Has high non-porous abilities   Can complement various colors and even black color

Blue Quartz Countertops

If you are tired of white or black, then have the blue color which is a crowd pleaser. This color depicts tranquility and peace of mind. A Belgian blue with black shade color is a good choice considering it has a heat resistant traits. Meanwhile, you can have Blue Louise quartzite for your kitchen countertop. This design catches much attention with its natural mineral look.

How to Clean Quartz Countertops

Choosing a material to use for remodeling your kitchen or bathroom entails several things to be considered such as price, design, durability, and most of all easy to clean and maintain. In line with this, quartz is a good option as your material. In order to make your quartz countertop last longer and stay in its best condition, proper cleaning and maintenance must be observed. Here are some of our tips:   For spilled liquids, place a few drops of diluted vinegar solution on a microfiber. Then wipe it over the countertop surface.   Always use a non-abrasive cloth in cleaning quartz countertops.   You can use a clean paper towel to wipe dry the surface.   Never use bleach or tarnish to clean quartz countertop.   Always a heat resistant pad when placing hot pans on these countertops.

Quartz VS. Granite Countertops

This mineral has always been a great competitor with granite countertops. Like other mineral stones, there are several features to admire from quartz slabs. There are several factors to compare from these two materials and we are going to show you these comparisons below.

Designs and Colors

Quartz is made from 90 to 95 percent natural crushed minerals which are then formed into slabs. Considering it is man-made, the designs and colors can be highly customized and variegated to provide more options for clients. In comparison to granite, quartz countertops have more options for designs, texture and color. Most manufacturers have even incorporated natural designs and textures to make it look natural. Different designs exist to give you a contemporary to a very classical look for your remodeled kitchen and bathroom. This definitely enhances the beauty and value of your home.

Designs and Colors

Quartz is made from 90 to 95 percent natural crushed minerals which are then formed into slabs. Considering it is man-made, the designs and colors can be highly customized and variegated to provide more options for clients. In comparison to granite, quartz countertops have more options for designs, texture and color. Most manufacturers have even incorporated natural designs and textures to make it look natural. Different designs exist to give you a contemporary to a very classical look for your remodeled kitchen and bathroom. This definitely enhances the beauty and value of your home.

Higher Non-Porous Feature

This mineral is made from 90 to 95 percent pulverized minerals combined with 10 to 5 percent cement-based binder resins. The resins enhance the non-porous feature of quartz slabs which is better compared to granite. Consequently, this enables zero application of sealant chemicals on quartz countertops.

Higher Sanitary Function

This feature is strongly linked to the higher non-porous feature of quartz countertops. Because of the resins combined, quartz countertops have higher resistance against any spilled liquids, molds, bacteria, and viruses to penetrate into its pores. Granite still has a good non-porous ability slightly comparable to quartz but you will have to do an annual sealing application to maintain its non-porosity level.

Maintenance

When you own a granite countertop, you need to have frequent and constant maintenance, cleaning, and sealing rituals in order to keep it in its best condition. Granite countertops are very sensitive to oils and acidic solutions for it can reduce its luster and sealant properties. Consequently, you also need to apply sealant chemicals over its surfaces once a year to maintain its sanitary and non-porous feature. In contrast, quartz countertops still need cleaning over its surfaces to keep it shiny and remove all stains and dirt. In terms of applying sealants, you do not need to do it with quartz countertops as its sealant properties are excellent.

Durability

Quartz does not have much heat resistance compared to granite minerals. However, in terms of durability and toughness, it has a better stand compared to granite. This enhanced toughness of quartz is highly attributed to the combined cement-based binder resins with its mineral content. These resins are thoroughly mixed with the minerals to provide a strong hold in its overall structure.

Environment-Friendly

Both granite and quartz have their resources coming from quarrying minerals from natural deposits. However, quartz has a better environment-friendly feature because it can utilize crushed mineral wastes from other quarry sites. This enables the manufacturer to save on inputs and reduce quarrying activities which harm the environment.

Wrap Up

We have come to the last part of our discussion about quartz countertops. Like other mineral options, quartz has several features to admire and gripe about. The main advantage of quartz is the numerous available options for designs and color. These designs can either be random or uniform depending on your preference. Likewise, there is much versatility when it comes to this mineral. It can fit in your countertop, backsplash, over hung, wall hung, and vanity tops. Other features to love about quartz, it has a low-maintenance and cleaning abilities. This can be linked to its high non-porous feature with the resins mixed in producing it. Perhaps, the main setback of this mineral is its price. Its expensive price can be reflected from the quality and beauty it delivers. Hopefully, we have given you enough details and insights regarding quartz slabs and countertops. We have shown you the positive and negative things about it to prevent any biases. Now, you will be more able to gauge and compare if quartz is a great option for beautifying your kitchen and bathroom.

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