If you are like many homeowners in Utah, your countertop will be one of the most prominent parts of your kitchen, not just regarding overall look, but also regarding utility. Therefore, you’d like to make sure that it’s made of a material that fits your desired look and purpose. Quartz is one of the most popular materials for countertops, but it may not be for everyone. Before you decide to invest in it, you’d want to be familiar with what it’s good for and what it isn’t, and what you can do with it.
Quartz, a naturally occurring mineral, is one of the hardest materials on the planet. Although quartz countertops are not made from pure quartz – they are engineered by binding ground quartz, metal, glass, and pigment using resin – they are nevertheless sturdy enough to withstand the daily demands of the average kitchen.
Should you want to buy quartz countertops, Murray and other cities in Utah are home to vendors offering fine selections. But before you decide, ask yourself this: is it the right material for you?
Pros of a quartz countertop
If you are looking for an attractive countertop, you can’t go wrong with quartz. It comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns that are more consistent than what you will find in natural stones, such as marble, and which suit almost any kitchen design. Because it is engineered, its seams are also much easier to match during installation.
Quartz is a non-porous material, which means cleaning it is as easy as wiping its surface with mild soap and water. The absence of pores also makes it less likely to harbor molds and disease-causing bacteria, as well as retain bad odors. A quartz countertop is also a great investment as it can increase your home’s resale value.
Cons of a quartz countertop
The very first factor that’ll hold you back from choosing quartz is its price tag. Although it’s not as pricy as other countertop materials, such as marble, it can be more costly than other materials that offer almost the same functionality, such as aluminum. Moreover, quartz is a heavy material, so installing it yourself could be very dangerous. The price of professional installation will add to your overall costs.
Quartz tolerates heat better than marble – some manufacturers say their product can handle up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit – but its surface may crack when exposed to sudden temperature changes. Because of this, it’s a great idea to always trivets to prevent direct contact between hot pots and the countertop’s surface.
If you’re planning an outdoor kitchen or yours is one that lets in a lot of sunlight, quartz may not be the material for you. Constant exposure to the sun causes the material’s color to fade and even take on a yellowish hue. Outdoor-compatible models may appear in the future though.
Quartz makes for durable, beautiful, and low-maintenance countertops, but it’s not ideal for all types of kitchens. If you have the budget for it and your kitchen is well-lit but not exposed to too much sunlight, then do choose quartz and enjoy its many benefits.
