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Need to Know About Quartz Countertop
Countertops are a very important install as this is the platform where everything will be placed. In the case of a kitchen, the type of countertop helps decide the color scheme and other aesthetics of the area. As the largest one-piece structure, it plays an important role.
Quartz countertops are one of the popular options in the market and have left the natural stone slabs like granite and marble behind. Let us have a look into quartz countertops, its pros, and cons and what makes it a great fit for you.
Construction
Pros
Low Maintenance
Quartz countertops are very low maintenance and require no special upkeep. As the countertop is engineered it doesn’t need to be sealed, unlike natural stone. As a result, just some soap, water, and a damp cloth are sufficient for daily cleaning. It is advised to avoid the use of scouring pads and harsh chemical cleaners. While the first can dull the surface, the later is known to break down binder bonds between quartz and resin.
Antimicrobial
Natural stone is known to develop molding issues, especially in damp conditions. This is due to its porous structure. Quartz counters are created with a percentage of binder agents like resin. This agent, other than adding to the strength, also helps in making the structure non-porous. This keeps stain and odor inducing bacteria at bay, helps avoid mold and mildew. Other than keeping the hygiene of the house, this also improves the longevity of Quartz countertops.
Design Friendly
Natural stone is very stubborn to work with. It shows signs of chipping and crumbling under immense pressures. As quartz countertops are created under high temperatures and pressure, they can take the abuse. Other cleaner cuts, Quartz counters are very flexible and can be molded into varying shapes like sinks or sides of a curved island. Its versatility makes it a perfect fit to be utilized as floor tiles.
Cons
Expensive
Similar to granite slabs, Quartz countertops are very expensive. The purchase and installation of a quartz counter can cause damage of about 4000-6000 INR per square foot to one’s wallet. Acrylic solid surfacing is an available alternative, but it too is about 3000-6000 INR per square foot for installation.
Poor Heat Resistance
Created under high-temperature conditions, quartz countertops are known to withstand heat and scorching, but up to a limited mark. According to most sellers, quartz counters can handle heat up to 204 deg celsius. Though the tolerance is very high, what affects the countertop is a sudden change. In case the temperature changes rapidly from a hot pan left on the counter then it may lead to surface cracks. It is advised to use a trivet or hot pad on quartz counters.
Not for Outdoors
If one installs quartz counters in an outdoor setting, their warranty is immediately void. Quartz counters are not created to withstand the changes in the outdoors. Constant sunlight will not only fade away the color but also cause warping of the counter which will lead to a split over time. To be safe, manufacturers have a strict quartz countertop for indoors only policy.
Things to Consider Before purchasing Quartz Countertop
Does it make the Budget?
When purchasing a quartz countertop, one cannot compromise on quality. A well-constructed quartz countertop will payback double over the years. However, the initial investment must be hefty. While there are more discounted options available one must buy high-quality quartz counters from DuPont, Silestone, or Cambria for better performance.
Do you move often?
Installing a quartz countertop is a big investment. To get the most out of this investment, you need to stay in your current home for 10 years or more. You get a lot of use from the counter in its peak years. If you sell then a higher sales price may still be able to make up for the investment made on the countertop.
Do you have Children?
Newborns or teenagers, children are messy. If you have kids in the house who spill, then quartz countertops are a better fit for you. Its resin-based structure makes them free of staining and molding more common in granite and marble. It is also a good fit for people who like to host often.
Buying and Installation Guide
Weigh your Options
When approaching quartz countertop purchase, be aware of all the available options. Visit multiple dealers to compare colors and prices. While some of the sellers sell their material via big-box stores other countertops are only available through independent showrooms.
Choose Brand and Colour
Narrow down the brand and color that best suits your needs. Once done, a fabricator can come in and take measurements. They will also create a template of the tops of the base cabinets. If one doesn’t plan on keeping the existing sink fixtures, then the owners must provide dimensions for the sink, faucets, and any other appliance.
Prize Quote
Once the area is analyzed by the fabricator they have an idea of the edge profile, number of slabs, and cut out details. They have an idea of how complex the installation is going to be. Based on that they will quote you the price of the fee. Once negotiated, you can place the order.
Waiting Game
If all the basic installations of your kitchen like base cabinets are finished then the fabricator will take about 1 week to get the slab from the manufacturer and shape it according to the specifications. If you plan on using multiple slabs ask the fabricator to procure them all from the same brand. This helps keep the properties and look consistent.
Schedule Installation
The fabricator places the quartz counter atop the cabinets. No plywood is required in this process and it is kept in place using silicone-based construction adhesive. Anny visible seams between slabs are filled using color-matched epoxy resin. Once all the materials are in place, installation can take from an hour to a day.
Cleaning, Care, and Repair
Due to the resin-based property of quartz countertops, they are very easy to clean. As mentioned above they require little to no maintenance and can be cleaned with just soapy water and a damp rag. However, the following are some tips to keep in mind when it comes to quartz countertop care.
- Acid-based spills like ketchup, lemon juice, wine, coffee, etc must be wiped within minutes.
- Damp clothes and the mild cleaner must be used for tough to remove stains.
- Quartz specific cleaners must be used. Harsh cleaners will destroy resin bonds and damage integrity.
- Don’t overuse dish soap as it will dull the luster of the slab.
- Quartz is very durable but prone to simple scratches. It is advised to cut on other surfaces or use a cutting board.
- A hot pad or trivets must be used to avoid temperature damage.
Quartz Countertop – Conclusion
We have looked into all the aspects of what makes quartz countertops a good purchase. Though an engineered product created for durability, quartz countertops are known for the beautiful patterns and colors that bring a room together. These countertops are not a purchase, but an investment that keeps on showing consistent returns.
