When looking for new worktops, you'll discover that granite, laminate, and quartz are some of the most well-liked choices. Moreover, quartz is typically the most expensive of the three and frequently by a wide margin. Quartz is more expensive than other materials, but is it worth the extra cost? This article will tell you all you need to know about quartz countertops, including whether or not they are worth the money for your kitchen design.
What is Quartz?
Quartz is a man-made stone, even though many believe it is a natural substance. Real rock and mineral fragments are combined with glue, polymers, and colors to form a slab. Quartz worktops frequently have a shine created by mixing tiny pieces of glass or metal with the rock particles. Thus, even if the slab contains many natural components, the finished product is mainly man-made.
Durability
The near indestructibility of quartz makes it one of the most desirable building materials for homes. When it was first developed in the 1960s, the intention was to create a substance that would be more durable than stone. It is non-porous since it was created through engineering, not mining, making it impossible for anything to penetrate the surface. It is consequently highly stain-resistant and hygienic as a material for food preparation.
Quartz worktops can be cracked or chipped, although it's much more complex than other countertop materials. This makes it an excellent choice for families, individuals who host frequently, or anyone who spends a lot of time in the kitchen.
Installation
It is entirely feasible to install a quartz countertop yourself with a little bit of knowledge. However, due to the object's weight, more than one person and possibly specialized equipment will probably be needed to move it. It is very advised to hire a professional to cut the slabs if you must.
Similarly, if you are not experienced or confident in your DIY abilities, you should strongly consider hiring a contractor to complete the installation. Yes, it will raise the initial costs. However, by outsourcing the job, you will have the additional peace of mind that no damage will be done, avoiding any further costly repairs down the road. Of course, installation costs will vary depending on the size of your kitchen, the edge treatment you choose, and whether or not any leveling is required before installing the counters.
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Maintenance
Despite their splendid appearance, quartz countertops require very little maintenance. Unlike natural stones like marble and granite, quartz must not be sealed or waxed to prevent stains and mildew. To keep quartz looking its best, regularly wipe it down with a non-abrasive countertop cleaner (a simple solution of mild soap and warm water works best).
Quartz requires minimal maintenance, requiring only some common sense precautions like avoiding hot cookware on its surface. This reduces the need for specialized cleaning supplies and the amount of time spent scrubbing to keep your kitchen clean.
Appearance
One thing that makes quartz such a popular countertop material is its glittering appearance. There are quartz countertops that, despite being man-made, replicate the striations and veining of rocks like granite and marble, giving you the same elegant look without requiring any additional maintenance that natural materials do. There are also several quartz alternatives with one consistent tint if you desire a more sleek, modern appearance.
Since it comes in various colors, there is a quartz countertop to match every design aesthetic, from the contemporary Scandinavian to the classic farmhouse appearance. Quartz worktops are a wonderfully versatile design option for any kitchen because they work well with a wide variety of materials, from solid wood to stainless steel.
Conclusion
Quartz countertops may cost more than granite, solid surface, or laminate worktops. Still, they are worth spending the extra money on because of their unmatched durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal to your bespoke kitchen. A quartz countertop can last you a lifetime and requires very little upkeep, and is simple to clean, thus saving you a tonne of time and money.
A quartz countertop is a good option for your home kitchen renovation since it strikes the ideal balance between function and style. Please contact Noyeks Newmans if you're looking for kitchen cabinets or countertops in Dublin; we'd be pleased to assist you!