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Quartz is a mineral occurring present in many igneous and metamorphic rocks, it is a key constituent of granite pegmatites, and a main component of sandstones. It is made of one of the hardest minerals and is more attractive. A variety of colours are offered to range from fiery red, olive green, earthy tones, cream, and veining that shimmers to match the magnificence of granite or marble. Quartz stones are engineered in factories.
Composition of Quartz Worktops
The composition primarily consists of 94% quartz which is mixed with Polyester resin and pigments to give an attractive looking colour, minor amounts of glass or metallic specks are added to the mix to develop new designs. The resins bind the mix together and also help in making the counters stain and scratch-resistant and nonporous, so they do not require sealing. Natural-quartz crystals are mined and ground into a powder form or an aggregate. It is fused with poly resin binders and pigments that impart colour under intense heat and pressure to form a solid slab.
In the past, the drawback against quartz was the limited number of patterns and colour variations. But the situation has changed with all the manufacturers presenting multi-shaded slabs with enough specks, swirls, and random patterning to make them almost indistinguishable from the natural stone.
They were once available only with a polished finish; now you can get one with a honed, sandblasted, or embossed treatment. Whether you are looking for a leathered limestone, textured slab, or glossy marble, we have a quartz kitchen countertop for you.
Natural Characteristics of Quartz Worktops
Appearance:
Quartz countertops are naturally beautiful. The stunning appearance is determined by the size of granules used in the making process. Using finer granules will result in a steady pattern and appearance. Larger crystals will create a flecked appearance, similar to granite countertops. You can find quartz worktops in the UK that has a wide range of colors ranging from neutral earthy tones to bold vibrant to match your personal taste.
Durability:
Quartz worktops are stronger than granite countertops. They are less susceptible to chipping and cracking due to sharp objects and falling utensils. In addition, quartz is naturally scratch-resistant from normal wear and tear. Quartz is not scratch-proof but scratch-resistant. With mishandling of large sum of weight and force quartz countertop could be damaged
Scratch Marks:
Quartz has the capacity to resist short exposure to heat without causing damage to the work surface. Long periods of heat exposure can cause cracking to occur due to the rapid temperature change. To avoid undesirable consequences, it is recommended to use a hot pad or trivet under a hot pot.
Absorption:
Quartz countertops have a non-porous surface. This means quartz will not absorb water or other kitchen fluids. Being non-porous is the major advantage of quartz counters when compared to other natural stone counter materials.
No Sealing Necessary:
Unlike the Granite countertops which require a sealer after installation and reapplication on a yearly basis to prevent staining. Sealing is not needed for quartz countertops as the surface is non-porous. Quartz is relatively maintenance-free when compared to other countertop materials.
Resistant to Bacteria:
The growth of bacteria occurs when moisture and food remain unattended on the workstation. Quartz is a non-porous material, hence bacteria will not grow on it.
Resistant to Staining:
Quartz counters will not stain from common kitchen liquids, such as coffee, tea, or lemon juice. Natural stone like Granite and other countertop materials will stain easily if proper care and attention are not given to cleaning and sealing.
Types of Textures
Quartz worktops are engineered stone products that can be used in virtually any design application. They are subjected to a texture-defining process resulting in a stunning finish with a pleasing appearance. The different types of finishes are listed below:
Polished Finish:
The most common finish for a quartz slab. The qualities of the stone are highlighted well on a polished surface to make the colours and texture stand out vibrantly. Polished surfaces are easy to clean as they are sealed to keep any liquid from seeping in and moisture out of the stone.
Honed Finish:
The honed finish is also referred to as matte and buffed, this finish creates a smooth-looking surface avoiding shiny reflecting surfaces. The honed finish is a preferred option for flooring preventing the threats of slippery surfaces.
Quartz Remodeling Project
If you’re remodeling your kitchen, you need to choose a theme, depending upon the theme you can choose a vibrantly stunning or mildly elegant white quartz counter
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