If you’re looking into purchasing granite countertops, chances are you’ve heard about engineered quartz. Are you wondering whether you should consider quartz as an alternative? As with just about anything, there are various reasons you would or would not use quartz as opposed to another type of surfacing material. A major attraction for quartz is its durability. Engineered quartz slabs are manufactured with around 93% pure quartz, depending on the factory. Some brands have the amounts listed on their website, along with technical information regarding hardness scale rating, absorption, chemical reactions, and other rather obscure scientific measurements.
Another important feature is that quartz is non-porous. It won’t absorb any liquid or need any extra sealing, because is is fabricated with a resin directly in the recipe. The methods of compression and curing assure that there are no little cavities to soak up water or spilled food. It’s easy to clean, although you should still avoid acidic spills and abrasive or acidic cleaners. They can put a haze on the surface, and dull your shine. Quartz is scratch resistant, although you can chip it if you use enough force. It’s not a good idea to cut directly on the surface — partly from a very slight possibility of scratching it, and partly because it may damage your knives!
Quartz is very strong, but it is also very heavy. Because it’s so dense, your cabinets will need to be sturdy to support the weight properly. Color definition is limited only by the imagination of the developers for each factory — you can find exotic colors that aren’t in nature, or are at least quite rare. The pattern and flow of each piece will be small and consistent, although there are dye lots to consider if you’re going to use more than one slab.
Although there are many colors on the market, quartz does not have the natural flow and uniquely formed combinations that granite and other natural stone can offer. It offers more control over your final color design in exchange for the striking, free-flowing patterns found in other natural stone. Quartz also cannot offer the same range of finishes available from travertine, marble, or granite, as it is confined to either a polished or honed in nearly every case. Engineered quartz is not appropriate for most floor applications, because it tends to be quite slippery.
Edge finishing options for quartz are basically the same as granite. It is appropriate for many health and food industry applications, and makes a beautiful addition to any kitchen space. Quartz is generally priced in the range of middle to high priced granites, which can also affect your decision. Both natural stone and quartz supporters are working to increase and educate on the green and sustainable qualities of these elegant products.
Major quartz brands and suppliers:
Heidi Blodgett
Schumacher Tile & Stone
December 16th, 2008 at 3:28 pm
I really like natural quartz as well. For some reason the term engineered doesn’t have the same ring as “natural quartz countertops” to me.
December 16th, 2008 at 4:28 pm
Hi, Scott.
Yes, it’s true, the term ‘natural quartz’ can be more appealing. However, it can also tend to create confusion. After all, quartz countertops are usually an engineered quartz that has been ground down, mixed with a resin, and cooked back together. These slabs, while beautiful and very appropriate for most uses, are not in the same category as slabs cut out of the ground, and merely polished and sealed.
I think the confusion comes from the amorphous way the word ‘natural’ can be used. ‘Natural flavor,’ for instance, in a food item, does not mean that the flavor is from the item it ‘naturally’ tastes like. Quartz is naturally occurring in all granite, so where do we draw the line of definition?
You will see the words ‘natural quartz’ in various places on this website and blog from time to time, but for this particular post, I wanted to be very clear.
Thanks for the comment!
November 10th, 2009 at 3:36 am
I agree with previous comment. Engineered quartz doesn’t sound good, because it already seems the stone was modified and is not natural anymore.
February 9th, 2011 at 12:07 pm
Engineered quartz is actually a very valid solution for kitchen counters, and it works perfectly with design. You can make wonders with the available colours.
February 11th, 2011 at 1:15 pm
As I noted in the article, quartz works for nearly any application, excluding outdoors. The colors are constantly being updated and increased, so there are many beautiful choices. Kitchens are a great example of a good place to use quartz, because its hygienic and maintenance properties help you keep your counters clean.
May 26th, 2011 at 1:39 pm
I’m trying to figure out the best material for my new countertop. I currently have tile which is functional but old and ugly. I’ve gotten used to being able to set hot stuff on it and its being very tough. I’ve been concerned about granite being porous and needing special care. It sounds like engineered quarts is a top contender – thanks for the info!
June 30th, 2011 at 7:42 pm
I’m going to remodel my kitchen and am trying to use as many all-natural products as possible. No more formica for me! This looks beautiful, and frankly, I’m tired of granite. I think it will start looking dated soon as it is/was a real big fad.