Quartz Countertops in Albany — Pros and Cons
Updated by Linda T · April 5, 2021Quartz countertops are a fashionable option in modern kitchen, and bathroom given their wonderful appearance and other functional advantages. Quartz Countertops: Engineered using ground quartz combined with resins, polymers and pigments, quartz countertops are made of perhaps the hardest mineral on Earth. Quartz is one of the few materials that can be formed in a rainbow of colors so the design possibilities are endless, but as with any material, there are pros and cons. In this article, we examine the advantages and disadvantages of quartz countertops to help homeowners weigh their options white veined granite.
Pros of Quartz Countertops
Durability: Maintenance Free Quartz Soy countertops to be Seamless From stain and scratch resistance to hygiene upgrade for all zones where use of contact with food. The aircraft grade aluminum is pretty strong and holds up really well against scratches, chips, and scuffs. Quartz is rated a 7 out of 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that it is one of the hardest countertops materials available.
They are easy maintenance: quartz countertops are non-porous so they do not need to be sealed like natural stone does. This makes them stain and bacteria resistant and hence very easy to clean and maintain — all you need to clean them every day is a damp cloth replete with a mild detergent.
Uniform Look: As quartz is man-made, it has a more consistent appearance than natural stones. The uniform nature of its patterning means it is easier for homeowners to shop for colors and patterns that will match their home decor with much greater consistency than variance in granite or marble materials.
Variety of Colors and Design — The way quartz countertops are made can accommodate a wide selection of colors and patterns resembling the looks of granite, marble, soapstone and even concrete. These qualities mean quartz is ideal for most home designs, from classic to contemporary.
Cons of Quartz Countertops
Quartz Countertops Are Heat Sensitive: While almost as strong as concrete, quartz countertops may just scorch from heat. Exposure to hot pots and pans will lead to your countertop discoloration and cracking over time. Use trivets & hot pads to protect the surface.
Easily Damaged by Sunlight: Quartz is sensitive to sunlight, and if installed in an area of direct sunlight, it can dull and fade. In a kitchen with plenty of light, and especially an outdoor kitchen, UV rays can yellow the resins in quartz.
Price: Quartz countertops tend to be more expensive than some kinds of granite, tile, or laminate. While the prices can range depending on the quality and design, they are generally a high-end countertop material.
Quartz is Heavy: Quartz is denser and heavier than materials like granite and it may require additional structural support in some applications, such as when it is used in a large "agile" sized span crafted out of stone.
It takes a good amount of resources to make these countertops (which is a big concern for environmentally conscious home owners), but steps have been taken to combat the environmental impact and make these countertops a bit easier on mother earth, fortunately. Still, some brands are integrating more sustainable methods.
Read about the pros and cons to using quartz in your home for more in-depth analysis.
Conclusion
Expensive or not, good quality or not, quartz countertops are typically both a beautiful, versatile and low maintenance product which makes it a favorite choice among homeowners. Nevertheless, factors such as heat sensitivity, UV exposure, weight, cost, and impact on the environment must be considered. A detailed understanding of the benefits and drawbacks of each type of material will assist homeowners in selecting the countertop that matches their lifestyle and budget the best.