Comparing quartz slabs to other popular countertop
Your bathroom and kitchen are the most important areas in your house. Have you noticed one similarity between these rooms? Both need countertops installed for different purposes. As you use these countertops regularly, you need to ensure quality construction. So, what materials should you choose for designing your countertop? Many homeowners preferquartz slab as the best countertop material. Find a brief comparison between these countertop materials and pick the right one.
Quartz slab and its qualities
Composite quartz stones have become the most commonly chosen materials for countertop construction. Manufacturers have used unsaturated polyester resins to produce faux quartz.
The biggest reason for investing in quartz countertops is their superb appearance. The best fact is that quartz countertops are customisable. As every quartz slab is quite large, your countertop surface will have only a few joints. Although granite also offers several options for aesthetics, it is easy to select quartz with the right colour scheme. There are several other qualities, which have made quartz an ideal choice.
High durability of quartz slab
Engineered or fake quartz slabs looks like natural stones in terms of patterns and texture. They have a high practical value and are useful for various purposes. So, your quartz worktops are resistant to chipping and other problems. Furthermore, as the stone is non-porous, there is a minimal risk of fungi and mould spores. These microorganisms cannot penetrate into the material, and the countertop will give you lasting value.
An ecological option-
Engineered quartz slabs contain 95 to 97% ground particles. Only 5 to 10% of the composition has pigments and resins. Made of non-toxic elements, quartz is not allergic. The manufacturing process leads to the release of a minimal volatile substance into the environment.
Easy to clean-
Composite quartz is not only harder than granite but also resistant to scratches. You can also remove stains easily to keep the surface clean. The non-porous stone does not have liquid absorption capacity. Moreover, it resists etching and other problems. A simply soapy solution will wipe away stains. There is no need to use stone sealers.
Quartz countertop-Tolerant to heat
A comparatively higher heat resistance is one of the main qualities of the quartz countertop. If you have mistakenly placed your hot pan on the quartz countertop, there is no risk of damage. But, you may find the stone slightly discoloured due to the limited use of resins.
Under-mount sink:
Regardless of the material of your sink, you can install it under the quartz countertop.
Cultured marble versus quartz- Which is a better choice for countertops?
Let us compare these stones and find the right one.
Resilience-
The durability or hardness of custom marble countertops is very high. Pulverised marble minerals are combined well with resin binders. When compared to quartz, marble has lower durability. Still, you can use the stone for your countertop. If you desire a scratch- resistant surface, you can rely on quartz.
Aesthetics-
Custom-designed marble countertops provide a range of colour options. They look like natural marble slabs with bold veins.
If you prefer a finer detail, quartz countertops can be the perfect alternative.
Maintenance and cleaning-
Although cultured marble stones are made artificially, they have a porous surface. You do not need to reseal the stones. With proper installation, marble countertops have a beautiful look.
While cleaning quartz, you can use only a soft microfiber cloth and a soapy solution. Abrasive cleaners are not safe for your stones.
Marble stones also get damaged because of acidic solutions.
Although there are some differences, both stones have an attractive look. During your home remodelling project, you can decide on the better stone for your needs.
Quartz versus granite – Which one is the winner?
Faux granite is an artificially made composite material, which looks like natural stones. Ingredients used for the production of this stone include quartz crystals, crushed stones, acrylics, dyes, and pulverised marble. If you are looking for an alternative to natural granite and marble, you can invest in the faux ones. Similarly, quartz is found in the artificial version.
Granite is available in a range of patterns and colours. Whether you want to use the countertop for your kitchen or bathroom, granite is a suitable option.
Quartz slab also has drawn the attention of several consumers due to its amazing look. No matter what stone you have chosen, you can customise the slabs for a unique design.
Eco-friendliness of the stones is another relevant factor in making comparison.
It needs much energy to obtain natural granite stones. So, you can depend on composite stones to maintain eco-friendliness. But, quartz is also an eco-friendly option for building countertops.
Again, a granite countertop surface needs daily cleaning with water and soap. Acids and oils may cause stains on the surface. It is also essential to reseal the countertop once every year.
On the contrary, a quartz slab also needs cleaning to avoid the effects of spills. Proper maintenance will make your countertop long-lasting.
The best fact is that quartz is more resilient than granite. It is not porous like granite; thus, your countertop will not harbour bacteria.
How will you choose the right materials for your countertop?
To make the best selection, you can focus on-
Design and colour:
Create a style statement with your kitchen countertop. You can choose materials with high elegance.
Shape and size of the materials:
Check every detail ranging from thickness to length of the slab.
Durability:The most durable countertop material will last for years. Choose scratch-resistant material for your kitchen countertop.
Total cost:
The cost of the stone and the installation cost need your attention.
Conclusion
A brief comparison of quartz and other countertop materials will remove your doubts. Quartz is better than other stones for building countertops. Incredible durability, low water absorption rate, thermal shock resistance, and high strength are major reasons for choosing quartz slabs. Depending on the space in your kitchen or bathroom, you can select the stone’s dimension.