It’s no wonder so many homeowners choose quartz countertops for their kitchen remodel. Quartz has a long list of benefits that make it worth the investment. Are you still on the fence about quartz countertops for your kitchen, or wondering how they would work with your cabinets?
In this article, we go through the main benefits so you can see how quartz adds function and beauty to your home.
A wide range of quartz countertop colors
Because this stone is engineered, manufacturers can control its color. That means quartz comes in a very wide range of shades, including beige, black, white, blue, brown and more. With that much choice, it is easy to find one that fits your kitchen theme and your cabinets.
For instance, if you want a modern kitchen look, you can go for quartz countertops in a light tone. Off-white is a good choice for modern kitchens, and there are many variations on it, from plain soft whites to whites with subtle, marble-style veining.
That versatility in color is a big part of why quartz is in demand among homeowners and remodelers.
Very strong
Natural quartz is a hard mineral, and engineered quartz slabs are made mostly from it. In everyday use they hold up as well as granite, and often better. They resist scratches and dents from normal daily kitchen work, which makes engineered quartz a winner for most homeowners.
When it comes to kitchen countertops, you want a durable material that can stand up to knives, pots and heavy use. A quartz kitchen countertop does that, and with reasonable care it can serve you for many years.
Resists stains and moisture
Quartz slabs are made of crushed minerals bonded together with polymer resins. The resin fills the gaps between the mineral particles, leaving a non-porous surface that is highly resistant to moisture and stains. Liquids stay on the surface instead of soaking in.
That makes quartz a practical addition to almost any kitchen remodeling plan. When something spills on your countertop, you have time to wipe it up before it leaves a mark.
You can also choose dark-colored quartz to help hide any light marks on your kitchen countertop. That said, white and light-toned quartz resists stains just as well as black quartz countertops do.
Consistent design
You can expect consistent designs and patterns from engineered quartz. Compared to natural marble and granite, the veining patterns of quartz are finer, and the color is more uniform from slab to slab. This makes quartz a great option for modern homes, since it is easier to find a slab that matches your kitchen cabinets.
That consistency opens up plenty of design ideas. For instance, if you want a two-toned kitchen, you can pair white cabinets with black quartz countertops, or go for other dark palettes like brown and navy blue. You could also paint your kitchen cabinets to match the countertop you have chosen.
The consistent patterns on quartz slabs also make seams less noticeable. When two slabs need to be joined on your kitchen countertop, it is much easier to line up the pattern than it is with heavily veined natural stone.
They mimic the beauty of natural stone
Would you like a countertop that looks like granite or marble without being porous? Quartz is a good answer. Manufacturers of this engineered stone have found ways to reproduce the look of natural stones in quartz slabs, so you get to enjoy the look of marble or granite with far less worry about stains.
That is a large part of why engineered quartz has become so popular with remodelers and homeowners. Imagine having a granite-look countertop that does not need periodic resealing.
It’s a real advantage for homeowners planning to install white quartz kitchen countertops with a marble look.
Reliable quality
Engineered quartz is produced by a number of established manufacturers, and because it is made under controlled conditions, slabs are consistent in thickness, color and finish. That makes quality easier to judge than with natural stone, where every slab is different.
Ask what coverage the manufacturer offers on a slab and read the terms before you buy. Comparing a few options in person is a worthwhile step when planning a kitchen remodel.
Easy to clean and maintain
Quartz is more resistant to stains and spills than granite and marble, which makes it easy to maintain. A microfiber cloth with a little dish soap and water is all you need for everyday cleaning of the countertop and the area around the sink.
You also don’t have to seal a quartz countertop every year, since it is non-porous. That’s because of the polymer resin binders mixed into the stone. If you want less work when cleaning, quartz is a great help.
If a mark does stick, a pH-neutral stone cleaner and a microfiber cloth will usually lift it. Small chips on the edges can often be repaired with a color-matched stone adhesive, or you can call a professional to fix them. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive pads when you disinfect, and keep hot pans on trivets, because the resin in quartz can be damaged by high heat.
They add value to your home
Why are you renovating your kitchen? Is it because you plan to sell your property soon? Whether you’re selling or staying, improving the heart of your home is worthwhile, and you want the money you spend to count. So choose a material that adds beauty and function to your kitchen.
Quartz is an excellent choice on both counts. New countertops in a durable, well-liked material are an upgrade that buyers notice, although how much of the cost you recover at resale depends on your home and your local market.
Moreover, when prospective buyers see recent improvements, it gives them the impression that the property has been well taken care of, which can make your house easier to sell.