Quartz countertops are a type of kitchen countertop made from a combination of natural quartz and synthetic resins. They are known for their durability and resistance to scratches, stains, and heat. They also require less maintenance than natural stone countertops and come in a variety of colors and patterns.

Allure Quartz Alpharetta

What are the advantages and benefits of quartz countertops?

Quartz countertops have several advantages and benefits. Some of the main benefits include:

Durability:

Quartz is a very hard and strong material, making it resistant to scratches, chipping, and staining. Quartz countertops are made of 93-95% natural quartz, one of the hardest minerals on earth. This makes it extremely durable, scratch and heat resistant. They are also highly resistant to chipping and cracking.

Low maintenance: Unlike natural stone, quartz does not require sealing and is easy to clean.
Non-porous: Quartz is non-porous, which means it will not absorb liquids or bacteria. This makes it resistant to stains and bacteria buildup.
Variety of colors and patterns: Quartz can be made in a wide range of colors and patterns, allowing for more design options.
Consistency: Quartz countertops have a consistent pattern and color throughout the material, making it less prone to variations or inconsistencies.
Heat resistant: Quartz is heat resistant and can withstand high temperatures without damage, making it a suitable choice for kitchens.
Resistant to UV rays : Quartz is resistant to UV rays, it won’t fade over time, meaning that you don’t have to worry about your countertops losing their vibrant color or becoming discolored from prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Resistant to chemicals: Quartz countertops are resistant to most chemicals, including common household cleaners and acidic substances such as lemon juice and vinegar. This means that they will not get damaged or discolored easily.

Overall, quartz countertops are known for their durability and resistance to damage, which makes them a great choice for high-traffic areas in the home such as kitchens and bathrooms. They are also known for their low maintenance and easy to clean, which makes them a great choice for busy households.

Best Quartz Countertops near Alpharetta, Georgia

(Quartz offers unique styles and designs not available in natural stone, or heavily engineered countertops)

View All Quartz Countertops Designs and Color Styles by Click Countertops

What are the disadvantages of quartz countertops?

Quartz countertops have several advantages, but there are also some potential disadvantages to consider:

Cost: Quartz countertops can be more expensive than other materials such as laminate or solid surface countertops.
Weight: Quartz is a heavy material, and it requires a sturdy and well-supported cabinet structure to support it.
Not completely natural: Quartz is engineered material and although it has natural quartz in it, it still contains some resins and pigments.
Hard to repair: Damaged quartz countertops can be difficult to repair, and it may be necessary to replace the entire countertop.
Limited repair options: Since quartz countertops are engineered, it’s hard to match the exact color and pattern of the original piece, if a repair is needed, it will be noticeable.
Not heat-proof: Although quartz is heat resistant, it can still be damaged by extremely high temperatures. Avoid placing hot pots and pans directly on the surface and use trivets or heat pads.
Limited edge options: Quartz countertops have limited edge options and can be less customizable than natural stone countertops.

Overall, while quartz countertops are durable, low-maintenance and versatile, they are not without their drawbacks. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons and consider your specific needs and preferences before making a decision.

Is quartz better than granite?

Both quartz and granite are popular choices for countertops, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Quartz is a man-made material made of natural quartz and resin. It is engineered to be consistent in color and pattern, and it is non-porous and resistant to stains, scratches, and heat. It is also low-maintenance and easy to clean.

Granite, on the other hand, is a natural stone that is quarried from the earth. It is unique in pattern and color, and it is heat-resistant and durable. However, it is porous and requires regular sealing to prevent staining.

In terms of durability and maintenance, quartz wins over granite. However, granite has its own unique appeal due to its unique patterns and color variations. If you want a countertop with a natural look, granite would be a better choice. If you prioritize low maintenance, consistency and durability over the natural look, quartz is the way to go.

Ultimately, the choice between granite and quartz will depend on your personal preferences, budget and the specific use of the countertop. Both are great options, and you can’t go wrong with either one.

Is quartz more expensive than granite?

The cost of quartz and granite countertops can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the quality of the material, the thickness of the slab, and the cost of installation. In general, quartz countertops tend to be more expensive than granite countertops.

Quartz countertops are engineered, and the process of manufacturing it is more complex and costlier than extracting granite from a quarry. Additionally, the color and pattern options are more diverse in quartz countertops, resulting in higher costs.

On the other hand, granite is a natural stone that can be found in different varieties and prices, depending on the specific quarry and location of the stone. Some types of granite are more affordable than quartz, while others are more expensive.

However, it is worth noting that prices can vary depending on the location and the supplier. It’s always best to get quotes from multiple suppliers and compare the costs of both materials before making a decision.

In general, while quartz countertops can be more expensive than granite, they offer unique benefits such as consistent pattern and color, non-porousness and low-maintenance. It’s important to weigh the benefits and costs of each material and consider your specific needs and preferences before making a decision.

What is the difference between granite vs quartz?

Granite and quartz are two popular choices for countertops, but they have several key differences:

Material: Granite is a natural stone that is quarried from the earth, while quartz is an engineered material made from natural quartz and resin.
Appearance: Granite has a natural, unique look with variations in pattern and color. Quartz, on the other hand, is engineered to have a consistent pattern and color throughout the material.
Durability: Both granite and quartz are durable materials, but quartz is more resistant to scratches, chipping, and staining.
Maintenance: Granite is porous and requires regular sealing to prevent staining, while quartz is non-porous and requires less maintenance.
Heat resistance: Both materials are heat resistant, but granite can be damaged by high temperatures if a hot pan is placed directly on the surface.
Cost: Quartz countertops tend to be more expensive than granite countertops.
Repairability: Quartz countertops can be difficult to repair and may require replacement, while granite can be repaired more easily.

In summary, granite and quartz are both durable, heat-resistant, and suitable for countertops, but they have different characteristics and benefits. Granite is a natural stone with unique patterns and colors, while quartz is an engineered material that is consistent in color and pattern, and requires less maintenance. Both have their own unique appeal, and the choice between the two would depend on your personal preferences and budget.

Materials That Comprise Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops are engineered materials that are made up of a combination of natural quartz and other materials. The materials that comprise quartz countertops typically include:

Natural quartz: Quartz is a mineral that makes up the majority of the material in a quartz countertop. It is a hard, durable and non-porous material that is resistant to scratches and stains.
Resin: Resin is a binding agent that is used to hold the quartz together and create a solid surface. It also makes the countertop non-porous and resistant to bacteria and staining.
Pigments: Pigments are added to the quartz and resin to create the desired color and pattern for the countertop.
Other materials: Some quartz countertops may also include other materials such as recycled glass, metal flakes, or mirror pieces, to give it a unique appearance.

It’s important to note that the quality of the quartz countertops may vary depending on the percentage of natural quartz used in the composition. In general, countertops with a higher percentage of natural quartz are considered to be higher quality and more durable than those with a lower percentage.

How do you clean quartz countertops?

Cleaning quartz countertops is relatively simple and can be done with just a few basic household products. Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind when cleaning your quartz countertops:

Use mild, non-abrasive cleaning products: Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive scrubbers, or acidic cleaners on your quartz countertops, as they can damage the surface. Instead, use a mild detergent or a specialized quartz cleaner.
Wipe up spills immediately: Quartz is resistant to staining, but it’s still important to wipe up spills as soon as possible to prevent any damage.
Clean with a damp cloth: Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down your countertops, being sure to rinse the cloth or sponge frequently to remove any dirt or grime.
Dry with a soft cloth: After cleaning your countertops, dry them with a soft, dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture and prevent water spots.
Avoid placing hot pans directly on the surface: Quartz is heat-resistant, but it can still be damaged by extremely high temperatures. Use trivets or heat pads to protect your countertops.
Avoid using abrasive cleaners: Abrasive cleaning products or scrubbers can scratch the surface of your quartz countertop. Use mild detergent or a specialized quartz cleaner instead.

Overall, quartz countertops are relatively low-maintenance and easy to clean. By following these guidelines and using the appropriate cleaning products, you can keep your quartz countertops looking like new for years to come.

How do you care for quartz countertops?

Quartz countertops are relatively low-maintenance and easy to care for. Here are a few tips to help you care for your quartz countertops:

Clean spills immediately: Quartz countertops are stain-resistant, but it’s still important to wipe up spills as soon as they happen to prevent any damage.
Use mild cleaning products: Use a mild detergent or specialized quartz cleaner to clean your countertops. Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive scrubbers, or acidic cleaners, as they can damage the surface.
Avoid placing hot pans directly on the surface: Quartz is heat-resistant, but it can still be damaged by extremely high temperatures. Use trivets or heat pads to protect your countertops.
Wipe up any excess moisture: After cleaning your countertops, dry them with a soft, dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture and prevent water spots.
Avoid cutting directly on the surface: Use a cutting board to protect your quartz countertops from knife scratches.
Avoid exposure to extreme heat or cold: Quartz is a durable material but it can be affected by extreme heat or cold. Avoid placing items such as hot pans, hot curling irons, or freezing items on your countertop, as it can cause damage.
Use Coasters: Use coasters under drinks, as acidic liquids such as citrus juices, vinegar, and alcohol can damage the surface.

Overall, Quartz countertops are very durable and require very little maintenance to keep them looking great. By following these simple care tips and avoiding any actions that can damage the surface, your quartz countertops will retain their beauty for many years to come.

How much do quartz countertops cost?

The cost of quartz countertops can vary depending on several factors such as the brand, the color and pattern, and the complexity of the installation. However, on average, quartz countertops can cost anywhere from $50 to $150 per square foot, installed.

Keep in mind that a typical kitchen countertop installation will require about 40 to 60 square feet of material, so the total cost for a basic quartz countertop installation can range from $2,000 to $15,000.

However, costs can vary widely depending on the brand, the color and pattern, and the complexity of the installation. High-end brands, unusual patterns and colors, and complicated installations such as those that include curves or angled edges, can cost significantly more.

It’s also important to note that the cost of the countertops is not the only expense to consider. Other costs, such as the cost of installation, the cost of removing and disposing of old countertops, and the cost of any necessary plumbing or electrical work, should also be taken into account when budgeting for a kitchen remodel.

It’s always a good idea to get quotes from multiple fabricators, and compare the cost, quality, warranty and after-sales service. And get an understanding of what is included in the final quote.

It’s also worth mentioning that, depending on where you live, the cost of labor and materials may vary.

How do you remove stains from quartz countertops?

Quartz countertops are highly stain-resistant, but stains can still occur if spills or substances are left on the surface for an extended period of time. Here are a few tips for removing stains from quartz countertops:

Use a mild cleaning solution: Mix a small amount of mild detergent or specialized quartz cleaner with water to create a cleaning solution. Apply the solution to the stained area and gently scrub with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft cloth.
Use baking soda: Mix a paste of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stained area and gently scrub with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft cloth.
Use hydrogen peroxide: Mix a small amount of hydrogen peroxide with a few drops of ammonia and apply to the stained area. Gently scrub the area with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth and rinse thoroughly with clean water. Dry with a soft cloth.
Use a specialized stain remover: Some manufacturers of quartz countertops offer specialized stain removers for their products. Be sure to use the stain remover recommended by the manufacturer for your specific brand of quartz.
Be aware that some stains are permanent: Some stains, such as those caused by red wine, coffee, and oil-based products, may not be able to be removed completely.

In general, it’s always a good idea to wipe up spills as soon as they happen to prevent them from setting in and becoming more difficult to remove. By following these tips, you should be able to remove most stains from your quartz countertops.

Can you put a hot pan on a quartz countertop?

Quartz countertops are heat-resistant, but it is not recommended to place hot pans directly on the surface. While quartz can withstand high temperatures, prolonged exposure to heat can cause discoloration or damage to the surface.

It is always recommended to use trivets or hot pads when placing hot pans or other heat-generating items on your quartz countertops. These items will help to distribute the heat evenly and prevent damage to the surface of your countertops.

It’s also worth noting that, if you have a quartz countertop that has a high percentage of polymeric resins, it may be more heat sensitive than those with a higher percentage of natural quartz.

You should also avoid placing any items that are hotter than 150°F (65°C) on your countertop.

By taking these precautions, you can help to ensure that your quartz countertops will remain in great condition for many years to come.

History of Quartz Countertops

The history of quartz countertops can be traced back to the 1960s, when the technology for manufacturing engineered stone was first developed. The first company to commercialize the production of quartz countertops was a company called Breton S.p.A, based in Italy. They developed and patented the “Bretonstone” process, which uses a mixture of ground natural quartz and a small amount of polymer resin to create a durable and consistent material.

The first quartz countertops were primarily used in commercial and industrial settings, such as labs and hospitals. However, as the technology and manufacturing processes improved, the use of quartz countertops began to expand into residential kitchens and bathrooms.

In the 1990s, a number of other companies began to enter the market, offering their own versions of engineered quartz. By the early 2000s, quartz had become a popular choice for countertops and other surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms.

Today, quartz is one of the most popular countertop materials on the market, known for its durability, resistance to stains and scratches, and a wide range of colors and patterns. Many manufacturers of quartz countertops are based in Asia, Europe, and America, and offer a variety of brands and options to choose from.

Quartz countertops have also been evolving in terms of design and finish, with more realistic patterns and textures, new and improved finishes and more options to choose from. They have become more affordable and accessible, making them a popular choice for remodeling projects, and new construction.

What are the Major Brands of Quartz Countertops?

There are many brands of quartz countertops available on the market today, each with their own unique features and styles. Some of the major brands include:

Caesarstone: This brand, founded in 1987, is one of the pioneers in the quartz countertop industry. Caesarstone is known for its high-quality products, wide range of colors, and sleek, modern designs.
Cambria: Cambria is an American brand of quartz countertops known for its unique designs and patterns. They have a wide range of colors and patterns, with a focus on natural and organic designs.
Silestone: Silestone is a brand of quartz countertops that is part of the Cosentino group. They offer a wide range of colors and patterns, and are known for their durability and resistance to stains and scratches.
LG Viatera: LG Viatera is a quartz countertop brand known for its wide range of colors and patterns, as well as its durability and resistance to stains and scratches. They also offer a non-porous surface.
Hanstone: Hanstone is a Canadian brand of quartz countertops known for its durability and resistance to stains and scratches. They have a wide range of colors and patterns and are known for their consistency in pattern and color.
Zodiaq: Zodiaq is a brand of quartz countertops produced by DuPont. They offer a wide range of colors and patterns and are known for their durability and resistance to stains and scratches.
Q-Quartz: Q-Quartz is a brand of quartz countertops known for its durability and resistance to stains and scratches. They have a wide range of colors and patterns, and are known for their consistency in pattern and color.
Viatera: Viatera is a brand of quartz countertops that is part of the LG Hausys group. They offer a wide range of colors and patterns, and are known for their durability and resistance to stains and scratches.

These are some of the major brands of quartz countertops available on the market, however, there are many other brands available, each with their own unique features and styles.

Is Quartz an Eco-friendly Countertop Material?

Quartz is an engineered stone, which means it is a man-made product composed of natural materials and a small amount of polymer resin. The manufacturing process of quartz countertops can have some environmental impacts, such as the consumption of energy and water, and the release of emissions and waste. However, it can also have some benefits over natural stone like granite, as the manufacturing process of quartz is more controlled and consistent, and it doesn’t require mining.

Many manufacturers of quartz countertops have implemented environmentally friendly practices in their manufacturing process to reduce their environmental impact, such as recycling water and using renewable energy sources. In addition, many brands of quartz countertops are certified by organizations such as Greenguard, NSF and LEED, which indicate that the products meet certain environmental standards.

Quartz countertops are also known for their durability and resistance to stains and scratches, which can reduce the need for replacement and maintenance over time.

Overall, Quartz is considered as an eco-friendly countertop material. It’s true that it’s not 100% natural, but it’s a durable, low maintenance and long-lasting option with a lower environmental impact than some other types of countertops.

What are Quartz Countertops?