You may think you know everything about Quartz countertops and Quartz installers, but there are so many facts hidden beneath the surface. Before you buy these countertops for your home, here are some interesting things you deserve to know:
- Quartz counters are not exactly made of quartz
Since the same say its Quartz countertops, you would believe that they are made of Quartz but that’s not how it goes. Yes, there is some bit of Quartz but in combination with other materials. These countertops also contain a binder like cement or resin, marble, ceramic, granite, silica and even glass.
- All quartz countertops are basically supplied by a single source
An Italian company called Breton developed Bretonstone in 1963. The Bretonstone technology was licensed to 52 companies across the world. So basically, the supply comes from Breton and big brands like Silestone and Cambria add their own touches to create Quartz countertops.
- Quartz is not just a countertop material
Quartz is not just used in making countertops, but also floors. Yes, it is slabbed out in floors of shopping malls, airports, and even Prada. In fact, Quartz was originally used in floor tiles, the countertop application came years later. You can even ask about it from one of your Quartz installers.
- Quartz doesn’t require extra maintenance
The best thing about Quartz is it doesn’t demand extra maintenance. You will even hear the Quartz countertop contractors brag about it. No special cleaning products are required to clean it either. All you need is a cloth and water. In case you are worried about hygiene, just use a mild detergent to clean the countertops. If you really want to use a cleaner, it is recommended to use only those that are specially meant for Quartz.
- Quartz is different from Granite
Quartz and Granite both are stones but they are different from one another. The polymers and resins added in Quartz countertops make them nonporous and impervious to stains. Granite, on the other hand, is 100 percent natural and it is very porous. Hence why it can develop stains very quickly. If you ask the Quartz installers which material is best for kitchen countertops, they will say its Quartz because it doesn’t stain or chip like Granite.
- Quartz is the second most abundant mineral on Earth
Quartz is present in abundance on the crust of the Earth. Unlike other minerals, it is not mined in specific locations on the Earth.
- It’s eco-friendly
Engineered Quartz is quite eco-friendly. Why, you ask? It is made from a variety of waste products and minerals that are mixed with polymer. Since recycled materials are used, the production of Quartz utilizes less energy.
- Quartz and Quartzite are two different materials
When shopping for countertop materials, you will come across Quartzite too, which many would think as Quartz but is not. They are only similar in name they don’t have any other quality in common. Quartzite is a naturally occurring mineral that can be cut into slabs, polished and used for countertops. Since it is a natural stone, it does not need engineering like Quartz. The only advantage of Quartzite over Quartz countertops is they are heat resistant. Both have their own perks and it majorly depends on your lifestyle when it comes to choosing between the two. It is recommended to discuss your choices with the Quartz countertop contractors before picking the material.
- Quartz is easy to customize
It is very easy to customize. Unlike any other mineral, it can be manufactured in different shapes and sizes to fit any type of kitchen.
- It can be used in bathrooms too
Quartz is not just used for making kitchen countertops, it can also be used in bathrooms. It is naturally water-resistant and you don’t have to seal it. It is easy to maintain and it is mold-resistant. Even the smudges of the fingers are easy to wipe off. So, if you want to use it for your bathroom surface, Quartz is a great choice.
Quartz surly is one of the highly popular choices when it comes to kitchen countertops. It is even taking over the market share of Granite. No wonder why Quartz countertop contractors rockville md are being hired every other day by homeowners.