Quartz Countertops Pros and Cons List

There are many reasons that people want to remodel their kitchens. It may be that you are moving and want to increase the value of your property, or that your kitchen is dated and needs a face lift, or even that you are just looking for something new for your house. When it comes to remodeling a kitchen, replacing your countertops cannot only increase the value of your property, but can give your kitchen a whole new look. When replacing your countertops, it is best to know what materials are good for your kitchen and what you should stay away from.

What Are the Pros of Quartz Countertops?

1. It Is Natural
While quartz is a naturally occurring material, it can also be manufactured or engineered. In doing so, this eliminates flaws however it can bring up the price.

2. Larger Choice Selection
Manufactured versions of quartz allows for a larger variety of colors and styles for your countertops. While materials like granite and slate are often used in kitchens, they don’t offer the same variety of colors that quartz does.

3. More Modern Appeal
The finished surface of a quartz countertop varies greatly from those of granite and slate. There is a much glassier and clean look to a finished quartz countertop and the variety of colors ensures a unique look every time.

4. Added Strength and Durability
Quartz countertops are as strong as concrete style countertops but with much more beauty. Unlike concrete and slate, however, it is more resilient to being chipped or cracked if something falls on it or it is hit heavily with an object.

5. Easy Maintenance
While granite and slate are porous, even after finishing, quartz offers a non-porous finish which minimizes and eliminates stains and rust accumulating on your countertops. It helps keep the surface clear of built up germs and grime and allows for an easier clean.

6. Made to Last
Unlike granite and slate which can chip and show wear and tear over time which may need resurfacing and sealing, quartz countertops are resilient and unless affected by extreme heat, should not need to be resurfaced.

What Are the Cons of Quartz Countertops?

1. Costlier Than Other Materials
Since quartz countertops are made from manufactured materials, the cost of these countertops is usually higher than most other materials.

2. Options Come At a Price
Whereas most countertops are around $65 per square foot, expect to pay around $140 or more per square foot of quartz. If you are looking for an or a unique color, expect to see that number jump to around $200 per square foot.

3. Limitations with Design
While quartz countertops are absolutely beautiful, they have a more contemporary look, which may not be right for all styles of homes or kitchens. Remember that if the kitchen doesn’t match the rest of the house when it comes time to sell, it may hurt your asking price no matter how much you paid.

4. Lacks Perfection
Unlike slab and cut stone, engineered countertops like quartz can often show seam lines where the slabs were blended together. This can be unsightly for some. Darker colors hide the seam better than off colors or light colors.

5. Not Heat Resistant
Unlike granite or marble, quartz is not as resilient to heat. Putting very hot pots, pans and dishes on the top can cause crackling under the surface which can show through or damage your countertops. It is best to put a barrier, like a towel or pot holder, between the hot dish and the countertop.

6. Lacks Blending of Colors
If you are looking for a blend of colors, quartz might not be the best choice. Since it is engineered, it should have a uniform color. Granite, slate and marble often offer a variety of shades in the same slab.

7. May Be Difficult to Clean
Using harsh cleaners, such as rust removers, can damage the surface of the countertop. When cleaning it is best to use a cleaner like Mr. Clean which is approved for all surface types. If you aren’t sure, check the label. There should be a list of approved surfaces on each bottle.

The Rise of Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops are becoming one of the most popular choices for replacements of the countertop surface. While quartz countertops have not been around for a very long period of time, more and more people are coming to understand the beauty and benefit of using quartz in their countertops. Many people are appreciating the beauty that they bring, their resilience and durability, and their strength over regular stone style countertops. Another name for a quartz based countertop is an “engineered countertop

Quartz is one of the strongest materials in the world and is second only to the diamond (even when manufactured). It is one of the top three most abundantly naturally found materials. It is a compound of stone, but with more properties. Quartz countertops are roughly 90 percent quartz, with about 5 percent being made up of color and 5 percent being made up of resin.

Before you reach for the quartz countertops, it is best to learn about some of the pros and cons to this version of the countertop. With more knowledge on hand you can be better prepared when picking out the right style and material of countertop for your kitchen.

What Will You Decide?

Once you consider all the pros and cons, you can make a more informed decision about the type of countertop you want. By knowing the wonderful pros that come with these style of countertops as well as the drawbacks, you can make a decision that you are comfortable with and not regret down the road. Always keep in mind what your personal preferences are over what someone else might try to get you to install or purchase, but also keep in mind what you can feasibly do as well.