professional quartz suppliers of quartz slabs and customized quartz countertops

Understanding the Origins of Quartz: Natural Stone or Man-Made?

Quartz countertops are popular for their durability and beauty, but there's confusion about whether they're natural or man-made. While quartz is a natural mineral, "quartz" countertops are actually engineered by mixing crushed quartz with resins and pigments. This makes them highly durable and customizable. In contrast, "quartzite" countertops are the true natural stone, formed from sandstone under heat and pressure. Engineered quartz differs from natural stones like granite or marble in both composition and production.

The Manufacturing Process of Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops are engineered through a process that mixes approximately 90-95% ground natural quartz with 5-10% resins, polymers, and pigments. This mixture produces a hard, granite-like surface with the following steps:

1. Raw Material Gathering: Manufacturers start by selecting high-quality natural quartz crystals.
2. Crushing: These crystals are then crushed into a fine dust.
3. Blending: The dust is combined with resin binders under intense heat and pressure to form a solid slab.
4. Coloring: Pigments are added during the mixing process to achieve a wide range of colors.
5. Molding: The mixture is then shaped into slabs of the desired thickness.
6. Curing: The slabs are moved to a curing oven where they finish hardening.
7. Polishing: Once cured, the surfaces are polished to create a smooth finish, ready for the consumer to use.

Comparing Engineered Quartz to Quartzite and Other Countertop Materials

Since quartz countertops are engineered from crushed quartz, resin, and pigments, this differentiates them from natural stone slabs like quartzite, granite and marble that are quarried in large pieces. Quartz surpasses natural stone in uniformity of color and pattern, also it's non-porous surface resists stains and bacteria better than natural stones or laminates. In contrast with solid surfaces like Corian, quartz offers a more stone-like appearance and greater durability. However, quartz is typically more expensive than porcelain, laminate or tile but can most often be more cost-effective than high-end granite or marble, considering its longevity and low maintenance needs. Stainless steel countertops are another alternative, praised for their modern look and hygienic qualities, but quartz offers a broader range of design options and a warmer touch.

The Benefits and Considerations of Choosing Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops offer a plethora of advantages:

• Durability: They are incredibly strong, resisting scratches and stains.
• Low Maintenance: Non-porous surfaces negate the need for sealing, unlike natural stone.
• Design Options: A vast array of colors and patterns are achievable, whereas natural stone options, such as quartzite, are limited.
• Uniformity: The manufacturing process ensures consistent color and pattern.
• Hygiene: Their non-porous nature makes them resistant to bacteria and mold growth.

However, consider the following:

• Heat Sensitivity: Prolonged exposure to high heat can damage the surface. Other countertops are more suitable to withstand higher temperatures.
• Cost: Quartz can be more expensive than some natural stone options, depending on the stones rarity and the quality behind it.
• Less Natural Look: For those seeking the unique variances and luxury feel of having natural stone within their home, quartz may appear too uniform.
• UV Sensitivity: Direct sunlight over time can cause colors to fade.

Where Else Does Quartz Make Sense to Be Used in Our Homes?

                                                                                                5129Paonazzo Awake
 

If you're thinking the numerous advantages that Quartz countertops offer outweigh the extra cost and maintenance of a natural stone, then here are a few practical ways to style it around the rest of your home remodel. It serves various uses, such as:

• Backsplashes: Its vast color range and patterns make quartz an attractive option for kitchen or bathrooom backsplashes, complementing other design elements.
• Furniture: It is also used for tabletops and decorative accents, providing a touch of elegance.

Does Quartz seem like the right call to make? We'd love to discuss and give any further input to help you decide, or if you're ready, contact us at sales@goldtopstone to get started!
Goldtop Quartz is is a professional quartz suppliers of quartz slabs wholesaler and customized quartz countertops.