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Quartz

The Science Behind Quartz Countertops: Understanding its Composition and Manufacturing Process

Quartz is a favorite material for countertops—and for good reason. It’s more durable than concrete while being stronger, more crack-resistant, and lighter than granite. But it isn’t technically a natural stone; instead, it’s classified as an engineered stone because of its unique composition.

If you’re interested in understanding the manufacturing process and composition of quartz, then you’re in luck. We’ve compiled the information you want to know below so you can be as knowledgeable about quartz as possible.

Quartz Is an Engineered Stone

Quartz is not classified as a natural stone; it’s engineered. This doesn’t mean that it is lower quality than a natural stone or anything like that. The reason quartz is classified as an engineered stone is that its composition tends to be around 90 percent ground quartz and 8 to 10 percent resins, polymers, and pigments.

These resin, polymer, and pigment additives are to seal the natural pores of ground quartz—which is a porous stone. Because these additives seal the pores, countertop quartz is nonporous. This is great for kitchen and bathroom countertops, as quartz’s nonporous surfaces make it bacteria and liquid resistant.

Quartz Manufacturing Process

Quartz starts with ground quartz mined from quarries, which are largely located in Spain and the USA. This ground quartz is sent to manufacturers, who take the quartz—a naturally porous stone—and then fill it in with polymers, resins, and pigments, which seal the stone’s pores and holes. Then this engineered quartz is sent to companies for installation—like us.

Benefits of Quartz’s Composition

The benefits of quartz’s unique composition are many. For one, the mix of resin and natural stone makes quartz lighter than other natural stones, like granite. Also, because the resins and polymers seal the quartz, it is practically impervious to bacteria and liquids.

Engineered quartz can also last for as long as you need it to. The resins and polymers are engineered to never fade, and the natural portion of quartz is near indestructible. Theoretically, quartz countertops could last forever.

Also, quartz countertops are very scratch resistant—but not scratch proof—and rarely chip. Quartz doesn’t need sealant because the polymers and resins make it nonporous. Since liquids can’t penetrate, quartz can’t stain.

Things to Look Out For with Quartz

There are some things about quartz’s manufacturing process to keep in mind. Despite all engineered quartz’s benefits, it does have some weaknesses.

For one, quartz countertops are not heat resistant, so do not put hot pans or other objects on them. Natural quartz is heat resistant, but the added polymers, resins, and pigments can burn and leave marks. Also, never put quartz outside. The resins will discolor and turn yellow under prolonged sunlight and weather exposure.

Finally, quartz can be more difficult to repair because of its manmade finish. This resin polish can be hard to recreate on repair jobs, and quartz will often show repairs more than other stones.

Quartz and You

Now that you know everything you need to know about quartz’s composition and manufacturing process, you can get some installed!

GranitePro is the premier countertop company in Maryland, so be sure to check out our website or get a free countertop estimate.

Granite vs. Quartz: Comparing Two Popular Countertop Materials

In terms of countertop materials, homeowners frequently gravitate toward one of two popular choices: granite or quartz. These two materials both offer durability, beauty, and functionality, but there are a handful of key differences that set them apart.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into the characteristics of granite and quartz countertops, comparing their attributes, strengths, and everything else so you can make an informed decision about your next countertop project.

Whether you prefer natural elegance or desire a low-maintenance surface, understanding the distinctions between granite and quartz will guide you in selecting the ideal countertop material that suits your style and preferences.

Advantages of Granite Countertops

Granite countertops have long been celebrated for their natural beauty and impeccable durability. Because of this, granite is consistently one of the most popular choices for countertop materials among homeowners. One of granite’s major advantages is clearly evident just by looking at a slab—its aesthetic appeal is truly remarkable. Each slab is unique, showcasing a mesmerizing blend of colors and patterns that can enhance the visual appeal of any space.

In addition to its stunning appearance, granite countertops are also highly durable and resistant to heat, scratches, and stains. For these reasons, granite is an ideal material for busy kitchens that endure heavy daily use. And with proper sealing and maintenance, granite can withstand the tests of time, ensuring long-lasting beauty and functionality.

If you like breathtaking slabs and one-of-a-kind patterns and colors, then granite might be the countertop material for you. Granite’s exquisite beauty and resilience work together to make granite countertops a timeless and reliable choice for any home.

Advantages of Quartz Countertops

In recent years, quartz countertops have gained immense popularity—and for good reason. Quartz’s primary attribute is its durability. Composed of mostly natural quartz crystals combined with resin and pigments, quartz countertops are highly resistant to scratches, stains, and impact damage. This makes quartz an excellent choice for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

Unlike natural stone options (like granite, marble, and others), quartz countertops are engineered, meaning homeowners can browse a much wider range of color and pattern options. This versatility enables homeowners to find a perfect match that aligns with their design preferences, whether it’s a subtle, neutral tone or a bolder, more striking theme.

Quartz is also low maintenance, which can be really appealing to busy homeowners. Unlike natural stones, quartz does not require sealing and can be easily cleaned with mild soap and warm water. It’s also resistant to fading and does not require polishing or reconditioning over time.

Which Material Is Right for You?

Now that you’ve explored some of the distinguishing features of granite and quartz countertops, it’s time to make an informed decision for your next remodeling or renovation project. If you’re leaning toward the timeless beauty of granite or the versatility and low-maintenance requirements of quartz, contact us today!

With unrivaled expertise in countertop installation and a wide selection of high-quality materials, GranitePro Remodeling’s professionals can help bring your vision to life!

Picking The Right Outdoor Kitchen Countertop

Backyard grilling has never been the same since kitchens were moved outdoors. This brings us to one of our favorite items in an outdoor kitchen – countertops. When it comes to outdoor kitchens, this is one item that might not always stand out like a showy mantelpiece, but if it isn’t there, the room is quite incomplete, wouldn’t you agree?

When done right, it is not just functional but can become the focal point of your kitchen. So, when it’s such an intrinsic part of your indoor kitchen, there’s really no reason why you shouldn’t include it in your outdoor kitchen as well.

Having a countertop lets you prep, cook, and even eat your meals outdoors, but you need to put some thought into what you need before just selecting one. We help you choose the best material for your outdoor kitchen countertop.

Best Outdoor Kitchen Countertops Compared

Quartz: Given that quartz resists staining and doesn’t need sealing, polish, or buffing, One would think an engineered stone  would be an ideal and logical choice for an outdoor kitchen.

Quartz is non-porous, extremely sturdy, requires minimum maintenance, and can handle spills, scratches, and stains when the proper cleaning care is maintained. Even better, it comes in various colors, which are quite uniform in pattern and texture compared to other natural stones.

Unfortunately, Quartz countertops are sensitive to UV rays and extreme temperatures, making it a poor choice for outdoor kitchens.

Granite: This is still one of the most popular options for indoor kitchens. But when you consider that it’s stain, heat, scratch, and cut resistant, it’s easy to see where the appeal lies and why many people opt for granite for their outdoor kitchen. While it does work for outdoor kitchens, remember that granite differs in hardness and porosity.

You also need to be sure to reseal your granite every year, especially if it is used in an outdoor kitchen. As for colors, granite might have differences in patterns and appearances, as it is a natural stone. So while it’s not easy to get granite that looks absolutely consistent, the character of each slab makes it unique and stunning.

To get it to look as consistent as possible, pick granite slabs that are taken from the same quarry. Working with a granite countertop fabrication company that specializes in outdoor countertops can save you a lot of time and money by helping you choose the right type of granite that will properly withstand the elements.

Some stones may deteriorate in the sun’s UV rays or formulate different forms of stains such as rust or elemental stains.

Marble: As far as aesthetics go, marble is classic and timeless, and you’d be hard pressed to find a better-looking material. But it’s not the most versatile or hardy of stones, so an outdoor kitchen that is open to the elements or used roughly might not be the right space for marble.

Apart from being a softer material, marble is more prone to scratches, dents, stains, etching, and heat, if not cared for properly. You can put this down to the fact that marble is calcium carbonate.

When any acidic items like tomato, wine, or lime juice fall on it, it eats into it, leaving behind a haze or etching, an issue that you don’t have to worry about with other natural stones. 

Soapstone: Heat and stain-resistant, soapstone brings to mind a rustic, charming appeal that only this muted metamorphic rock can impart. Mostly available in bluish-gray, green-gray, gray, white, or soft black that is often veined or speckled, soapstone is non-porous, dense, and can resist bacteria and chemicals quite easily.

As far as thermal conductivity is concerned, it beats both granite and marble. But while soapstone has its pros, it also has its share of disadvantages. For one, its high-talc content makes it prone to scratches. This is not a low-maintenance material, so be prepared to spend time and effort on its upkeep, which includes applying mineral or walnut oil to it once or twice a month.

Its surfaces also naturally darken over time, so do not expect your soapstone countertop to look exactly as it did when you bought it as the years go by. 

Contact Us Today

To pick the best material for your outdoor kitchen countertop, you have to first identify how much you plan to use your kitchen and how roughly or gently you will use it. Then you have to see how your countertop fits in with your outdoor kitchen’s overall design and layout.

Choosing a countertop is not a decision that can be made in isolation, and the right team of experts will be able to help you narrow down your list to know exactly what you need.

At GranitePro, we look at all aspects right down to the material, finish, and seams of your countertop to ensure it fits your space and lifestyle perfectly.

Contact us today to get the correct guidance on how to simplify your search and achieve incredible functionality and aesthetics with the right outdoor kitchen countertop.

Quartz Countertop Colors That Can Completely Transform Your Space

Your home offers many ways to put your stamp of personality on it, from the décor you choose to the materials and textures you prefer. But there’s one somewhat surprising area that you might be overlooking in your design plan that, when done well, can become the focal point of the room: your kitchen or bathroom countertop.

If you opt for a quartz countertop, you’d be amazed at its versatility in color, and what’s more, quartz is extraordinarily consistent in color, pattern, and texture.

Color Options For Quartz Countertops

When it comes to options, you’re spoiled for choice with quartz. The natural colors and patterns will give insight into the depth and character of this engineered stone. When you select the color of your quartz countertop, remember to keep not just your shade preference in mind but what you want the overall room to portray. The hue you pick can do just this.

Solid Or Patterned

Firstly, choose between patterned or solid shades. A solid hue can make your room look refined, sleek, and low-key, and you can pick from shades that include the entire spectrum from subdued or dramatic black, gray, white to neutral tan and beige, or brighter blue, green, orange, pink, and red, among several others.

A one-shade gray, white, or black quartz can make your room look luxurious and elegant, while a warm mocha color can give your home an understated, homey touch. If you want to add openness and brightness to your space, you cannot go wrong with white or light-colored quartz.

This color has a distinct advantage over darker-hued quartz. The other benefit is that it allows you to change the rest of the décor to just about anything, as it fits in with various looks. So, your lighter-colored quartz countertop will look just at home in a Scandinavian-styled kitchen or bathroom as it would in a beach-inspired home.

If darker tones are more your style and you like a touch of drama with functionality, black, dark grays, deep browns, and glamorous reds, blues, and greens can enhance the aesthetics of your space while covering up stains and spills. Remember that even within the dark shades, you get varieties.

For instance, a modern, crisp snowy white could give the room a different feel from softer, more timeless ivory. Similarly, a light blue can infuse your space with tranquility, while a navy one can envelop it in luxury. If you have a lot of wood or metal, try quartz in tan, beige, taupe, or pale rose tones, which complement these materials exceptionally well.

Mix And Match

If you’d instead not stick to one hue, you can have fun mixing and matching. A patterned quartz countertop can be more intriguing and adventurous, especially in contemporary spaces. You can pick eye-catching variations and patterns to transform your room with just this detail.

For instance, if you want to retain the understated look, add in a dash of style. Think barely-there mottling on a solid hue, delicate gold veins, or even swirls of color running through the quartz to add in some visual interest.

Additional Considerations

While you can mix, match, and blend shades till you arrive at the look you envisioned, there are a few tips to keep in mind first. Start by collecting samples of your final selection, and then hold them up against your flooring and décor to see how they fit.

If you picked a dramatic speckled black to add flair and flamboyance to a room, did you first ensure you have the right room size where this color would stand out? Your lighting can also play a significant role, affecting how the quartz countertops look.

Finally, your cabinetry and flooring should match or contrast with your countertop colors so that everything comes together to look fabulous.

Contact Us Today

When it comes to enlivening a room with the right countertop, it’s all in the look and feel you’re seeking, and the hue you pick can help achieve this. It’s not about picking the season’s trending color but rather about looking at how the shade you choose fits into your lifestyle.

At GranitePro, we know our colors, and what’s more, we know our quartz. So, we will help you pick the right color and pattern that suits your space’s layout, design, and size. Contact us today to see how we can bring your kitchen or bathroom to life with a beautiful quartz countertop.

Questions to Ask When Buying New Kitchen Countertops

The process of buying new kitchen countertops isn’t as simple as ordering through a catalog or website. It requires thought and planning. After all, you want your new countertops to look good, last long, and match well within your space. Ultimately, you will be using your new kitchen countertops for years to come.

As with any new purchase, it always helps to be equipped with the right questions before making a purchase decision. Understanding your needs and concerns will help you to ensure your kitchen looks exactly how you envisioned it. We list some of the important aspects to keep in mind before remodeling your kitchen.

How Do You Choose the Best Kitchen Countertops?

When it comes to your kitchen counters, appearance and functionality are key. Whether you choose natural stone or a more unique option, here’s a lowdown on what you need to look at to strike the right balance between form and function.

What Are the Best Countertop Materials to Use?

There are so many to choose from depending on the overall style and design of your room. Some countertop options include:

Marble: Marble countertops give you a clean, polished, and contemporary look. Due to its softer material, marble is not always as durable as other options. A sealer can be applied to help protect the marble from staining. However, it will still be prone to scratching and etching. One popular option of marble to consider is Carrara marble. Named after the region in Italy it originates from, Carrara marble looks light gray and often displays a subtle hint of blue.

Granite: A popular option is granite countertops, which are amazingly durable, completely natural, can be easily cut into various shapes and sizes, and are also heat-resistant. Granite countertops display a polished appearance that can add an upscale touch to your kitchen. When it comes to variety, you will not be without options. Colors range from black to white, brown, red, and others depending on the mineral content. Some popular finishes include leathered and honed.

Quartz: If granite and marble don’t cut it for you, you can also consider quartz countertops, which are usually a mixture of natural quartz with a resin binder. Quartz countertops are an excellent alternative to marble. All the beauty with none of the maintenance. It is a durable option, and far less porous than marble. Quartz counters resist stains well and do not require sealing, making them one of the most practical options for you to consider.

Soapstone: You can also opt for soapstone, which gets its name from the natural talc it contains that lends it a softer or soap-like texture. While it’s not the most scratch resistant option, it also has advantages in that it is not only non-porous but is resistant to stains, bacteria, and heat. To protect soapstone, oil is to be applied to help wear and tear. As the soapstone countertops are used, a patina will form over time, providing you with a rustic and natural look.

What Should You Know About Cleaning?

Look for durability and stain-resistance when buying new kitchen countertops. That way, your countertops can be cleaned with water and mild dish soap or a gentle, all-purpose cleaner free of harsh chemicals. It’s important to consider picking the right material for the right purpose. For example, marble looks fabulous but it is porous and prone to scratching and etching, which means that if you spill red wine or juice on it, you will need to wipe it up quickly to avoid staining. A sealer will help prevent stains on marble, but this material does require more cleaning to prevent damage. So, if you’re looking for heavy-duty use, granite will work best, as it’s durable, heat-resistant, and extremely hardy.

What Is an Edge Profile?

Edge profiles may sound insignificant, but they add value when it comes to making your kitchen look modern and up-to-date. You can pick from bullnose style curves, s-shaped ogee edges that add a luxe element to your kitchen, or square or rounded edges, depending on your preference. To avoid accidents, square edges are best used in a child-free home. A half-bullnose is an excellent option for homes with children due to its gently rounded profile.

How Do You Install a Countertop?

A 45 square foot measurement is an average estimation of a kitchen countertop but, of course, this depends on the design, floor plan, and counter space of your specific kitchen. Countertops can be placed in a way that allows them to balance out a room. For example, a dark design can complement the effects of and highlight, white or light-colored cabinets.

When it comes to countertop installation, it is important to ensure they are cut with precision. After your countertop is leveled out and glued down using a professional sink anchoring system and silicone, the sink is attached to the stone. These steps are all completed the same day.

Contact Us Today

A kitchen remodeling job that involves buying new kitchen countertops can go a long way in dramatically improving the look and function of your space. However, new countertops require quite a bit of investment in time and effort. For this, you need experts with the right skills, insights, and techniques who can take care of everything from the installation to guiding you on the right options for your home. At GranitePro, this is exactly what we guarantee. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help you.

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