1. Quartz Countertops Are Not Solid Quartz.

Quartz countertops are man-made engineered stone countertops formed by combining about 90% ground quartz (a natural hard mineral) with 8-10% resins, polymers, and pigments. This forms a hard granite-like surface. The appearance depends on how the quartz is ground. For example, coarsely ground quartz produces a speckled appearance, while finely ground quartz produces a smooth look.  Recycled materials such as glass, mirror pieces, waste marble or granite can also be mixed in to add texture and different patterns, as well.

2. All Quartz Comes from One Source

Italian company Breton owns the patent to manufacture solid surfaces from quartz and resins. The process consists of blending pulverized natural stone aggregate with a mix of polymers, removing the air, then heating and shaping the material into slabs that have the hardness and appearance of natural stone.  This technology was developed in 1963 and patented and licensed the process under the trademark Bretonstone®. Bretonstone® technology has been licensed to more than 50 companies all over the world. Companies like Silestone, Cambria, Caesarstone and others use this technology, adding in their own touches to create unique products.

3. Quartz is Antimicrobial

The resin binders used in manufacturing the quartz product make it nonporous. Stain- and odor-causing bacteria, mold, and mildew cannot penetrate the surface. This makes quartz an especially attractive choice for kitchen and bathroom countertops.

4. Quartz is Durable and Forgiving

Because quartz is an engineered stone, it has characteristics of both plastics AND stone. Quartz is strong and hard like natural stone, but because of its composition, it also has some flexibility. Natural stone can be prone to cracking and chipping. Quartz, on the other hand, is hard as stone without the liabilities of cracks, chips, or fissures.

5. Quartz No Longer Competes with Granite

Quartz has come into its own with the huge depth and breadth of patterns, textures, colors, and designs. There is a quickly growing niche for the ultra-modern looks that quartz provides. An unexpected upside of the demand for quartz is that granite prices have fallen. This gives homeowners who wish to install granite more bang for their buck.

If you are interested in finding out more about quartz and how you can update your kitchen or bathroom, please visit our website or call us.