What is an artificial quartz stone?

Difference Between Natural Quartzite and Engineered Quartz

Engineered quartz and natural quartzite are both favored for countertops, backsplashes, and a variety of applications in homes. While their names sound similar and are often mistakenly interchanged, they represent distinct materials. A recent article titled Natural Quartzite and Engineered Quartz: What’s the Difference? by Karin Kirk effectively clarifies these differences, providing valuable insights into the two categories of quartz. Here are some key points drawn from her writing.

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Engineered Quartz Countertops: All You Need to Know

When planning any kitchen design, the options seem endless. Choosing the optimal material can be a daunting task, as homeowners must consider various factors including countertop material, color schemes, and backsplash designs.

For many, engineered quartz stands out as the desired choice, and it’s not hard to understand why. In this article, we will explore the advantages of engineered quartz and why it is an ideal solution for any countertop project.

What is engineered quartz?

Engineered quartz is a manufactured product created from natural materials. It primarily comprises about 90% ground quartz combined with 10% resins and pigments, which together form a hard and resilient surface. This extraordinary hardness, along with other beneficial properties, makes quartz a unique option among countertop materials.

Noted for its durability, engineered quartz is one of the hardest materials available for countertops. This durability translates to a lower environmental impact since it tends to last longer than many alternative countertop options, reducing the frequency of replacements.

Manufacturers like Caesarstone produce high-quality quartz countertops that not only captivate the eye but also offer numerous advantages for homeowners. These countertops mimic the appearance and texture of popular materials such as marble, granite, and concrete.

What quartz colors are available?

As previously mentioned, quartz being an engineered product allows for a virtually limitless palette of colors.

Homeowners can browse an extensive range of colors from Caesarstone's catalog, enabling them to find the perfect shade to complement their space. For instance, if someone is interested in grey engineered quartz countertop options, selections like Airy Concrete, Turbine Grey, or London Grey are excellent choices. Furthermore, Caesarstone provides an array of tones including black, white, brown, and beige.

If you would like to learn more about Custom Artificial Quartz Stone, contact us today for a professional consultation!

How durable is an engineered quartz counter?

Given that kitchens and bathrooms experience high foot traffic, it’s essential that the materials used in these spaces are both practical and long-lasting. Nobody desires the hassle of replacing countertops frequently.

Among all countertop materials available, quartz holds the title for durability. It rates a solid 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, showcasing its strength. This resilience is reflected in the warranties provided by manufacturers, with Caesarstone offering a lifetime warranty for interior countertops and a 10-year warranty for outdoor countertops.

Are quartz countertops heat-resistant?

Quartz countertops are indeed heat-resistant, a characteristic that makes them a favorite among homeowners. However, it is vital to remember that quartz is not entirely heat-proof. Under extreme temperatures, engineered quartz can sustain burns that cannot be repaired.

To maintain their pristine condition, it is recommended that homeowners utilize heat pads or trivets when placing hot pots or appliances on quartz surfaces.

What about porosity?

In terms of porosity, engineered quartz excels. Unlike porous countertops, which can harbor bacteria and be cumbersome to clean, the non-porous attribute of quartz countertops creates a safe and hygienic surface. Additionally, since quartz is not porous, it does not require sealing, contributing to lower maintenance costs.

Are they easy to maintain?

Maintaining quartz countertops is straightforward, requiring only warm water and mild soap for cleaning. For tougher spills, non-abrasive cleaners are sufficient.

In the case of dried spills, a little water can help rehydrate the area before cleaning with a damp cloth. While rust marks are uncommon, they can be effectively managed with an appropriate cleaner from Caesarstone.

How versatile is quartz?

Quartz is highly versatile, making it a perfect choice for a variety of renovation projects, from countertops and backsplashes to walls. Some homeowners even use it as flooring material. As an engineered stone, it is easy to find the right color and style to harmonize with any living space.

Those looking for outdoor applications will be pleased to know that Caesarstone also presents an outstanding outdoor collection, featuring three stunning colors: 515 Palm Shade, 406 Clearskies, and 405 Midday. These countertops are not only visually striking but are also designed for durability, able to withstand harsh weather conditions including rain, sun, and snow.

What is the cost of engineered quartz?

After examining the benefits, one may wonder about the cost of engineered quartz. Typically, quartz countertops range from $40 to over $100 per square foot, with the final price influenced by color selection, slab thickness, location, and design configurations.

For further information, please visit our website for more details on Natural Quartz Countertops.