What is artificial quartz?
According to MyHome Designers, selecting the perfect countertop material for both kitchens and bathrooms has become a popular indulgence for homeowners. To help you make an informed decision, we reached out to our remodeling consultants, project managers, and designers to share their favorite countertop materials. The overwhelming favorite? Engineered quartz.
What is Engineered Quartz?
Engineered quartz is a man-made material, composed of 90% ground quartz and 10% resins, pigments, and polymers, which vary by manufacturer. The quartz is mixed with these materials and pressed together to form solid slabs. Recently, engineered quartz has become a top choice due to its cost-effectiveness.
The cost of engineered quartz depends on the manufacturer and installation fees. On average, you can expect to pay between $60 and $120 per square foot for the material, and an additional $180 to $350 for installation. The price may vary depending on the grade of engineered quartz—builder, premium, or designer-grade. Leading manufacturers like Caesarstone, Silestone, and Dekton are well-known for their high-quality engineered quartz products.
The Advantages of Engineered Quartz
#1: Variety of Finishes
One of the main attractions of engineered quartz is its wide array of finishes and colors, allowing you to choose the perfect fit for your style and palette. Whether you prefer the speckled look or the veining of natural stone, or a solid, uniform color, engineered quartz offers many options. Some varieties closely resemble authentic stone so much that it’s hard to tell them apart. While whites and grays are the traditional go-to colors, adventurous homeowners can opt for vibrant shades like blue, green, black, purple, or even gold. There’s no shortage of style options with engineered quartz.
#2: Exceptional Durability
Engineered quartz is remarkably durable. Unlike marble, which can be prone to damage, quartz countertops are much tougher. This makes them ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Engineered quartz resists acidic substances that would typically stain other materials. In fact, it shares many of the same durability features as granite but is more forgiving. It’s highly resistant to cracking, chipping, etching, and scratching, making it the perfect option for kitchens where knives and other utensils are frequently used. A quartz countertop can withstand considerable pressure without showing any damage.
Most manufacturers offer extended warranties, and with proper maintenance, engineered quartz can last a lifetime.
#3: Cost-Effective
Engineered quartz is not only more affordable than natural stone, but it’s also easier to install. Considering its strength and quality, quartz countertops are a great value for the price. Because quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on the planet, it’s relatively inexpensive to mine. If you’re working with a budget but still want something stylish and long-lasting, engineered quartz is an excellent choice.
The price may fluctuate depending on factors like color, finish, and veining, with rarer or more intricate designs costing more. Despite these variations, engineered quartz remains a great value, particularly when compared to natural stone countertops. Prices can also vary based on the type—whether tile or slab—and the size of the countertop.
#4: Nonporous Surface
Thanks to its nonporous quality, engineered quartz is resistant to staining. During the manufacturing process, the quartz is smoothed and purified, eliminating pores. This feature also prevents the growth of bacteria and viruses, making it especially valuable in bathrooms. Unlike marble, quartz can handle spills of substances like wine, coffee, or oil without absorbing them. Additionally, cleaning quartz countertops is as simple as wiping them down with soap and water—there’s no need for harsh chemicals or sterilizing agents.
You Need to Know About Engineered Quartz Countertops
Designing your kitchen involves an overwhelming number of choices. Beyond selecting countertops, homeowners must also consider color schemes, backsplashes, and other design elements.
Among the many options available, engineered quartz is a popular choice, and it’s easy to see why. In this article, we’ll dive into the benefits of engineered quartz countertops and why they’re the perfect addition to any home project.
What is Engineered Quartz?
Engineered quartz is a synthetic material made from 90% ground quartz and 10% resins and pigments. This blend creates a hard, durable surface that stands out for its resistance to damage. It’s one of the hardest materials used for countertops, making it highly durable and long-lasting.
In addition to its durability, the environmental impact of engineered quartz is low due to its longevity. Homeowners won’t need to replace it as often as other countertop options.
Premium brands like Caesarstone offer quartz countertops that are both visually striking and incredibly durable. These countertops also mimic the aesthetics of materials like marble, granite, and concrete.
What Quartz Colors are Available?
Since engineered quartz is a man-made product, it comes in an endless variety of colors and finishes. For example, Caesarstone’s catalog includes a vast selection of hues, from subtle grays like Airy Concrete and Turbine Grey to bold choices like London Grey. Whether you're looking for a neutral tone or a striking statement piece, you can find the perfect match for your space.
How Durable is Engineered Quartz?
Are Quartz Countertops Heat-Resistant?
Quartz countertops are heat-resistant, which adds to their popularity. However, it’s important to note that quartz is not heat-proof. While it can withstand moderate heat, prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures may cause burn marks that cannot be repaired.
To preserve the beauty of your quartz countertops, always use heat pads or trivets when placing hot cookware or appliances on them.
What About Porosity?
Engineered quartz is non-porous, making it far more durable and easier to clean than porous alternatives. This feature also prevents the growth of bacteria, making it a hygienic choice for kitchens and bathrooms. Furthermore, quartz doesn’t require sealing, saving you on maintenance costs.
Are Quartz Countertops Easy to Maintain?
Maintaining quartz countertops is a breeze. All you need is warm water and mild soap to keep your surface looking pristine. For tougher spills, use non-abrasive cleaners and a soft cloth. Even dried spills can be removed with a little water and a damp towel.
How Versatile is Quartz?
Quartz is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for countertops, backsplashes, and even flooring. Thanks to its engineered nature, it’s easy to find a color and style that fits your specific needs and enhances the aesthetic of your space. Additionally, Caesarstone offers a stunning outdoor collection designed to withstand the elements, perfect for enhancing outdoor kitchens and living spaces.
Their outdoor collection includes luxurious shades like 515 Palm Shade, 406 Clearskies, and 405 Midday, all of which are built to endure rain, sun, and snow.
What is the Cost of Engineered Quartz?
The price of engineered quartz countertops typically ranges from $40 to over $100 per square foot, depending on factors such as color, thickness, location, and installation specifics.
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