Are you thinking about giving your kitchen a dash of durable style? Or maybe you’re wondering what kind of worktop will best weather your cooking creations.
Well, quartz worktops are often the unsung heroes of functional kitchens that have a flair of fashion. But, with their sometimes lofty prices, people find themselves asking “Are quartz worktops actually worth it?”
You’ve come to the right place. At Melrosa, we’re experts in all things quartz and to help you make the right decision for your home, we’ve pulled together everything you need to answer that burning question. Let’s get into it.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops are made by combining natural quartz crystals with various resins. This produces solid surfaces that are non-porous and highly durable, making them an excellent alternative to marble and granite worktops. Overall, the composition and durability of quartz make it a popular choice for both kitchen and bathroom countertops.
Things To Think About
When it comes to choosing kitchen countertops, there are several factors to think about. Quartz worktops are a popular choice among homeowners, thanks to their blend of natural materials and modern manufacturing techniques, but what are the most important things to consider?
Maintenance
One of the major advantages of quartz worktops is that they’re low maintenance. Unlike natural stone countertops, quartz worktops are non-porous and do not require sealing. This means that you don’t have to worry about staining or water damage if you spill something on the surface.
To keep your quartz worktops looking their best, just use mild soap and warm water to wipe away any spills or food residue. Unlike some other surfaces, special cleaners are not necessary for routine cleaning. A soft cloth or sponge is usually enough to remove any dirt or grime.
However, it is important to note that quartz worktops are not completely heat resistant. While the natural stone can withstand heat, you should use trivets or heat pads to protect the resin binders on the surface from hot pans or pots.
Durability
Quartz worktops are highly durable and built to last. They are designed to withstand the demands of daily use in the kitchen and can even endure heavy impact without scratching or chipping. This makes them an excellent option for busy households or even commercial settings.
One of the key factors contributing to the durability of quartz worktops is their scratch resistance. Thanks to the strong composition of natural quartz crystals and artificial resin binders, these worktops can resist scratches from sharp knives or other kitchen utensils. This means that, while we would always recommend using a chopping board, you can prepare and chop ingredients directly on the surface without worrying about damaging it.
In addition to being scratch-resistant, quartz worktops are also chip-resistant. They can withstand accidental impacts from heavy pots, pans, or kitchen appliances without chipping or cracking. This ensures that your worktops will continue to look pristine for many years to come.
We already know that quartz is non-porous. Alongside this making them easy to clean, it also means they are stain resistant, as they naturally prevent liquids and substances from penetrating its surface. This also means that there is no need for sealing, unlike natural stone worktops.
Appearance
The appearance of quartz countertops is one of their most appealing features. With their wide range of colours and styles, quartz countertops can effortlessly enhance the aesthetics of any kitchen or bathroom.
Quartz countertops come in a variety of colours and styles, including solid colours and flecked patterns. Whether you prefer a sleek and modern look or a more rustic feel, there is a quartz countertop to match your taste and interior design.
One advantage that quartz countertops is that they are manufactured to have a consistent look. This means that you can select a sample of quartz, you’ll know that the finished product will look the same.
While the consistent appearance of quartz countertops makes them perfect for modern homes, it is important to note that they may not be the best fit for traditional decor. However, with the wide range of colours and styles available, it is still possible to find a quartz countertop that complements a traditional aesthetic.
Cost
When considering quartz worktops, it’s important to take into account the cost compared to other natural stone countertops. While quartz countertops tend to be more expensive than wood or laminate counters, they are generally cheaper than other luxury materials like granite countertops.
Another important consideration to make when it comes to the cost of quartz is its durability. Because this material lasts for a long time, the price of these worktops can be seen as an investment – one which you are less likely to have to replace.
Upgrade Your Worktops With Melrosa
The heart of the home deserves a worktop that’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a champion of longevity and practicality. And, while there are a host of materials vying for your attention, quartz has steadily chiselled its way into the hearts and homes across the UK.
We’ve been supplying and professionally installing quartz counters for years – trust our experience to give you home the perfect finishing touch.