There are a lot of myths floating around about engineered quartz. Some people fall for the lies and misunderstand the truths. In the end, this can lead to a lot of people overlooking quartz as a quality kitchen or bathroom countertop for their home.
Today, quartz is growing in popularity, so it’s important to clarify the misconceptions about the stone. If you’re on the marketing for a slab for your bathroom or kitchen, then you too may have some questions you’d like answered.
In the following, we will uncover some of the myths and truths shrouding this beautiful stone countertop. Let’s dig in.
1. Quartz isn’t natural, it’s man-made!
Well, yes, that’s indeed true. But it’s no secret – that’s why it’s called engineered quartz. It’s crafted by people using a mix of resin, pigments and quartz, which is a natural material. The combination of the mix turns it into the tough cookie it is today.
But what continues to attract customers to it is the fact it looks a lot like a natural stone like granite or marble. It comes with veins and specks in varying colors and designs.
2. Quartz is the toughest stone on the block
There are some people who believe that quartz is the hardest mineral in the crust of the earth. While this is flattering, to say the least, it simply isn’t true.
Engineered quartz is very tough, but not the toughest of them all. But it does come in a close second. The number one hardest mineral from the earth is none other than diamond.
3. Quartz can look like natural stones like granite and marble
Now, just because quartz is engineered doesn’t mean it doesn’t look natural. In fact, you’ll find that most slabs have the specks and veins like marble, granite and other natural stones.
You can even select the colors of the specks and veins, so it better matches the design of your kitchen. This is the beauty of engineered quartz – since it’s man-made, you can make it look however you like.
4. Quartz doesn’t require sealing because it’s nonporous, which minimizes bacterial growth
Here’s another fact. The design of quartz is engineered so that it’s nonporous. And since it doesn’t have pores, bacteria and other contaminations can’t easily seep into the surface and cause an outbreak.
This is good for folks who like to cook meat and chop veggies on the same surface. Simply wiping up after you handle meat will ensure your veggies don’t get contaminated.
And when you clean the surface, you won’t have to worry about puddles of water festering into a mold or mildew issue. It’s the perfect surface for a homeowner who takes sanitation seriously.
5. You can crack and chip quartz easily
Now, if this were true, then it would put engineered quartz near the bottom of the list. However, the exact opposite is true. Engineered quartz is an ultra-durable surface next to diamonds in toughness. So, it doesn’t crack or scratch easily.
This is what makes it the perfect addition to kitchens and bathrooms.
6. Quartz is resistant to heat and stains
Here’s another reason that attracts homeowners to engineered quartz. It makes it easier for them to bake and prep foods without the worry of heat and stains.
It is true – quartz is heat and stain resistant, which means no worries of spills and hot pots and pans. No need for a trivet either – you can set your hot pots directly on top of the surface.
7. Quartz doesn’t weigh as much as granite and has unique veins and looks
Neither of these statements are true. Quartz is heavier than granite, which is why it’s important for a contractor to test the sturdiness of your cabinetry before installation.
As for the uniqueness, there’s nothing unique about them. The veins are manufactured, which means there are multiple slabs that look the same.
8. Quartz is perfect for outdoor applications, such as outside kitchens
Unfortunately, this isn’t true. So, if you had high hopes of implementing engineered quartz into your backyard kitchen, then you’ll be disappointed. Quartz isn’t a great material for outdoor settings.
Why? Because of sunlight and excess exposure to heat, which can lead to the surface becoming damaged.
9. Quartz is ideal for large surface areas
Yes, this is a fact. In most cases, these slabs are crafted in large, thick sizes. This means, you can have a uniform slab with no cuts in between. So, if you have an oversized kitchen island, then quartz is the perfect material to use for the surface.
10. All quartz manufacturers are the same
Like with any product you buy on the market, the quality of it depends on the manufacturer that created it. And the same goes for quartz stone slabs. Not all manufacturers are created equal, so you’ll have to find one that has quality products.
Finding Quality Quartz for Your Kitchen or Bathroom Countertops
Now that you know the truths and falsehoods of engineered quartz, it’s time to find a slab for your home. At KNC Granite, we have a great selection of stone countertops made from quartz, marble and granite.
We only purchase from the best brands in the business, which include Cambria, MSI, Caesarstone and Silestone. Our licensed contractors will fabricate the slabs for you, so you get an exact fit for your home.
Visit our local showroom so you can see our quartz countertops in person and choose the one you want installed. Call us today to get started with your free estimate!