Kitchen renovations are the single most popular remodeling option for homeowners. The National Kitchen and Bath Association estimates more than 10 million kitchens undergo remodeling each year. With countertops accounting for a significant portion (10%) of the total renovation budget, you may need to take time to choose the right fit for your home.
Quartz countertops are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners and kitchen designers alike. With a natural-looking profile minus the cleaning hassle, a quartz countertop can easily rival most other countertops. Here are some of the advantages of incorporating quartz to your kitchen renovation.
Quartz slabs are made up of approximately 93% natural quartz and 7% polyester resins and color pigments. Quartz ranks as the fourth hardest crystalline mineral, raking a 7.0 out of 10 on the Mohs Hardness Scale. A quartz countertop is virtually indestructible. They can withstand the rigors of daily life even in busy kitchens.
Quartz countertops are non-porous and do not need the annual sealing standard in the natural stone counterparts. The smooth surface is easy to clean. It only requires a sponge and soapy water when cleaning. The resins make the engineered stone corrosion-resistant, preventing stains from penetrating beyond the surface.
Most quartz brands such as Bellingham countertops are NSF-approved, meaning the surface is safe for food preparation. The non-porous nature prevents the absorption of moisture, which may support bacterial growth. The quartz countertop doesn’t have radioactive elements common in other natural stone countertops.
Quartz countertops are visually appealing, given that the slabs come in various patterns, texture, and colors. Kitchen design stores now stock multi colored slabs with different flecks, swirls, and random patterns. From granite-esque designs to veining resembling marble countertops, you will be spoiled for choice.
How to choose the right quartz countertop
The first step is to shop around for different colors and patterns. Quartz slabs come in a wide color pallet. You may opt for the fiery red or a natural green hue. If you need a more earthly tone, you can go for brown, cream, or tan slabs. Remember to factor in lighting and the overall tone of your kitchen.
Quartz countertops are available in a variety of finishing patterns. You can go with either a polished, matte, or rugged texture for your kitchen remodeling. The edge profile is another essential factor you need to keep in mind. Some of the popular edging styles include ogee, pencil round, bullnose, half-bullnose, bevel, and waterfall. A kitchen designer can help you choose the right profile for your kitchen space.
The countertop is arguably the centerpiece within the kitchen. The thickness of the quartz slab used depends on your lifestyle. Thinner quartz countertops offer a minimalistic, contemporary look but are not fit for a regularly used kitchen. The thicker quartz slabs are bulkier and are the more durable option for frequently used kitchens.
Quartz is a popular choice among homeowners looking for durable and low maintenance countertops for their kitchen remodeling. You may need to factor in color, edging, and thickness of the slab when selecting your quartz countertop. For more information on the right stone for your kitchen surfaces, please contact Supreme Stone.
