Kitchen

Quartz is a durable worktop material that can be patterned like granite or marble but it doesn’t carry any flaws associated with natural stones. That’s why many people today are inclined towards this sturdy countertop. However, you may even consider other great alternatives to quartz for a stylish kitchen, depending on your lifestyle and interior.

Quartz countertops were invented in 1963 by an Italian firm called Breton. Years later, now, the quartz surfaces still come from its source after original manufacturers licensed its Bretonstone technology to around 52 companies across the world.

Currently, quartz worktops are very popular in the UK, Italy and the US. It is designed to look like marble and granite. So, people can get a touch of natural stone into their house without bearing its downsides.

Quartz Pros

l  Quartz worktops are gorgeous but durable at the same time. Since these worktops don’t possess the weakness of natural stones like marble, granite or slate worktops, these are likely to last for a very long time if installed professionally.

l  Homeowners can choose from a wide range of colours and exquisite patterns to blend the kitchen countertops with any interior scheme. Due to the innovative technology that’s used for manufacturing quartz, it’s going to sustain its luxurious and naturally appealing appearance for a long duration.

l  While concrete and granite are also considered to be durable worktop options, quartz is much better than both these natural stones because it won’t crack easily.

l  Since quartz worktops are non-porous, their surface ensures they always look flawless by preventing any stains on them. Moreover, there is no risk of developing viruses or bacteria, as moisture doesn’t trap into their non-porous surface.

l  Quartz countertops don’t need any time-consuming or expensive upkeep like natural stone countertops. So, homeowners do not have to stress over their regular maintenance.

Quartz Cons

l  One of the major cons of quartz countertops is that it is expensive. Since it’s a high-end product, you have to spend more money on its installation than any other alternative.

l  You even have to pay for expert installation, as it’s a solid surface material. This means the cost of professional installation will be included separately to the final price of your new quartz countertops.

l  Quartz appears fairly modern, so it can look out of place if installed in a traditional home.

l  Quartz is not as heat-resistant as other countertops like ceramics or slate. So, homeowners are advised to place hot pads before placing hot pots or pans on their surface.

l  Quartz can discolour over time if constantly exposed to extreme sunlight.

l  Quartz is heavier compared to granite.

What are the Alternatives to Quartz?

  • Granite

Contrary to the belief, natural granite has higher resistance against stains, scratching and heat. A high-quality and dense granite material is highly heat resistant compared to quartz. However, it’s still recommended to use hot pads before placing hot utensils on its surface. The polished and sealed granite surfaces are unique and long-lasting, as well as prevent any staining or heat damaged to the countertop.

  • Slate

Slate kitchen worktops are also a great alternative countertop to quartz. It comes in many gorgeous colours to match any interior scheme. The slate has few colour shifts, so it’s easier to have a uniform countertop look with this material.

Slate is more affordable than quartz, making it a great option for renovating your kitchen or bathroom in the budget. It is resistant to heat and you can place hot pots or pans on its surface without worrying about damaging its surface. It is a durable worktop material that’s not easy to crack or damaged unless you drop a very heavy object on its edges. But such incidents are less likely to happen in kitchens. Furthermore, it is resistant to UV rays and thus, can easily be placed outdoors without worries.

  • Concrete

Concrete is also a durable countertop material that’s ideal for both indoor and outdoor installation. It is a heavy worktop that stands out in any kitchen design. You can even place hot pots or pans on its surface without damaging it. Since these worktops are heavy, you often have to get new cabinets installed underneath them for extra support.

  • Ceramics

It is also a great alternative to quartz and is resistant to scratches, stains, heat and sunlight. Like other quartz alternatives mentioned above, you can install ceramics in both indoor and outdoor environments without worrying about any damages.