What is Quartz
Few elements can transform a space in the design of kitchens and bathrooms like quartz countertops. These beautiful countertops are known for their striking aesthetics, durability, and versatility, making them a popular choice among many homeowners and designers for the usability of commercial and residential. In this quartz guide, we want to help ensure that you are confident in your decision when picking the material for your next home renovation project.
Quartz countertops are made by combining 95% crushed natural quartz crystals with resins, polymers, and pigments. This produces a surface that is non-porous, blending the natural charm of stones. Although they are mostly composed of natural elements, quartz is a man-made engineered stone material.
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Why Choose Quartz Countertops
Beauty: Quartz countertops offer a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures that present the natural charm of stones like granite and marble. Quartz can be made to look like any design, whether classic or bold and can be effortlessly accommodated with a quartz option that blends seamlessly into your vision.
Durability: Quartz countertops have a non-porous composition that resists stains, spills, and bacteria growth, making cleaning and maintenance easier, particularly in busy kitchens and bathroom countertops. This attribute simplifies cleaning and streamlines maintenance, which is a pivotal advantage for high traffic areas such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Scratch and Chip Resistance: Quartz boasts a specially engineered composition that makes it resistant to scratches and chips, allowing it to maintain its polished appearance even after extended use.
Consistent Patterns: Quartz countertops maintain consistent patterns and colors, unlike natural stones like granite which may exhibit varying appearances from one slab to another. This predictability helps in envisioning the overall aesthetics of the space.
Heat Endurance: Despite being able to withstand moderate heat, it is recommended to use coasters or protective pads to prevent direct contact with hot pots and pans and safeguard the quartz countertop surface.
Easy Upkeep: In contrast to natural stones that necessitate occasional sealing, quartz countertops do not. Simple cleaning using mild soap and water suffices to maintain their optimal appearance.
Designing with Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are a homeowner’s dream, offering endless possibilities to enhance your space. Here at BC Stone, we pride ourselves in offering you the best options in quartz countertops Pittsburgh has to offer. Here are some design tips:
Kitchen Elegance: Create a sleek and modern kitchen with pristine white quartz countertops paired with dark cabinetry. Or go for a bolder look with quartz in shades of gray or black.
Bathroom Luxe: Transform your bathroom into a spa-like sanctuary with quartz countertops in soothing colors, such as soft blues or pale greens. Add undermount sinks for a seamless and elegant look.
Island Focal Point: Make your kitchen island the center of attention with a unique quartz countertop featuring dramatic veining or a vibrant hue contrasting with the rest of the kitchen. Double the compliments with a double island kitchen.
Backsplash Coordination: Pair your quartz countertops with a striking backsplash, whether it’s mosaic tiles, glass tiles, subway tiles, or even a continuation of the quartz material.
Edge Profiles: Edge profiles are the most overlooked but they can really bring out the color and style of your kitchen. You are able to customize the edge profile of your quartz countertops to match your desired aesthetic, whether it’s a clean and simple square edge or an elegant edge profile. At BC Stone we have standard, level 1 and level 2 and they each get more intricate.
- Eased edge countertops: This is an excellent choice if you’re seeking a design that’s simple and doesn’t draw attention away from other focal design elements in your area. This style is something that will guarantee a great look.
- Full bullnose countertop edge: This style holds a timeless appeal and is particularly suitable for environments with young children, as it eliminates any sharp edges or corners on the countertop.
- Ogee Edge Countertop: The large ogee edge has a fancy and elegant look that works well in classic kitchens. It features a big curved shape and is part of our basic edge options. Also called a double ogee edge, this design will make your custom granite countertops really stand out.
- Rock Edge: Our rock edge showcases the unprocessed stone, providing your countertop with a distinctive and more organic look. This rugged edge style is an ideal match for natural stones such as granite countertops, as it brings out their innate beauty and accentuates their distinct features.
- Pencil Edge Countertop: This edge is versatile and can complement any kitchen or bathroom style. It is also great if you have kids around the house because of its smooth surface ensuring no one will get hurt.
- Cove – Dupont: This style will help bring out your countertop and look sophisticated. This unique edge will never go out of style and you will appreciate it for years to come.
Check out our blog on The best Countertop Edge Options.
Cleaning Quartz Countertops: Tips for Longevity
Maintaining the beauty and functionality of your quartz countertops:
Daily Cleaning: Wipe down your countertops with a mild soap and water solution. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could dull the surface.
Stain Prevention: While quartz is stain-resistant, it’s best to wipe up spills promptly, especially highly acidic substances. You can also use specific quartz countertop cleaners.
Avoid Cutting Directly: Use cutting boards to prevent scratching, even though quartz is highly scratch-resistant.
Heat Protection: Always use trivets or hot pads when placing hot cookware on the countertop.
Avoid Impact: While quartz is chip-resistant, it’s wise to avoid dropping heavy objects directly onto the surface.
Granite Gold Sealer: BC Stone has Granite Gold which is a granite and quartz protection plan that provides you with the freedom to relish your kitchen and bathroom countertops without the concern of unexpected stains and harm that may arise in the course of life. We assure you that our technicians are available to cleanse and restore your countertops in case of any damage so you don’t have to worry about it.
Honed vs Polished
Honed and polished finishes will present different characteristics for quartz countertops. Honed offers a smooth, matte surface with a natural and relaxed appearance, though it can be more susceptible to showing marks. On the other hand, the polished finish boasts a high-gloss, reflective surface that enhances the quartz’s colors and patterns while providing better stain resistance and easier maintenance. The choice between the two depends on your desired aesthetic and practical considerations for your space.
Thickness of Quartz Countertops
At BC Stone, we offer both 2cm and 3cm slabs. The 2 cm slab is the standard countertop for many households as it is durable and used in many kitchen and bathroom applications. The 3 cm is more of a premium choice and is preferred because of its durability and luxurious appeal. To know which thickness is right for your project, please consult with one of our professionals.
Quartz Countertop Colors
Black Quartz Countertops
- Manhattan Gray
- Midnight Corvo
- Meteorite
White Quartz Countertops
- Calacatta Botanica
- Carrara Mist
- Iced White
Grey Quartz Countertops
- Archer Grey
- Portico Cream
- Galloway
Brown Quartz Countertops
- Argil
- Bedrock
- Cappuccino
In conclusion, quartz countertops offer a harmonious blend of beauty and durability, making them an exceptional choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and beyond. With their multitude of design options and minimal maintenance requirements, quartz countertops can elevate your space to new heights of elegance and functionality. So, whether you’re embarking on a complete kitchen remodel Pittsburgh or simply looking to refresh your bathroom, let us help you get quartz that won’t disappoint. Contact us or visit one of our locations in Everett, Pennsylvania, Salem, Virginia, or Fisherville, Virginia.
