The Long and Short of Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops have been a kitchen design trend for a while, and they may remain so for a time to come. For a homeowner with a kitchen remodel in Livonia, quartz is one material to consider for functional and aesthetically fascinating countertops. The material has grown into a preferable alternative to granite and for good reasons. It offers durability and versatility in style and color. For an individual who is thinking about trying out quartz countertops for kitchen remodeling in Livonia, it helps to understand what else they offer. What is this material? Is it sustainable? What type of working area does it guarantee? Here are a few basics.What It IsQuartz has the look of natural stone except that it is not obtained from the earth. The material is made by combining ground quartz with a binding agent, usually polyester resins. Besides acting as a bonding agent, the resins are responsible for the scratch and stain resistant properties of quartz. The quartz crystals used in this process are mined from the earth then ground to dust. Next, the dust particles undergo extreme heat and pressure treatments to bind them. Pigments are added to the mixture to achieve different hues. Some manufacturers add metal flecks or recycled glass to create unique styles.What It OffersThe polyester resins used for binding eliminate the need for sealing quartz countertops because the material is nonporous. This characteristic also makes quartz antimicrobial because spillages cannot penetrate. When sourcing ideas for kitchen remodeling in Livonia, the maintenance requirements of a countertop are very critical. A countertop that does not demand a new coat of sealant every year saves money.Quartz countertops lagged behind in design trends because they did not have many color options. Technology has, however, allowed manufacturers to come up with quartz countertops with veined and multihued surfaces that rival the versatility of natural stone. Color choices range from white marble to crisp green. With the right choice of material, it is hard to tell apart a quartz countertop from one made of stone. The flexibility of the material as a result of the resins makes it easy to bend for different countertop profiles.What About the Cons?Every material has its downsides, and quartz’s shortcoming is that it cannot withstand extreme heat. The degree of heat and scorch resistance of this material is limited, and a homeowner has to be sure to what point. Leaving a hot pan on a quartz surface for too long will cause it to crack. It is for the same reason quartz countertops are not suitable for outdoor kitchens where they will be exposed to too much heat. Compared to other countertop materials, quartz is pricier.Quartz countertops are timeless trends that a homeowner can pick for kitchen remodeling in Livonia. The low maintenance, style variety, and stain/scratch resistance of the material makes it a worthy choice for busy kitchens.