Often substituted as the cheaper alternative to high-end countertops, quartz has found its reputation for bringing a stately ambience to almost any room it is placed in. Today, quartz no longer struggles to compete with its two closest competitors, granite and marble, which outsold quartz before being recognized as superior.
Those unfamiliar with quartz used for countertops and surfaces may know it by one of these more popular brands, such as Silestone, Cambria, and Caesarstone. The etymology of quartz implies brightness and hardness. It is from the mid-18th century, from the word Quarz and from the Polish dialect kwardy, which corresponds to standard Polish twardy, meaning hard.
The mixture of stones that makes up the majority of the quartz slab is a combination of quartz and resin. However, some brands mix it with marble, granite, and other natural stones, as well as chipped materials like glass, mirrors, ceramics, and silica. Some manufacturers also include antibacterial substances to fight bacteria that grow on countertops.
One of the biggest benefits that quartz surfaces offer is their hardness. Solid and to the touch, a quartz surface will show its depth and range of colors even after years of heavy use. This ability to withstand wear, pressure or damage makes it a great choice for any busy room.
Granite is cut into slabs directly from the ground, it is a natural stone. Quartz, on the other hand, is designed. Since it is manufactured it has far fewer blemishes and is less expensive. Furthermore, almost any color imaginable can be brought out on its surface through a pigmentation process. While natural stones can be quite limited in their color selection.
Finding the right material for surfaces is a crucial part of building design. It is an important aspect in creating an environment to perfectly satisfy your tastes. One reason to choose quartz is that it is much less expensive than most granites and marbles. Also, as mentioned above, the appearance of quartz can be manipulated. This allows its creators to ensure that each slab has the correct texture, pattern, and color. Also, quartz is incredibly durable. During the manufacturing process, the resin is bonded to the stone, making it more durable than natural stones. Finally, it is easier to clean than natural stones. Its non-porous nature prevents substances from getting stuck in microscopic nooks and crannies, resulting in a stain-resistant surface that is less likely to harbor bacteria.
