It can often be hard to tell whether or not quartz countertops are worth the money. A lot of this uncertainty comes from not knowing what to look for in quartz counters. Once armed with this information, the real value of a quartz counter becomes apparent.

An engineered countertop, quartz is durable and easy to clean. Quartz counters are also environmentally friendly, containing up to 90% waste products recycled from different manufacturing and quarry processes.

Quartz Countertops Composition

Quartz counters typically contain around 93% mineral content. As an engineered countertop, all softer materials and impurities are removed, creating a harder and more durable surface than granite.

With a water absorption rate of 0.5 percent, quartz countertops are, by definition, nonabsorbent. This non-porous nature significantly reduces the risk of bacterial proliferation and makes the surface easier to clean. Silestone mixes Microban, their trademarked antimicrobial compound, into their slabs, helping them prevent the buildup of pathogenic microorganisms.

While durable, quartz countertops are not indestructible. High temperatures, as from a hot pan, can damage the synthetic binders used in fabrication. Unlike natural stone countertops such as granite or quartzite, intense heat sources should stay off engineered quartz counters.

Quartz Counter Fabrication Quality

The quality of a quartz slab is directly related to the manufacturing process behind it. It is important that you look for quartz, not quartzite, when shopping around. Quartzite is a natural stone countertop and not an engineered one. Quartzite requires an application of sealant every few years similar to granite, while an engineered quartz counter does not.

As far as the quality of manufacturing goes, several brands have a proven track record and have made a reliable name for themselves. Cambria, Caesarstone, and Silestone are such brands. Be wary of Chinese fabrications that tend to use more polymer than quartz. Often rubbery in appearance, these countertops are of much lower quality.

Quartz Counter Pricing

Prices for quartz countertops can range from $115-$200 per square foot, comparable to granite. Unlike granite counters, quartz countertops do not require sealing every few years, saving you money as time goes on. Because they are considered an upscale installation, you can expect to recoup around 54% of the cost if you decide to one day sell your home.

You can also expect many quartz countertops to come with a warranty – something you won’t find with granite or other natural stone counters. It is not unheard of to see a quartz countertop with a 15-year, 25-year, or even lifetime warranty. While a plus, make sure to go over what the warranty does and does not cover with your manufacturer. Some warranties are also transferrable, meaning that the warranty transfers to the new owner if you sell your home.

Are quartz countertops worth the money? If their aesthetic matches your tastes, there is no better value out there for such a high-end, durable, stone countertop. Quartz counters are non-porous, easy-to-clean, and customizable to fit into just about any design you can dream up.

Looking for Custom Quartz Counter

With over 200 different colors available for you to choose from, CCT Natural Stone Designs has what you need to incorporate a beautiful quartz countertop into your project. Contact us today to request a quote.