Take any tour of a kitchen showroom, and you'll notice one material featured seemingly in nearly every showroom. Individuals researching quartz countertops near me in Vernon always have the same initial inquiry – is quartz truly harder than natural stone? The truth of the matter is that in some ways it is; in other ways, granite has the advantage, and it’s knowing the differences that will give you confidence when making your decision.
Quartz is manufactured. Natural quartz crystals are bound together with resins and pigments in order to create slabs of varying colours and textures. It is because of the manufacturing process that quartz can offer a vast array of styles and a consistent look from slab to slab. By contrast, granite is cut straight out of the earth, and each slab varies in appearance on its own merits.
An additional positive aspect of utilizing quartz in everyday life is that it is a nonporous material. Regardless of the amount of wine, coffee, or oil spilled on the surface of the quartz countertop, it is not going to stain because it won’t absorb anything in the same way natural stone does, which makes it possible to clean everything up just with water and some soap. There is no need for any sealing at all compared to granite, which needs occasional resealing.
Another positive characteristic of quartz is its durability. While it will not scratch or chip as a result of normal use, a hit to its corner or edge when you drop something like a cooking pot will damage it. But still, there is a good thing about this fact since it can be fixed.
Heat is where changes need to be made in terms of expectations. Quartz can withstand some amount of heat up to a point but does not withstand heat in general. Although the crystals can withstand the heat, the resins used to hold the crystals together may burn, turn yellow, and even crack due to too much heat. Placing a trivet or a hot pad beneath the pots, pans, and baking trays will be enough of a solution in the most basic form. The other vital factor is the presence of sunlight, since extended exposure can damage some quartz surfaces; therefore, the use of special outdoor products is recommended.
Taking care of the quartz surface is a very simple process. Lukewarm water with a mild dish soap and a soft sponge will do the trick, and it’s best to avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, oven cleaners, and paint removers, while using a cutting board to protect the surface from scratches.
It's good to have an idea of how the process will go and what to expect. The usual process entails measurement and templating at the location of the project, followed by fabrication over one to two weeks in a secure workshop environment, and finally the installation, which typically takes about a day. Countertops are normally 3 centimeters thick for the countertops and 2 centimetres thick for the backsplashes. It normally takes up to two to three weeks to complete an entire kitchen.
When people compare quartz countertops in Vernon, the selection will usually be dependent on their lifestyle. Convenience and uniformity in terms of design would usually favour quartz. For uniqueness, there’s always granite.
Rob Simmons is the author of this article. For more details about Pearl sinks and faucets, please visit our website: stonebrotherscountertop.com.
