If you are renovating your kitchen, you have several options when it comes to selecting materials for the countertops. While granite and marble are available, one increasingly popular material is quartz. Countertops of this stone are increasingly becoming popular in American cities such as Minneapolis. However, being more expensive, the question is “Are they worth the extra cost?”
Positive Qualities of Quartz Countertops
When looking at quartz as a material for kitchen countertops in your Minneapolis residence, it is important to consider certain positive qualities. While the appearance of quartz is an important characteristic, what makes quartz more endearing to those who select it are those qualities that increase its functionality. These include:
- Durability: Since it was first engineered by Breton (an Italian company) in 1963, quartz has proven to be durable against the most common examples of daily wear and tear. On the Mohs scale of hardness, it stands at 7 out of 10.
- Non-porous: As an engineered material, quartz is non-porous. Liquids cannot seep beneath the surface creating the chance for not only physical damage but also bacterial growth.
- Stain-resistance: The non-porous surface makes quartz countertops extremely resistant to a variety of stains.
- Low maintenance: The non-porous surface and the material’s durability result in little need for maintenance.
Choosing Quartz
While quartz countertops are more expensive than other types, they are cost-effective in several ways. With little-to-no maintenance and no need to seal, quartz reduces ongoing costs. When all factors are taken into consideration, a quartz countertop is often the less expensive option.
