The Complete Guide to Choosing Quartz Countertops

Homeowners are increasingly opting for quartz countertops due to their durability and versatility. This engineered stone is primarily made from natural quartz crystals mined and ground into dust, fused with polymer resins under high heat and pressure.

The result is a non-porous countertop surface resistant to bacteria, stains, and scorching. It’s the perfect choice for busy households and investment properties.

Color and Pattern

Homeowners can choose from many colors and patterns with quartz, surpassing the natural stone option.

Quartz countertops St. Louis combines 93% quartz crystals and 7% poly-resin materials fused under extreme pressure to create a highly durable material. It is more forgiving than other countertop materials, which can take a beating and resist scratches, etching, and cracks. This material is ideal for households with children or those who consume large amounts of food, as it is highly durable and reduces the need for frequent maintenance or replacement.

There are plenty of earth-tone quartz slabs to choose from, but there are also options with brighter blue, green, orange, and pure white hues. The pattern and color of a quartz countertop can enhance a room’s overall appearance.

Light and Dark

Quartz is one of the most durable materials on the planet. Its hardness score of 7 means it can resist damage better than most other countertop materials. It is an excellent choice for families, as dropping hard or heavy items on your countertops rarely leaves a mark.

The color of your quartz countertops can impact your kitchen or bathroom’s overall look and feel. You can choose from light or dark shades that complement your cabinet color, decorating style, and existing features.

For example, Arctic White is a snowy white quartz with mild patterning that complements various colors and design styles. Consider a dark grey like Merope with subtle brown undertones if you want to add depth to your kitchen. This quartz looks stunning against darker cabinets and works well in contemporary kitchens with metal accents or a modern design theme.

Texture and Finish

Quartz worktops are designed to resemble natural stone while providing the advantages of an artificial material. It includes stain resistance. Unlike granite and marble, which have tiny pores that can be stained by oils, acids, and other substances, quartz is non-porous and resists staining.

In addition, quartz is heat-resistant. That makes it a good choice for kitchens that often see hot pots and pans being set down on the counter.

Quartz countertop surfaces can be given a variety of textures and finishes. One popular option is a matte finish that conceals crumbs, smudges, and streaks, making it easy to keep clean. Another option is a suede finish that offers enhanced texture and depth to the surface. Both options are available in various colors to complement any design scheme.

Undertones and Accents

Quartz countertops are artificial, so they don’t have the one-of-a-kind look of natural stone. However, the unique blend of crushed crystals and resin makes them much more robust than granite or marble. That durability and strength make them more appealing to homeowners as they can withstand much damage.

White Zeus Extreme is a snowy white color that matches well with light or dark cabinetry and can highlight colorful backsplashes. Arctic White has neutral patterning and accents that match various colors, including gray and muted brown—Lyra’s soft gray tones and mild patterning complement traditional and Mid-Century Modern kitchen styles.

Quartzite is another type of natural stone that has gained popularity recently due to its simplistic patterns and soothing hues. With a MOHS hardness rating of 7-8, it’s even more complicated than granite and provides a durable countertop surface. A black-based quartzite like Eternal Calcatta Classique offers bold contrast and adds a dramatic touch to a contemporary kitchen design.