The kitchen is an important area of every home. After all, it’s a place where we cook, eat and even socialise. So, this multi-purpose space, where kids also do homework and parents even make grocery lists or sort out utility bills, is often used and abused more than other areas in a house.
Therefore, the work surface or countertop of a kitchen must be durable and tough to bear all sorts of impact while maintaining its aesthetic appeal. If we think about one of the best kitchen worktops that can take all the abuses and daily wearing is the Quartz. The quartz kitchen worktops have gained popularity over the years, all thanks to the unique characteristics and functionality of this material.
What is quartz?
Quartz countertops are engineered using more than 90% natural quartz and 7% of resins and polymers to bind the materials together to give a smooth and pleasant finish. These worktops are formed in large slabs, measuring 3050mm x 1440mm, and further cut using special stonemasons to fit any custom design.
Why quartz is so popular?
The good quality quartz kitchen worktops are non-porous, harder and more flexible than most natural stones like marble and granite. Its low porosity makes it highly resistant to absorb moisture. Hence, it doesn’t stain or grow bacteria on its surface that easily. Unlike most natural stones, this engineered worktop material ensures there are no visible flaws or cracks on its surface. This makes it an extremely scratch-resistant and durable material that’s many homeowners and designers across the globe love.
Cost of quartz worktop
The final cost of a quartz worktop is based on the cost of fabrication and cost of the material. The cost of fabrication lies in the complexity and design of the installation, as well as the time and skill needed to create the desired surface finish.
However, the cost of a premium quality quartz brand surfaces is somewhere between 15% and 25% of the total kitchen cost. To be precise, it is approximately £2,000 to £3,000.
How to take care of quartz countertops?
Cleaning
The quartz countertops are highly resistant to scratches, stains and impacts. Therefore, they require less cleaning and maintenance to maintain their perfect finish. Generally, all you need to do is clean the surface with warm soapy water and clean cloth to wipe off the countertop. After that, buff dry the surface using a clean dry cloth. However, never use an abrasive cleaner or scrub pad for cleaning, as it could damage the surface in the long run.
Upkeep
For everyday upkeep, make sure that you immediately clean any spillage, no matter it’s a beverage or a food item. It will help you avoid any dry stains or damage to the surface. Also, use hot pads or trivets before placing hot pots or pans on their surface.
Conclusion:
Quartz kitchen worktops are versatile for a home and can last for decades without much effort or maintenance. However, you need to be careful with the upkeep of this durable worktop material to ensure that it lasts a lifetime. Hope, this quick guide gives you all the information you need about quartz countertops and how to look after them in a busy home.
