For many of us, the kitchen is the hub of activity. It is where meals are made—and sometimes eaten—and functions as a gathering spot for family and friends. So as the epicenter of so much action, your kitchen deserves to be functional and stylish—and that all starts with your countertops.
Lately, the countertop surface that’s on the lips and wish lists of designers and home buyers alike is quartz. But before we clue you in on why it’s our current favorite kitchen surface, let’s look at the facts.
But while marble or granite is simply cut from the earth, quartz countertops are engineered slabs made of approximately 90% ground natural quartz fused with polymer resins and pigments.
The average price is around $50 to over $70 per square foot (not including installation), and the actual price you pay depends on the brand, region, design, finish, thickness, and edge profile.
Quartz can be sourced from a number of places: kitchen design showrooms, stores such as Ikea or the Home Depot, and local stone yards that handle their own fabrication and installation.
Contemplating quartz for your kitchen? Here are some reasons to consider this dazzling countertop surface.
It’s extremely durable
Quartz is one of the hardest minerals on Earth—even harder than granite or marble. It’ll last as long as your kitchen, and many quartz countertop manufacturers provide warranties ranging from 10 to 15 years to a lifetime. It is also scratch-resistant and won’t crack or chip.
Geller says quartz can withstand heat fairly well. However, experts warn to avoid placing hot pots and pans from the stove or oven directly onto the countertop.
