When you buy a home, it is an investment in your future.
As such, it is commonplace when buying a home that has been previously inhabited to give it a bit of a makeover. This is not only to help you and your family to feel more relaxed but can also go a long way towards increasing the home’s value.
In 2023, there are many ways to do this with relative ease; one of the most common options is to install solar panels or invest in new flooring for the passage of your home or the kitchen. Some people have even opted to make their homes a ‘smart home,’ linking their security, lighting, and heating to a smart device like Alexa or Google Home.
Of course, if you are looking for a more timeless investment in your property, a key room to start in is the kitchen. Yes, upgrading your kitchen to have new appliances is another way to increase the value of the property, along with some brand-new flooring, but what about the worktops?
If you have ever been to a home that has recently had a kitchen makeover, you will have undoubtedly seen brand-new worktops, usually made from stone or wood, that can really pull the room together while also adding value.
In this article, one type of worktop material, quartz, will be looked at to give you an idea of the benefits of having this installed in your home, which goes far beyond simply increasing the value. Great!
So, beginning at the top, what is quartz, and why is it ideal in the kitchen as a worktop? Read on for more information!
What is Quartz?
Quartz is a mineral that is found in abundance in the Earth’s crust. It is a chemical compound made up of silicon and oxygen atoms with the chemical formula SiO2. Quartz is classified as a silicate mineral and is a member of the tectosilicate family.
As a stone, quartz is an engineered material made by combining about 90-95% natural quartz crystal with other materials, including resins, polymers, and pigments. This combination is then formed into slabs using a manufacturing process that involves heating and compressing the materials together.
Great! So, what does that mean in real life?
It means that it is a hardy and attractive stone that needs to be specially shaped to fit into a room like a kitchen and that quartz worktops are an attractive and valuable commodity to have in your home.
So, why is it worth investing in a kitchen worktop made of quartz?
Durability
Quartz kitchen countertops or overlays are highly durable due to their composition of around 90% quartz, which is one of the hardest minerals on Earth. This makes them resistant to scratches, chips, and cracks. Unlike natural stone, quartz is not porous and thus does not require sealing or resealing. This makes it a great option for busy households or high-traffic areas, where spills, stains, and scratches are a common occurrence.
Aesthetic Appeal
Quartz countertops come in a variety of colours, patterns, and finishes. As a result, they can be customised to match any kitchen style or design. Additionally, because quartz is an engineered stone, it can be made to look like natural stone or even other materials, such as concrete or wood. This allows homeowners to achieve the look they desire without the high price tag or maintenance requirements of natural stone.
If, for example, you want a kitchen that has a dark stone finish that resembles marble, quartz is an ideal material.
Low Maintenance
Quartz countertops are virtually maintenance-free. Unlike naturally occurring stones, they do not require regular sealing or polishing to maintain their appearance. They are also resistant to staining, making them easy to clean with soap and water. Additionally, quartz is non-porous, so it does not harbour bacteria, mould, or mildew, making it a great option for households with young children or individuals with allergies. This material is also suitable for kitchens where a lot of raw meat is handled, as there is minimal chance of food poisoning developing due to the transfer of bacteria.
However, if you do spot a crack or a chip in your quartz kitchen countertop, it is always best to call in a professional team to repair it, as attempting to do so by yourself can lead to more damage being caused!
Resistant To Heat and Chemicals
Quartz is highly resistant to heat and chemicals, making it a great option for kitchens where spills and hot pots are common. Unlike natural stone, quartz will not be damaged by exposure to acidic or alkaline substances, such as vinegar or lemon juice. However, to ensure your quartz countertop lasts a long time, it is generally a good idea to clean it with a gentle cleaner, such as simple soap and warm water. Always wipe down the surface after cleaning to get rid of any dampness, as this can cause the areas to become slippery or even water stained.
Longevity
Quartz kitchen tops are designed to last for many years. They are resistant to wear and tear, which means they will maintain their appearance and functionality for years. Additionally, many manufacturers offer warranties on their quartz countertops, which provides homeowners with peace of mind knowing that their investment is protected.
As well as this, the appearance of a quartz countertop is somewhat timeless, allowing it to stay fashionable in a home for decades without needing to be refitted.
Points To Remember
When you are looking to have a quartz countertop installed, there are some key things to remember to ensure the process goes off without a hitch.
- Always make sure that it is installed by a team who are trained in shaping and fitting quartz.
- Be sure to check the reviews of the team you choose to see how their customer service is rated and their responses to concerns.
- Cost is an important variable too. Quartz is not cheap and can range in price per square foot. So, if it is cheap, it probably isn’t quartz!
