Are There Variations in the Quality of Quartz Counters?

It’s not surprising to learn that celebrities such as Hollywood actress Christina Applegate and renowned Chef Ludo Lefebvre choose Caesarstone for their quartz countertops. After all, this is a brand often recognized for its quality. However, not all quartz slabs are created the same. There’s a basic process that manufacturers such as Caesarstone and Cambria have been using for decades, but there are certain things they do to improve the quality of their brands. Here's a brief explanation of quality as it relates to quartz fabrication. Quartz Blend Ratio Breton, the Italian company that invented the quartz manufacturing process, calls for a blend of materials with at least 90 percent natural quartz and resin. Over the years, higher quality manufacturing standards called for natural-stone fragments to be as high as 93 percent. Quartz countertops that are of lower quality may go as low as 70 percent natural-stone fragments, which means you end up with slabs that are 30 percent synthetic resins and pigments. Slab Consistency Established quartz brands are known to manufacture slabs and tiles that aren’t just attractive but also flawless. When you see quartz countertops that sport different shades across the slab, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s lower-quality quartz. It’s often based on what the manufacturer is trying to create. Choice of Materials There’s more to quartz quality than just following the Breton manufacturing process. There’s also the matter of where the crushed stone fragments are obtained and how much silicon dioxide crystals they contain. Respected manufacturers form agreements with quarries where fine quartz is extracted to ensure the fragments they use are high in silica. Heat Resistance Low-quality quartz provided by unregulated companies could have many flaws that increase the risk of damage from heat. Regardless of the type of quartz you have, you should never set a hot pan or pot directly on your countertop. Always use a trivet or hot pad for protection against damage. Lower-quality quartz can etch, and to protect against this, we recommend sealing the lower-quality quartz. When you have high-quality quartz, it’s important to care for it properly so you can maintain its quality for many years to come. Luckily, this is easy to do with a combination quartz cleaner and polish such as Granite Gold Quartz Brite®. Whenever you see budget kitchen counters that are prefabricated and include their own quartz countertops, such as off-brands that are premade for DIY installation, there’s a chance their quality may not be high enough for high-volume food preparation. Small holes on the surface of the slab could allow heat to enter, thus increasing the chance of damage. For tips on quartz and natural-stone care, reach out to Granite Gold® today. All of our products are safe to use on all quartz and natural-stone surfaces, including granite, marble, and travertine. Call one of our friendly and knowledgeable representatives today at 1-800-475-STONE (7866). Make sure to follow us on Instagram for additional tips and information on caring for quartz and natural stone.