What Is Quartz? Is it Better Than Granite?

Quartz is a naturally-occurring mineral found in the earth's crust. It is extremely hard and gets its name from the German word "quarz" which literally means "hard." Quartz is much harder than most natural materials, including granite - which makes it an excellent choice for kitchen and bathroom countertops.
 

Benefits of Quartz Countertops

Unlike natural stone slab countertops, quartz countertops are not made of a single slab of quartz. Instead, they are engineered from crushed quartz stones, resin, and pigments. This gives quartz countertops some unique benefits over other countertops.

1. Durable and Long-Lasting

Quartz countertops are known for being incredibly durable and long-lasting. They are resistant to scratches, chips, cracks, water, and heat, making them durable enough to withstand daily wear and tear. The exact lifespan of a quartz countertop will depend on several factors, but most homeowners find their quartz countertops last 15 years or longer.

2. Increases Your Home's Value

If you're looking to add value to your home, upgrading outdated countertops to sleek and modern quartz countertops is a great way to do so. New countertops help refresh the space and can make your home more appealing to potential buyers.

Many homebuyers love the beauty and durability quartz countertops provide and are willing to pay a little more for this must-have fixture.

3. Low-Maintenance

The unique manufacturing process of quartz countertops leaves them with a sealed, non-porous surface. This means they don't absorb water, stain, harbor bacteria, or require lots of maintenance.Other stone countertops need to be resealed regularly in order to keep their shine and prevent staining, but this isn't a concern for quartz countertops.Quartz countertops are also very easy to clean and don't require any special equipment. Simply wipe them down using a damp cloth and gentle soap to keep them radiant and looking their best.

4. Endless Color Options

Naturally-occurring quartz is usually white or colorless. But quartz countertops come in a wide variety of colors to complement every bathroom or kitchen design. At Seconds & Surplus, you'll find a wide variety of quartz countertop colors, including:
 

• White
• Black
• Gold
• Gray
• Tan
• Brown

Specific colors can help you achieve a specific look or feel. For example, white calacatta quartz create a timeless, clean, and modern look, whereas black quartz creates a more bold, moody, or dramatic look. On the other hand, tan is a popular choice for quartz countertops for kitchens because it lends a warm and inviting feel.

How Much Do Quartz Countertops Cost?

The cost of quartz countertops will vary depending on the size of your kitchen or bathroom and the type of quartz you choose. Rare or hard-to-find colors and veining patterns will cost more than standard colors and patterns. Quartz countertops typically cost anywhere from $50 to $100 per square foot. But at Seconds & Surplus, we have tons of high-quality discount quartz countertops for sale.