Often considered as an alternative to granite, quartz surfaces are a popular choice for kitchen countertops. More durable and long-lasting than granite, quartz is one of the hardest materials in the world, making it a viable choice for a kitchen countertop.
Because quartz countertops are manufactured, the color and pattern possibilities are limitless — including varieties that are almost identical to granite or marble. Brands include Cambria Quartz, Silestone, Avanza, CaesarStone, LG Viatera and DuPont Zodiac.
Perhaps one of the biggest benefits of quartz surfaces is that they are stain- and heat-resistant, making them easy to maintain. The non-porous quality of quartz also makes it highly resistant to mold and bacteria contamination.
Pros
- Samples and delivered product the same (what you see is what you get)
- Mid-range cost
- No sealing needed
- Non-porous
- Resistant to stains and scratches
Cons
- Seams can be more visible
- Color and pattern consistency can look artificial
