If you are remodelling your bathroom or kitchen, you might want to add a classic touch with a splash of finesse to add glamour.
Your kitchen or bathroom is generally a high-usage and high-maintenance area, so you always want to invest in the highest quality materials to ensure that your solid stone worktops give you a long-lasting finish, barring any everyday mishaps. That’s where quartz worktops come in.
Quartz worktops are considered a durable and low-maintenance material while still providing the extra class it deserves. In this guide, we will uncover the latest trends in quartz worktops while providing all the reasons why you should choose a quartz worktop for your kitchen or bathroom.
What Are Quartz Worktops Made From?
Quartz is a mineral that is present in metamorphic and sedimentary rocks. It is also one of the hardest minerals, next to granite. You might have noticed pieces of quartz glimmering on the shoreline if you have taken a stroll on the beach.
Although quartz is a rigid, durable material, it still requires the human touch to transform it into worktop surfaces suitable for everyday use. To make quartz usable as a worktop, it must be bonded with binders or plastic resin.
However, this does not alter a quartz worktop’s natural state or quality. Quartz worktops contain approximately 90-95% quartz after processing. High-quality worktops have a ratio of 93% quartz and 7% polymer.
Is Quartz Good For A Worktop?
A worktop is one of the essential aspects to consider when remodelling or designing the interior of your kitchen or bathroom. After all, you will be using your worktop almost every day.
Furthermore, if you are investing a significant portion of money into your kitchen or bathroom, you want your home to be “dressed to impress.”
Quartz worktops are stylish, with a stunning marble or grain effect and quietly elegant colour. Quartz worktops are available in either a thick and chunky design or slim and sleek.
If you consider yourself to be a “master chef” in the kitchen, then a quartz worktop is the perfect choice since it is incredibly durable and low-maintenance.
Over time, some materials decline, visually or functionally, and might even become cracked or scratched, which can be disappointing.
However, quartz worktops are hard-wearing and provide the ideal solution for a worktop. They are bound together to create an attractive and durable work surface.
Quartz is more rigid and stronger than other popular choices, like granite. A quartz worktop can withstand twice the impact of granite and has four times the flexural strength (the bending stress it can undergo before breaking).
Quartz worktops are heat, scratch, stain, mould and mildew resistant, which is a hygienic choice if using a quartz worktop in the kitchen.
Is A Quartz Worktop Better Than Granite?
Granite and quartz offer stunning beauty and undeniable durability, but which material reigns supreme for a durable, elegant worktop?
In terms of appearance, granite is available in multiple colours and patterns due to how it is formed, when the molten granite is cooled and solidified. If you are looking for a subtle compliment to your kitchen, there is a limited selection of granite worktops.
On the other hand, quartz has exploded in popularity due to its striking appearance. Quartz has the look of stone, allowing homeowners to customise the design.
While granite might offer several appealing options, you might have to search long and hard before finding the right worktop to suit your colour scheme. With quartz, there are almost limitless options, making the selection process for the right worktop easier.
In terms of pricing, the average cost of purchasing a granite worktop with installation costs ranges from £1,890. You can save money on your granite worktop by purchasing from a wholesaler. However, you might still require a professional to fabricate and install the worktop.
Depending on the style and edging of a quartz worktop, the average price of installing a quartz countertop ranges from £1,350 to £8,100.
If you consider yourself a DIY-er, you could do some of the initial work yourself to save money; however, since engineered quartz is heavier than other stone surfaces, you should consult a professional installer.
If you are installing a granite worktop, using indigenous stone instead of imported granite is recommended. The transportation costs for a granite worktop from Italy can become extremely costly and should only be considered if you are looking for a high-quality worktop.
On the other hand, since a quartz worktop is engineered, it tends to be more environmentally friendly than granite, especially if you use a locally manufactured stone. Using a quartz worktop manufactured locally in the UK will save on transportation costs compared to the high transportation cost of an imported one.
Granite worktops are high maintenance and must be regularly cleaned with soap and water or a mild household cleaner. Some oils and acids tend to stain, so you should avoid using harsh chemicals. To ensure the longevity of a granite worktop, consider getting it resealed at least once a year.
When it comes to a quartz worktop, the solid nature of quartz means there is little maintenance, and there is no need to reseal it, unlike a granite worktop. Quartz worktops should be cleaned and kept free of spills and stains and regularly cleaned with soap and water.
How Much Are Quartz Worktops In The UK?
You may have wondered by now how much a quartz worktop will set you back if you reside in the UK. The pricing factor is always the main contributor to helping us make an informed choice.
For a small kitchen with a 3m2 (three square metres) quartz worktop, the price ranges from £675 to £2,700. A medium kitchen with a 6m2 (six square metres) quartz worktop, the price varies from £1,350 to £5,400.
Finally, for a large kitchen with a 9m2 (nine square metres) quartz worktop, the price ranges from £2,025 to £8,100. As expected, bigger worktops cost more; the same goes for the installation.
In addition to the size of the worktop, you also have the choice of its thickness. A thicker worktop will affect the price since more material is required to construct the worktop.
For example, 20mm quartz worktop prices can vary between £220 and £900 per square metre, including labour and installation costs.
Finally, avoid poor-quality quartz worktops at all costs. If you are looking for a good finish for your worktop, do not compromise on quality, as you want a worktop that adds a sense of class and style to your home.
While a cheap quartz worktop could save you money, it might not provide the same longevity and durability as a high-quality surface.
Suppliers And Manufacturers Of Quartz Worktops In The UK
When deciding on quartz worktops for your UK home, selecting the right supplier or manufacturer is crucial. To navigate this diverse landscape, understanding your options is key. Let’s explore a few leading players in the quartz game.
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Cambria: Known for their innovative and high-quality designs, Cambria boasts a strong UK presence, ensuring easy access to their stunning collections.
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Silestone: With a dedicated network of distributors and a vast array of colours and styles, Silestone is a popular choice for those seeking versatility and an established reputation.
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Caesarstone: Renowned for their premium quartz surfaces and excellent service, Caesarstone partners with trusted UK suppliers, making their luxurious options readily available.
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Cimstone: Affordability doesn’t mean sacrificing style – Cimstone’s diverse colour palette and competitive pricing make it a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
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Dekton: For those seeking a unique blend of strength and beauty, Dekton’s cutting-edge technology and select UK distributors offer exciting possibilities.
Final Thoughts
Finally, before settling on a quartz worktop for your home, you should collect multiple quotes from suppliers, including installation costs.
If you reside in the UK, there are several suppliers and installers of quartz worktops, so you should always do your homework before making a final decision. Choosing a high-quality worktop can be a time-consuming process; however, in the end, it is worth the effort when you find one that is of an acceptable price and quality.
