Advantages and Disadvantages of using Quartz Worktops

When you are thinking about updating your kitchen, you need to take a lot into account. The process of choosing the right products to create the kitchen of your dreams can be very stressful. When it comes to installing a new kitchen worktop, Quartz kitchen worktops are gaining in popularity these days.

By knowing the pro’s and con’s of using Quartz worktops, you will have a clear understanding of whether quartz kitchen worktops are right for you:

Pros

•    Non-permeable

Quartz worktops are manufactured from engineered stone, a man made material with many of the qualities of natural rock. Particles of quartz and other minerals are bonded with a plastic resin to create a hard, non-porous composite which machines and polishes like granite. Quartz worktops are easy to clean as they do not allow liquids to seep in and cause stains.  They can actually be better at resisting stains than natural stone worktops.  Because they do not have pores they inhibit the growth of bacteria and other micro-organisms and so they can be considered to be more hygienic.

•    Resistance to heat

Quartz offers substantial resistance to heat when compared to the alternative synthetic options. They do not bend or buckle when touched by hot frying pans or pots.

•    Resistance to crack

They are more impact-resistant than many other types of materials used in kitchen worktops because of the presence of the flexible and elastic resin in between the crushed quartz pieces. Whilst they are scratch resistant, in fact it is not advisable to use sharp knives directly over the quartz countertop as they can blunt the knives!

•    Easy to maintain

Unlike marble and granite they do not require sealing. Other than the regular cleaning, you need not do anything to maintain the quartz worktops.

Cons

•    Costly

It is a high-end product with unique qualities. It can initially be thought to be expensive however the ease of maintenance, its longevity and hygienic benefits makes up for its upfront cost. In the longer term quartz worktops can prove to be a sound investment

•    Engineered material

For those who love the patterns and colours of natural products like marble and granite, a quartz worktop might be a disappointment.

If you are interested in buying Quartz worktop, contact us at Affordable Granite to find out more.

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How to Choose the Perfect Granite Colour

The great thing about choosing the perfect granite kitchen worktop is that you are free to choose from a huge variety of colour tones and patterns that elevate your kitchen to a truly elegant space.

Here are some ideas that will lend your space that polished look:

•    If you’ve planned to have black, white or neutral toned walls and cabinets, a great match would be to pair it with white granite or quartz kitchen worktops.

•    With both granite and quartz worktops, you can opt for marbled and striped patterns. Pattern can undoubtedly add to the character of the space.

•    Beige granite offers a warm and luxurious feel, especially when matched with cream coloured walls and brown wooden cabinets. Both granite and quartz worktops in beige look great with flecks and veins of brown, black, grey or other dark shades.

•    Black worktops have a modern, practical feel. Particularly suited to steel cabinets or refrigerators. This granite with specks of silver or green pairs equally well with warmer wall tones also. Black granite, quartz or stone worktops have a great shine to them, which appeals to most homeowners. A black worktop also pairs well with other counter-top materials such as wood, steel, or even granite of other colours.

These combinations are just tips to help you get started. So go ahead and explore different combinations, you’re sure to find the perfect one to suit your home.    

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Choosing the Right Kitchen Worktop

 If you are creating a new kitchen, there are several things that you need to buy – worktops, sinks and more. Above all, selecting the right kitchen worktops can be a challenging task. This is because there are several things that you need to keep in mind and the choice available is huge

If you are fortunate enough to have an unlimited budget, an opulent natural stone or granite worktop is suitable for you. Listed below is a brief guide on some of the most popular materials  used to make kitchen worktops:

1.    Granite Kitchen Worktops – These worktops are ultimate for any kitchen. They add class and give a high quality look. Extracted directly from the mountainside where it has laid for several million years, the granite used to make kitchen worktops is sturdy, durable and attractive. Working in a kitchen with a granite worktop is a pleasant and luxurious experience.

2.    Quartz Kitchen Worktops – Similar to their granite counterparts, quartz worktops add a polished and refined look to your kitchen. They enhance the overall sophistication and are visually appealing. Moreover, they comprise 90% of inorganic materials in the form of silicone and quartz.

3.    Stone Worktops – Stone worktops are highly popular and affordable. You do not have to pay a fortune to get these installed in your kitchen. All you need to do is choose the right range to suit your needs.

4.    Solid Wood Kitchen Worktops – These worktops give a unique finish to the kitchen. Additionally, they add a natural feel to the overall ambiance.

There are several tasks that you perform on your kitchen worktop on a daily basis. Kitchen worktops are also exposed to many of different elements (hot and cold) and therefore, maintenance of the same can challenging. Try and remember to wipe off any stains immediately as this will and keep your worktop in tip top condition.

The worktop you select will greatly influence the overall look and feel of your kitchen and indeed the way it works. So it’s worth taking the time to ensure you make the right choice.

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