By renewing your countertops, you can quickly and relatively inexpensively spruce up your kitchen and make it the most modern, focal point of your home. And one great way to do this is by using a bright white quartz countertop.
A really easy way to enhance the appeal of a traditional and somewhat old-fashioned kitchen is with a few sparkling white quartz countertops.
But why the bright white quartz on your kitchen countertop?
First of all, it is one of the hardest and most durable minerals found in nature and therefore one that can easily withstand all the hazards that can arise in kitchens and bathrooms.
Secondly, quartz countertops are available in many different eye-catching styles and colors, ranging from apple green to the exact opposite fire engine red.
Bright white quartz countertops: What you need to know about them
Once you find the right colors for your quartz countertop, the look of your kitchen will completely change.
Image source: Ebstone
Depending on your needs for matching your quartz kitchen countertops to the rest of the home, you can even opt for a creamy, sparkling piece or order one that fits the exact needs of your kitchen.
In short, the quartz color combines the beautiful look of stone with the practical properties of granite, and at a very reasonable price. If you do a lot of research online and in your local stores, you may find that the cost of quartz countertops is actually not as high as you first thought.
Manufacturing process
Image source: Sticks and Stones Design Group inc.
Unlike stone countertops, quartz countertops are manufactured and manufactured in factories and are at least 90% pure ground mineral.
The remaining 10% goes to various polymers and pigments, mainly resin, which binds and holds the crystals together and therefore determines the different colors of quartz countertops.
The amount of polymer in your countertop quartz will depend on how finely the quartz has been ground – coarse pieces typically produce a mottled appearance, while finely ground pieces produce a smoother appearance.
In some cases, the manufacturer may choose to add limited amounts of metal chips and recycled glass to the quartz-polymer mixture to make the final product non-porous and scratch-resistant.
Image source: Cipriani Remodeling Solutions
The component of a quartz composite countertop that must be present in order for the piece to remain sealed is resin.
As you've seen so far, quartz countertops share many similarities with their high-quality granite counterparts and offer nearly the same performance as long as you apply a protective coating every year, so the quartz colors will last longer.
At this point, you're probably wondering why quartz hasn't been popular in the past, even though you know how good it is.
The answer is that back then, people weren't offered the color and pattern variations that they are today, and so there was no practical reason to replace natural stone with quartz. You only have to visit the dedicated countertop section of Home Depot to realize how far the industry has come in this regard, both in terms of design and technical standards.
Image source: Artistic Renovations of Ohio LLC
Today, manufacturers offer an almost unlimited number of swirls, flecks and random patterns to make quartz countertops unique, and polish them with great finishes including sandblasting, grinding and embossing treatments. Hence the wide range of prices in quartz countertops.
Essentially, this means that any store near me that sells quartz countertops will have something to suit any lover of textured slate, matte limestone, or glossy granite.
The best part of the story is that quartz countertops are likely to fit any budget, maintenance expectations, and personal style.
Pros and Cons of Bright White Quartz Countertops
Image source: Michael Burr Design
The concept of using white quartz for kitchen countertops is relatively new but already has millions of followers around the world who call it the best and most reliable kitchen countertop solution.
They love the natural stone look of their white kitchen worktops and praise their durability and easy maintenance.
Somehow we think quartz kitchen countertops are here to stay as their good sides far outweigh the bad. Black quartz is also an option, but it goes particularly well with large rooms with lots of space and natural light. The bright white quartz will make an excellent impression in your kitchen.
The benefits of bright white quartz countertops
Image source: Ann Lowengart Interiors
The biggest advantage of a quartz countertop is its durability, as this material is considered one of the least prone to damage and most durable kitchen options on the market.
In fact, any reputable store will offer you a special warranty for your quartz countertop.
Quartz countertops are mostly made of pure quartz (93-95%) and it is precisely the hardness of the crystal mineral that makes them durable, which is a great feature for a kitchen countertop, especially considering the average cost of quartz countertops.
Their properties are strikingly reminiscent of diamonds, the most durable material in the world.
Another advantage of such kitchen worktops lies in their processing: almost all worktops of this type are manufactured in a vacuum and have an acid-base surface that supports their non-porous properties and makes them corrosion-resistant.
Image source: Cliff and Evans Ltd.
Additionally, not all quartz countertops cost a fortune. There are many affordable countertops that fit any budget and still offer the best value for money. With quartz, you don't have to compromise on looks or functionality to get a good deal.
In addition, quartz requires minimal maintenance compared to other materials. To keep it in good condition, all you need to do is wipe it down from time to time.
Quartz countertops are scratch and burn resistant and protected against corrosion and water damage. However, we recommend using safety pads when placing very hot items on them. As usual, kitchen countertops require special care and attention.
Quartz countertop brands offer products with a safe texture that is smooth and does not allow the development of pathogens and bacteria, which is why they are so suitable in high humidity environments, especially in the bathroom and kitchen.
Last but not least, remember that quartz is an environmentally friendly material.
The disadvantages of quartz countertops
As good as quartz is, it is processed and cannot look as natural and organic as granite, for example. If you want your countertop to be a replica of natural stone, you should consider granite. A granite countertop is always a good alternative in this regard.
While quartz has similar properties to granite, it cannot withstand heat. You can still place hot pans and pots on it, but as with glass and concrete, you need to be careful.
Another consideration is that installing your quartz countertop can take a while, so if you're in a hurry to get your kitchen finished, you might want to look elsewhere. The installation process usually requires professional help, but that's not such a big downside considering that it can be done for almost all types of countertops, including any cheap countertop.
Appearance and maintenance aspects
Image source: BedfordBrooks Design Inc.
The best thing about quartz is that it imitates natural stone, so it doesn't stop you from incorporating it into any design scenario. It is also available in light colors, such as gray countertops.
If you need to use several different pieces and combine them to create large kitchen islands, choose darker colors so that the differences are less noticeable.
What makes quartz stand out most compared to other materials is its low maintenance, which is why many homeowners make it a priority in their interior design. Especially if the countertops from the color chart are beige, you should ask if any special maintenance is required when purchasing.
There are some drawbacks to consider (price can be an issue too!), but if you're looking for something that will last for many, many years, quartz is the way to go.
Now that we have summarized the main advantages and disadvantages of quartz countertops, you can easily decide whether they meet your needs or not.
Image source: Malbec Homes & Renovations Inc.
As for price, expect to pay a little over $50 per square foot, depending on the type and location.
Instead of jumping to conclusions, do some research online and compare prices in stores, especially when looking at countertops for sale. In addition to getting fair deals, research will give you access to wonderful ideas that you probably would never have thought of on your own.
Overall, quartz has many more advantages than disadvantages and we believe it is a smart choice for any kitchen.
Ideas for combining your white quartz countertop
Image source: Avo Construction Llc
More than ever before, kitchens are becoming meaningful family gathering places where people not only prepare meals but also share experiences.
For many homeowners, the kitchen is where they start their day, play with their children, chat with friends, or do work-related activities.
All this requires that the kitchen must be not only practical but also beautiful, so a Calacatta gold countertop is an elegant addition to your kitchen.
Image source: Sears Architects
At the same time, we all know how many creative homeowners like to compete with ultimate design solutions and how seriously they take ultimate decor solutions in their kitchens.
The surface they most often use to demonstrate good taste is the countertop, which these days must not only be durable and functional but also aesthetically impressive. Hence the high price of quartz countertops.
One material that meets all of these requirements is quartz, as it is one of the most durable natural materials for countertops and also looks luxurious.
It has many of the good qualities of granite, meaning it won't scratch, stain or burn, and you can maintain it by wiping it down occasionally.
In short, quartz is friendly, bright and timeless, and works equally well with traditional and modern kitchen decor. The average quartz offering at the hardware store may also offer many affordable and practical alternatives.
Quartz countertops with teal
This is a unique, artistic idea for bold kitchen owners who are afraid to upgrade their muted teal walls with sleek white cabinets and countertops. As a final result, the kitchen will look larger, brighter and very modern.
Square and simple
Image source: Darren James Interiors
In addition to the restrained color scheme, modern kitchens are also characterized by their simplicity and the multitude of angular and straight-lined elements.
What you can see there are black laminate floors juxtaposed with sleek white cabinets, stainless steel appliances and a shocking lack of decoration other than fancy textures and high-quality artwork. A light gray color suits any type of shape and interior.
The background and look of these kitchens are just ideal for a clean white quartz countertop that will enhance the high-tech industrial look of the entire space. Some faux granite countertops can also be a good idea, especially if your budget is tight.
Quartz worktops in country-style kitchens
Image source: Danenberg Design
While it is true that quartz countertops always look minimalist and modern, that is no reason not to use them in a farmhouse style setting.
There are many beautiful examples of feminine kitchens where the absolute vintage feel is broken up by contemporary worktops and the result is always stunning, especially when they come in exquisite colours such as Calcutta gold or cream.
Charming worktops in country and contemporary style
Image source: Vartanian Custom Cabinets
Why not dress up a simple white countertop with an island waterfall on a modern marble backsplash? We recommend Carrara marble as its diamond pattern can add timeless elegance to your kitchen. Plus, Silestone offers many elegant options for your elegant home.
Quartz and wood
Image source: Kristin Petro Interiors, Inc.
Quartz and wood are a total contrast in their essence, which is why we believe they look absolutely charming in the same room, even in the kitchen. Sometimes this gives a better effect than the simple black quartz countertops.
In the kitchen, you can combine a smooth quartz countertop with a bold, rustic kitchen island full of texture. Once you get used to it, it will be the best design idea you've ever had.
Black and white quartz countertops
Image source: Cabinet Sales Plus
A rule of thumb from traditional kitchens is that the countertop must match all visible surfaces and colors in the room (including kitchen islands, side countertops, cabinet doors, walls, etc.).
Luckily, we have long since left this concept of perfectionism behind us and learned to design stunning kitchens where it is precisely the imbalance that creates all the magic. You only have to look at Silestone worktops to get a full overview of the impressive offering in this regard.
For example, we can combine high-quality, elegant kitchens with black and white worktops, where the kitchen islands are decorated with inlaid silver patterns and graphics and the accessories come with various bold splashes of color.
Mid-century style quartz countertops
Although they fit well in a modern interior, quartz countertops can also look great in a mid-century style setting, especially when decorated in soft, relaxing shades of blue.
With quartz worktops
Image source: Denise Mitchell Interiors
The classic concept of assembling several white layers in a smooth countertop is an option you can't go wrong with. This way you will add extra brightness and cleanliness to your small kitchen and make it seem more spacious than it actually is. For this reason, white is often used for the walls, but also for the kitchen furniture.
Frequently Asked Questions About White Quartz Countertops
1. What is a white quartz countertop made of?
The mixture of natural quartz minerals and resin binders creates the durable and adaptable surface of a white quartz worktop.
2. What are the advantages of a white quartz countertop?
The durability, stain resistance and low maintenance of a white quartz countertop are just a few benefits. It is a flexible option for any kitchen or bathroom as it is also offered in numerous styles and patterns.
3. How durable is white quartz compared to other countertop materials?
The white quartz material is very robust and heat-resistant as well as stain and scratch resistant. It is less prone to chipping or cracking as it is more robust than natural stone such as granite and marble.
4. Can white quartz be used for outdoor countertops?
It is possible to use white quartz for outdoor countertops, but since not all types of quartz are suitable for outdoor use, it is important to choose a quartz material that is specifically made for outdoor use.
5. What maintenance does a white quartz countertop require?
White quartz countertops are easy to clean and maintain. Spills should be wiped up immediately to avoid stains and they should be cleaned regularly with a damp cloth and mild soap.
6. How resistant is white quartz to scratches, stains and heat?
White quartz is a great choice for high-traffic areas such as kitchens and bathrooms due to its exceptional scratch, stain and heat resistance. Cutting boards and coasters should be used to protect the surface as it is not completely protected from damage.
7. How does white quartz compare to granite or marble countertops?
Although they are often compared to granite and marble, white quartz countertops have some distinct advantages. Compared to natural stone, quartz is less maintenance-intensive, more durable, and comes in a wider variety of colors and patterns.
8. Can white quartz countertops be repaired if they become damaged?
If white quartz countertops are damaged, they can be repaired. A quartz repair kit can repair minor scratches and chips, but larger damage may need to be repaired by a professional.
9. What is the typical price range for white quartz countertops?
The price of white quartz countertops can vary depending on the quality of the material and the effort required for installation. Expect to pay an average cost of between $50 and $120 per square foot (including installation).
10. Are there different finishes for white quartz countertops, e.g. polished or honed?
Yes, white quartz countertops are available in a variety of finishes including polished, honed and leather-covered. A honed finish has a matte or satin appearance, while a polished finish is highly reflective and shiny. A leather-covered finish is particularly resistant to fingerprints and stains and has a rough, matte appearance.
Final Thoughts on White Quartz Countertops
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Quartz countertops can easily and quickly replace expensive granite countertops due to the many options available and the promise made to users of lower maintenance.
At the same time, quartz is a particularly durable material that is available in many colors and styles and is certainly suitable for a stunning and almost indestructible countertop.
Another peculiarity of quartz is that its properties are reminiscent of granite and not of natural stone. That is, it is a man-made material that comes in all colors, shapes and sizes.
Image source: Orange Coast Interior Design
Furniture pieces are made almost entirely of pure quartz, but some contain 7% polymer resin to make the product more colorful and heat resistant (up to 400 degrees).
The crystals come directly from nature, are ground into dust and then fused with resin to form a solid piece.
Essentially, a quartz countertop meets all your needs for a beautiful, durable and easy-to-maintain countertop. Luxury doesn't have to be sacrificed either, as quartz countertops are diverse enough in both style and price to suit any style or design concept.
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