When it comes to fulfilling the myriad expectations of kitchen worktops, quartz worktops tick all the right boxes. From visual allure, durability, and hygiene to heat resistance and water/stain resistance, quartz countertops are well-engineered to rank high on all these parameters. Yet, purchasing quartz should never be an impulse decision. There are numerous slab sizes, colours, patterns, finishes, and price points to choose from. Homeowners should conduct ample research, carefully list their requirements, and go through all the necessary purchase considerations.
Important Purchase Considerations for Quartz Worktops
Before searching ‘worktop suppliers near me’ on Google, having sufficient knowledge about quartz worktops and their installation is a prerequisite. Here is a 5-pronged approach for systematic purchase and installation
1. Understanding the Pros and Cons of Quartz Worktops
In its natural state, quartz is a crystalline mineral made of silica and other impurities. When engineered into quartz worktops, its hardness is further exemplified by purifying and grinding 90% mineral quartz. It combines suitably with the necessary resins and polymers to attain striking colours and patterns. The vacuum-vibration process ensures a final product that is extremely hard and durable. Quartz worktops are highly coveted for their longevity, fuss-free cleaning/maintenance, hygiene, and resistance to chipping/cracking. With a proper sealant, it is impervious to stains and water. The only downside is the slightly lower resistance to high temperatures. Hence, it is advised that you use mats and runners before placing very hot utensils on quartz worktops.
2. Assessing the Countertop and Kitchen Specifications
Accurately measuring the intended worktop and its surroundings is necessary before deciding on any purchase. Measuring the required countertop length, breadth, height, overhang, cabinet dimensions, and support bracket measurements is a necessary step. Also, homeowners must ensure that the painting, plumbing, drainage, and mechanical work in the kitchen are completed before installation.
3. Trying Various Combinations for the Ideal Price-Quality Balance
Mixing and matching different slab sizes, colours, and quality often helps attain the required price-quality balance. A noteworthy advantage of opting for quartz worktops is the ability to opt for high-quality slabs for high-traffic areas and mid-quality ones for less busy zones. But this mixing and matching should not be at the cost of visual jarring. This makes it important for homeowners to get live samples, as discussed below.
4. Space Management and Live Sampling is Crucial
Yet again, merely searching for worktop suppliers near me on your smartphone may not always display reliable results. One must scrupulously review the various reviews and ratings and look for specific expertise in manufacturing and installing quartz worktops. Live sampling means getting home reasonably large samples of the tiles or slabs to be installed. The higher the number of samples, the easier it is to place them at appropriate locations and deduce whether the aesthetics are suitable.
5. Professional Installation is Necessary
The dry installation of quartz is a tricky process. If not done skilfully, it can lead to cracking and chipping. To avoid this, the joints have to be sealed and taped professionally and allowed to be set before applying the sealant. A well-versed team will take care of minute aspects and ensure that the measurement, installation, and sealing are conducted efficiently.
Conclusion
Modern-day engineering has drastically altered the realm of countertop materials. Just a decade ago, the options were very limited. Today, homeowners have abundant choices and often tend to get confused. There are quartz slabs that mimic the elegance of marble and those that depict the robust beauty of granite. After going through the necessary considerations discussed above, homeowners should get in touch with a reputed worktop supplier with certified experience in recommending and installing quartz worktops. Quartz is an extremely beautiful and versatile material. Hence, they are perfect for quartz flooring, staircases, feature walls, cladding, benchtops, vanity counters, and likewise.