How Are Quartz Countertops Made?
Quartz countertops have rapidly become a popular alternative to granite countertops. While most people know that granite is formed within the earth over millions of years, the origin of quartz used for countertops tends to be a bit more mysterious. If you’ve ever seen a small rock at a gift shop labeled “quartz,” it’s not the same kind of quartz that is used for countertops. So, how exactly are quartz countertops made? In this post from YEYANG STONE news, we’ll explore that question.
Mineral Quartz vs. Quartz for Countertops
There is a difference between mineral quartz you’d see in a gift shop and the quartz used for countertops. While they are technically the same material, mineral quartz is an unprocessed version of quartz, one of the most common minerals on Earth. For example, the white sand at a beach results from high concentrations of quartz within the sediment. Due to its appearance, attributes, and abundance, quartz is processed to be used for countertops.
Why Is Quartz Used for Countertops?
There are several reasons quartz is a popular choice for countertops. One of the most obvious is that quartz is a stunning mineral. With a beautiful white hue, it provides a great base for adding different colors and textures, creating stunning countertops that make any kitchen or bathroom feel luxurious and high-end. Additionally, since quartz is one of the most common minerals in the world, it is far cheaper to install as a countertop compared to granite, which tends to be rarer and more expensive depending on the type selected.
While granite and quartz countertops can look similar, any experienced individual can immediately tell the difference between the two materials. That said, both granite and quartz share similar attributes, making them great choices for countertops. These attributes include heat resistance, durability, and a non-porous nature. Granite, however, is porous, with thousands of nooks, crannies, and small holes, while quartz countertops are non-porous, making cleaning and maintenance much easier.
How Are Quartz Countertops Made?
The first step in creating quartz countertops is mixing the raw materials in large, industrial-sized bowls. Quartz countertops are made from approximately 93% ground quartz, naturally found in the earth, and 7% resins, pigments, and polymers, which hold the quartz together and give it the desired color. As these raw ingredients are mixed, they form a paste-like consistency, similar to wet sand. At this stage, the ingredients begin to solidify, forming the material that will be used for countertops.
Once the quartz-resin mixture starts to solidify, it is placed into large molds, forming it into slabs. During this step, the mixture is smoothed out to ensure even distribution and eliminate any gaps that might let air in. Since quartz slabs must be non-porous and airtight, molding the countertops is one of the most important parts of the process.
Next, the molded quartz mixture is compressed to ensure that the slab becomes a solid object, usually around one inch thick. During compression, any air trapped within the slab that wasn’t released during the smoothing process is removed. In the final stage, the slabs are dried and heated to fully solidify the quartz and create a smooth surface. Finishing touches, like polishing and cutting, are then applied to ensure the quartz is ready for installation in kitchens or bathrooms.
It’s important to note that quartz countertops are not recommended for outdoor use due to the resin within the mixture, which is not as heat-resistant as granite. Granite, on the other hand, can be used for outdoor countertops.
Trust YEYANG STONE to provide you with quality quartz countertops. To learn more or schedule a free consultation, contact us online or by phone today!
