Quartz countertops are made of engineered stone. They combine the best of natural stone with cutting-edge manufacturing techniques. As a result, quartz countertops Pittsburgh, PA produces as beautiful a surface (often more so) as granite and marble while also being more durable. Before hiring a contractor to install your quartz countertop, you should do comparison shopping. This way, you’ll be able to compare the materials and prices different professionals offer. You’ll also need to hire professionals with experience installing quartz countertops, as they’re heavy and can get damaged easily during installation. Here are some tips to ensure that your contractor can handle the installation of your quartz countertop without damage to the material.
Support
If you have a cantilevered quartz countertop, you’ll probably want to use a supporting bracket to keep it level. You can purchase ADA countertop support brackets that will extend the length of the cantilevered surface. The L-Bracket, for example, is a popular choice for this application. However, a stronger steel countertop support bracket is even better. This type of countertop support will add additional support to the countertop and reduce the risk of chipping.
In addition to a base bracket, you can install overhang supports for quartz countertops. You can use corbels for your countertop if you plan to install an overhang. However, you’ll need to choose a support system based on the size and thickness of your countertop. For example, you should consider installing overhang support for an overhang of two to four feet. It will allow your countertop to span the desired amount of space.
Thickness
Choosing the right thickness of quartz for your countertop is a crucial step in ensuring the durability and aesthetics of your kitchen. However, it’s important to keep in mind that different materials require different thicknesses, and you should carefully consider the purpose of each before making your final choice.
When deciding on the thickness of your quartz countertop, it’s important to remember that different materials require different support methods. For example, while granite requires plywood for support, quartz does not. Generally, a 3CM countertop will have fewer seams, a thinner profile, and a wider overhang. You can also choose to have a quartz countertop with a 2CM thickness if you’d like a modern, contemporary look.
Colors
The many colors of quartz are available to enhance the appearance of your kitchen. Choose one that matches the color of your cabinetry or contrasts with your flooring. These colors will match your kitchen and complement your style. Choose from a range of earthy tones. These colors are timeless and complement many design styles. They are available in various textures and patterns. In addition to its color, quartz has beautiful physical characteristics.
There are numerous quartz countertops colors available, some lighter or darker than others. While mixing and matching colors is fun, you may want to stick with a specific color scheme. Light-colored countertops work well in kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms. Darker-colored countertops work well in bedrooms, living rooms, and dens. Both look great in any room of your home. You can also choose a countertop that accentuates the decor of a room.
Texture
If you’re trying to decide between granite and quartz for your kitchen countertops, you should look for textures. Granite countertops have a natural texture, while quartz slabs lack this. The gray veining on quartz is an advantage over granite. It helps hide small defects that occur during cooking, which are easy to clean. Quartz slabs are more flexible than natural stone, so that you can bend them into sinks, curved islands, and other countertop designs. They also can be cut into standard tile sizes.
When considering the texture of a countertop, you should choose one that can mimic the look of traditional granite. Quartz countertops come in many different textures. It is easy to clean, and you can even wipe them down with a vinegar solution. After cleaning, you can dry them off with a paper towel—some options for natural stone countertops, such as marble or granite.
Durability
While the durability of quartz is second to none, it does need some regular care. Since quartz is nonporous, it is resistant to spilled liquids and can stay stain-free for many years. It does need to be sealed periodically, but you don’t have to worry about resealing it every two years, as you would with natural stone. You can also clean it with a damp cloth soaked in mild dish detergent and warm water. You should always rinse the surface after cleaning because harsh cleaners may dull the look of your quartz counter.
Compared to granite and marble, quartz is resistant to heat. While granite and marble are porous, quartz is resistant to heat. The natural quartz within these materials is impenetrable, so they don’t melt. The sealant on granite countertops can also be compromised with hot pans, so quartz is the perfect countertop material for the kitchen. Quartz is also easier to clean than most natural stones, so keeping your new countertop clean is easier than ever before.
Cost
The costs of installing a quartz countertop vary considerably, depending on its size, shape, and number of cutouts or slab cuts. Some types of quartz are more expensive than others due to the difficulty of installing large slabs or kitchen islands. In addition, the overall cost can be affected by the cost of living in the area. Your budget is the most important aspect of your kitchen remodel. A loose budget can leave you scrambling to find extra money for the project. Quartz installation is expensive, so it’s important to set a strict budget before starting the project.