Busting 6 Myths About Quartz Countertops in Toronto Homes

Quartz is an artificial material that has become a popular choice for countertops in recent years. Depending on the manufacturer, it combines ground quartz minerals with pigments, polymers, and resins to create durable slabs.

Quartz’s balance of design and functionality makes it stand out. It can mimic the look of natural stones like marble and granite but offers a wider variety of colours and patterns, giving homeowners more design options.

However, despite their popularity, several misconceptions surround engineered stone countertops. Let’s compare six common myths about the quartz countertops available in Toronto-area shops to natural stone countertops like marble and granite.

Quartz Countertops for Toronto-Area Homes: 6 Myths Debunked

Here, we debunk six misconceptions many people have about quartz countertops.

1. Quartz Countertops Have No Real Natural Quartz

One common misconception about quartz countertops is that they contain no natural quartz. While quartz countertops are engineered, they’re made primarily from natural materials. In fact, about 90 to 94 percent of the material in these countertops is ground quartz, with only a small percentage made up of resins and pigments that bind everything together.

Some lower-quality options may have slightly lower quartz content, but even then, they still contain a high amount of natural quartz. Quartz countertops can never be 100% synthetic, and it is a myth to think they are entirely man-made.

2. Quartz Countertops Need To Be Sealed

Another common myth about quartz countertops is that, like natural stone surfaces, they must be sealed to maintain their quality. However, quartz countertops are non-porous, meaning they don’t have the tiny pores that allow liquids or stains to seep in. As a result, they don’t require sealing.

If you tried to seal a quartz countertop, the sealer would simply sit on the surface and not penetrate the material. Unlike in marble and granite countertops in Toronto homes, the resins used in quartz manufacturing provide a built-in protective layer that repels liquids and resists stains.

3. Quartz Countertops Are Not As Durable As Natural Stone Countertops

One common belief is that quartz countertops in Toronto don’t hold up like granite and marble countertops, but this is far from the truth. Quartz is, in fact, one of the most durable materials available for countertops, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

Quartz ranks seventh on the Mohs hardness scale, meaning it is incredibly tough and resistant to everyday wear and tear. In contrast, natural stones like marble, which rank lower, are much more prone to scratches, chips, and etching, especially when exposed to acidic substances. Granite is also durable, but quartz’s engineered composition makes it more resistant to common household hazards like staining and chipping. Its durability allows quartz countertops to withstand heavy usage from cooking, crafting, or even kids’ activities while maintaining their beauty over time.

One area where quartz outshines natural stone, including granite and marble countertops in Toronto, is its resistance to chipping and cracking. While dropping a heavy pot on a natural stone surface like marble can cause chips or cracks, quartz’s engineered structure makes it more impact-resistant. The resins used in quartz countertops provide flexibility that natural stones lack, allowing them to absorb impacts more effectively.

4. Quartz Countertops Are High-Maintenance

Many people believe that quartz countertops require extensive upkeep. In reality, quartz is one of the easiest countertop materials to care for. Its non-porous surface naturally repels liquids, dirt, and contaminants, making it incredibly low maintenance.

Cleaning quartz is simple: just use mild liquid soap and water, and you’re good to go. There’s no need for special cleaners or harsh chemicals. This low-maintenance aspect is a significant advantage over granite.

5. Quartz Countertops Are Expensive

Many believe quartz is much more expensive than other countertop materials like granite or marble, but that’s not always true.

While some quartz countertops can be pricier, the market offers various options that suit different budgets. Quartz’s durability and minimal maintenance often make it a smart investment compared to a granite or marble bathroom and kitchen countertop in Toronto, which may require more frequent upkeep.

Here are some key factors affecting the cost of quartz countertops:

• Material Quality: Like natural stones, quartz is available in various grades. Higher-end options with unique designs or added features may come with a higher price tag. Still, there are also affordable quartz selections that deliver the same benefits without breaking the bank.
• Thickness of the Slab: Thicker quartz slabs can be more expensive due to the added material, but thinner options are available at lower costs without sacrificing quality.
• Customization: The cost of quartz can vary depending on the level of customization you need, such as special cutouts for sinks or intricate edge designs. Much like marble countertops in Toronto, more complex installations may raise prices.

However, quartz and marble offer various design options to fit different styles and budgets, making them popular for homeowners looking to upgrade their kitchens and bathrooms.

In summary, while quartz can be an investment, it is not just for luxury homes. Its wide range of price points and long-term savings make it accessible for various budgets, providing both practicality and beauty for Toronto-area homeowners.

6. Quartz Countertops Are Not Environment-Friendly

Some people believe quartz countertops aren’t eco-friendly due to their manufacturing process and synthetic materials. In reality, many quartz manufacturers are committed to sustainable practices, often incorporating recycled materials, like glass, into their production process.

Quartz is an abundant mineral, making it a more sustainable option than rarer stones like marble or granite. Its availability makes it easier to mine and transport, minimizing the environmental strain caused by sourcing and logistics.

Quartz also has the advantage of being a by-product of other mining activities, meaning it helps reduce waste by repurposing materials that would otherwise be discarded. With its use of recycled materials and its manufacturers’ commitment to sustainability, quartz is a popular choice for environmentally-conscious homeowners and builders alike.

 
Quartz countertops are great for homeowners looking for a stylish, durable, and low-maintenance surface. From its eco-friendly manufacturing process to its long-term cost benefits, quartz countertops offer an excellent alternative to natural stone materials like granite and marble. If you’re looking for the perfect countertops, check out Home Care Supply’s local options to find the best quartz countertops in the Toronto area. Whether you’re remodelling your kitchen or bathroom, quartz countertops provide the perfect blend of beauty and functionality for any Toronto-area home.