The overall look and feel of your kitchen depend heavily on which countertop you choose. Your counter is one of the most visible and used surfaces in your kitchen, which is why it’s incredibly important to choose the right kitchen countertops.
Quartz countertops have become a popular choice for their appearance and durability. Quartz countertops come in an almost overwhelming selection of designs, thicknesses, and finishes, which makes it hard to know which quartz countertop to choose. In this article, we go through all the factors you should consider before choosing the right countertop for your kitchen.
Why Consider A Quartz Countertop?
Quartz is mostly made from crushed natural quartz crystals, which are bonded together with polyester resin used as a binder. They come with some unique advantages.
Non-Porous
Engineered quartz countertops aren’t porous, which means they don’t absorb liquids, making them resistant to stains from even the toughest substances, such as wine or coffee.
Extremely Durable
Quartz countertops are hard, which makes them very resistant to scratching or chipping. They also don’t require routine polishing or sealing, making ongoing maintenance needs minimal.
Multiple Design Options
The engineered nature of quartz countertops means you can choose custom finishes, including color, pattern, and finish options. The end product is also very consistent, making quartz countertops a perfect choice for small and large kitchens.
Five Pro Tips When Choosing Quartz Kitchen Countertops
Choosing the right countertop comes with some important considerations, including:
1. Decide On A Budget-Appropriate Cost
Quartz is considered to be a premium countertop material, which means that you’ll need to consider your overall budget carefully. There are several factors that affect pricing, including the pattern, the thickness, and the grade of the quartz. Higher-grade quartz contains a higher density of quartz crystals, which equates to a higher density and color consistency. This might not be as much of a priority to you, in which case you could opt for a mid-grade quartz.
Remember that all our tips below are dependent on your overall budget, so be sure to speak with your home remodeling specialist to help you make the best decision.
2. Select Your Color
Deciding on the overall aesthetic of your quartz will have the biggest bearing on the visual finish of your countertops. When it comes to making decisions on color, it’s best to consult with a comprehensive home design company to ensure you receive a coherent design. Countertop colors come in three overall options.
Lighter Colors
Lighter colors, such as whites or light grays, help to create a clean and fresh feel. They’re versatile and contain a bright and modern aesthetic in their application.
Darker Colors
Darker grays and browns add depth and contrast to your kitchen and offer a bolder finish. These surfaces are, however, more likely to show fingerprints and dirt.
Neutral Colors
Beige and lighter browns offer a warm and inviting aesthetic and can create a more homely feel. Be careful not to apply too many neutral finishes to your kitchen, as it can come across as dull.
3. Decide On The Pattern
There are several patterns to consider, each offering a unique overall look and impression.
Granulated Quartz
Granulated patterns have small flecks and create a cohesive countertop that subtly blends in. They hide small spills and dirt due to their granulated nature, as opposed to solid colors that are less forgiving.
Veined Quartz
Veined quartz countertops replicate marble and contain deeply veined marble inlays through the countertop slab. These can offer an impressive finish, but remember that they may compete with other standout elements in your kitchen, so choose wisely.
Solid Quartz
Solid quartz offers an incredibly clean finish to give you that minimalist and bold finish. Be aware that a solid pattern can tend to show dirt more easily.
4. Choose Your Thickness And Desired Edging
The recommended thickness for a quartz countertop is 1¼-inch and offers a generous and substantial look. It’s also more durable, as the added thickness increases its strength. In some instances, a ¾-inch thickness can offer a minimalist and sleek appearance. These slightly thinner tops are often used in back splashes and bathroom vanities.
Edging plays a significant role in determining the style of your countertop. Squared and straight edges are the most popular and offer a sleek, modern style. Rounded or bull-nose edges offer a softer, more classic feel and also don’t come with the risk of sharp corners. Another custom style is ogee edging, which provides a distinct S-shaped curve. These offer a decorative finish with a level of formality.
5. Determine Your Desired Finish
There are three common finishes, which include a gloss, matte, or textured finish. Gloss finishes are the most popular as they offer a reflective nature and are also extremely stain-resistant. A matte finish offers a more contemporary style but can be more susceptible to stains. A textured finish gives a unique look and feel to a space and offers a bespoke finish. Be sure to consult with a reputable home design company when deciding on the finish of your kitchen countertops.
Custom Kitchen Countertops In South Florida
At Mr. Kitchen, we offer a wide range of designer kitchen countertops. We pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive design service to give your entire kitchen a cohesive and well-thought-out design. Every countertop we create is tailored to your space and unique design taste. Our integrative approach means that our countertops will complement your overall architectural design with seamless transitions and enhanced functionality. Our quartz countertops offer exceptional color consistency and are low-maintenance.
Call us today at 561-672-7306 to book a consultation to consider all the options for your new kitchen countertops.