It’s an exciting time in the McGrath household, as we are finally tackling our kitchen update! In the fifteen years since we moved in, the only thing that has changed is the refrigerator, so I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this project. Most notably, the countertops which are a dated blue laminate that shows every scuff, scratch and stain. So it is out with the old and in with the new, and I am so happy that we chose quartz for our kitchen!

With so many options out there, it really can be daunting to make such a large financial and visual investment. For me, it was always quartz. Thankfully working in the design industry grants me the inside scoop not only on what’s trending, but what works. So, in anticipation of our own kitchen, I’ve put together the top 5 reasons you should choose quartz for your new countertops.

one. durability

Quartz is a man made product, created by grinding up the mineral quartz and pressing it into slabs which are adhered with resin. Quartz is actually one of the most common minerals on the planet. It has been rated a 7 on the Moh Scale or Hardness and is also largely resistant to chemical and physical erosion. Both of these traits, combined with its accessability, make it an ideal countertop material.

Because of it’s natural strength and man-made fabrication, quartz does not have weak spots like natural stone. It also does not require regular sealing and upkeep like natural stone. Quartz is inherently non-porous, which makes it near impossible for liquids to leave stains. Parents and wine drinkers rejoice!

two. more control

Unlike granite or marble, quartz offers the buyer more control over the appearance of their stone. Natural stone slabs are all unique, with veining and imperfections that can often be difficult to work around when templating your countertops. If you are someone who likes more accuracy and color consistency, this is a great option for you.

Each quartz countertop is a combination of natural quartz, resin and color pigment that when combined, work to mimic the look of natural stone. In fact, the techniques used to create these counters has gotten so good over the years, that it can be difficult to tell the difference between quartz and stones like marble.

three. resale value

It is no secret that kitchens and bathrooms sell homes. So, if you are looking to sell or simply update your home, quartz countertops are one of the simplest ways to add value. Many home buyers want a move-in ready space that requires little to no additional costs after purchase. Any kitchen or vanity gets an instant facelift with a quartz countertop, and the clean modern look is an easy sell in today’s market.

four. comparable cost

For years, granite held the top spot in countertops. You couldn’t watch a single HGTV program without granite countertops on the checklist. Well boy did that change once quartz came onto the scene! For a relatively similar price point, you get maximum durability and lower maintenance with a similar look. If you like the look of granite you can likely find a comparable version in quartz that doesn’t require regular sealing and offers stain resistance.

five. aesthetically pleasing

One of the best qualities of quartz is that it fits seamlessly into any style of kitchen or bathroom. It can be engineered to look like natural stone, or even tinted into unique monochromatic colors. With an expanse of options to choose from, there is a product for every home and buyer.

So what do you think about quartz countertops? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below. I will be sure to share all of our exciting kitchen updates here on the blog, as well as our finished countertops after install!

Until next time…