You've likely heard about quartz countertops and how popular they've become in recent years, but what exactly makes them so great for kitchens and bathrooms? As you consider options for your next remodeling project, here's a look at some of the top benefits of quartz countertops.

1. Resistance to Bacterial Growth

In rooms like the kitchen and bathroom, resistance to bacterial growth is key. Other materials can absorb bacteria over time, creating unpleasant odors that require maintenance. However, quartz surfaces do not allow bacteria to penetrate the surface. This helps them stay cleaner and more hygienic with years of regular use.

2. Stunning and Unique Visual Appeal

You have many options when it comes to the visual style of your quartz countertops. During fabrication, different colors and patterns can be incorporated to complement your cabinetry, flooring, and décor. Unlike plain granite or marble, quartz allows you to choose a one-of-a-kind look that brings out your personal style.

3. Great Value for the Investment

In general, quartz countertops fall somewhere in the middle of the spectrum when it comes to price. They are more affordable than natural stone but a bigger investment than tiles or laminate. As a manufactured blend of natural quartz and polymer resins, you get the best qualities of both materials. In the end, quartz offers great value by giving you beautiful, natural-looking counters that stand the test of time.

4. Safety and Durability

Few materials can match quartz when it comes to durability. According to Consumer Reports, in lab testing, quartz stands up to stains, scratches, impact, and heat better than granite and other natural stones. That makes it an ideal choice for busy kitchens and baths. You do not have to worry as much about damaging quartz with regular use. It retains its polished smoothness and does not easily chip or crack if it is hit by a heavy pot. Safety is also a priority because quartz does not get as hot from appliances as natural stone does.

5. Ease of Maintenance

Caring for quartz requires little time and effort on your part. Unlike granite, marble, and other natural stones, quartz does not need periodic sealing treatments throughout the years. The Spruce reports that quartz countertops are waterproof, unlike natural stone countertops that are typically porous and need routine sealing. Simple cleaning with soap and water is enough to keep quartz free of bacteria and looking like new. Quartz does not require special cleaners or polishing compounds, either. For deeper cleaning, a degreasing countertop spray easily removes dried spills and residues. With such simple maintenance needs, your quartz counters will retain their beauty for decades before needing to be replaced.

6. Sustainably Made

For the eco-conscious homeowner, quartz has sustainability benefits over natural stone as well. Quartz contains a high percentage of recycled content, which helps to conserve natural resources and reduce the amount of energy used to source those materials for new products. As a result, you can give your kitchen or bath a beautiful, natural look with less impact on the Earth and a smaller carbon footprint.

7. Cooler Surface Temperature

Quartz counters stay cooler to the touch than natural stone in hot environments. Granite, for example, readily absorbs ambient heat and gets hot fast when exposed to warm air, sunlight, or hot cookware. Quartz has very low thermal conductivity, which means it will not get as hot as quickly as stone when exposed to heat. This quality means quartz stays a bit cooler for hands and arms resting on its surface when the kitchen is busy. This can also come in handy during the summer months when the kitchen can be an uncomfortable place to cook during the day. Because the countertops don't absorb the heat of pots and pans placed on them, you can reduce your discomfort and sweating when making meals.

With strength, beauty, durability, and low maintenance in one package, it is easy to see why quartz countertops are surging in popularity for kitchen and bathroom remodels. As you remodel your own kitchen or bath, consider taking advantage of all the benefits offered by this versatile material. If you're looking for new quartz countertops, visit our showroom at Gaumats International, LLC today to find the best one for you.