Considering engineered quartz installation? An increasingly popular choice for kitchen remodels, continuing advances in quartz technology have made this manmade stone a favorite nationwide.quartz counter top.

Unlike 100% natural stones, such as granite, which are quarried and cut into slabs, engineered quartz is a manmade combination of about 90-95% natural ground quartz, alongside a small amount of polymer resins and colors. It’s these engineered origins that allow for slightly larger slabs than its natural stone competition – but that’s not the primary reason quartz countertops are taking center stage.

Compared to the more limited selection of natural stones such as granite, quartz is available in wider variety of colors. Choose from plain to patterned, white, beige, brown or black to screaming red or brilliant blue. Nothing is off-limits, including natural stone doppelgangers ranging from granite to marble, and even wood and concrete. Combining natural looks with manmade durability, cutting-edge choices add sparkle and flair with metallic accents and even those that resemble geode-slices.

Beautiful and versatile, the superior stain resistance of nonporous quartz makes it the go-to choice for those who want white countertops – without the fuss. Harder than granite, it is also extremely scratch resistant. Quartz, however, doesn’t offer the same heat resistance due to polymers (essentially plastics) in the stone, and can be damaged with prolonged exposure to excessive heat.

Quartz rivals granite for ease-of-care, but requires no annual sealing. Simply wipe clean with a soft cloth or sponge and soapy water or pH neutral cleaner. A standout countertop contender, the non-porous surface of this manmade stone are capable of being kept 99.9% bacteria-free, likewise resisting mold and mildew, making quartz an ideal solution for kosher kitchens, restaurant and healthcare settings

Available in an array of thicknesses and finishes, quartz makes for an excellent choice not only for countertops, but backsplashes, shower walls, fireplace surrounds, and even flooring. Quartz options with more consistent coloring, as opposed to natural stone’s variations, get homeowners ever-closer to seamless design as well, courtesy of larger slab sizes.