quartz countertops

Unlike natural stone, engineered quartz countertops cost are completely uniform throughout and are susceptible to some discoloration when subjected to long periods of ultra-violet light. Because of this reason, engineered quartz may not be desired for use as an outdoor countertop. Engineered quartz can also be damaged by high heat so it is always recommended that the user not place a hot pan directly onto this type of countertop.

Other natural stones, such as soapstone, limestone, marble and onyx, make beautiful vanities, fireplace surrounds, bathroom countertops, and so on. Even though all of these stones are hard to the touch they are still much softer than granite or engineered quartz and therefore not recommended for use in a high traffic area such as a kitchen. The only exception is that if the desire is to create an "old world" look, both marble and soapstone will achieve this as oxidation occurs naturally.

With the majority of materials used in countertop installations, seams will be visible, but with darker countertops the seams will not be as readily seen. Engineered quartz however, depending upon the size of the countertop, may not have any seams due to being manufactured in very large sheets.