Quartz

Durable Beauty

Courtesy of CaesarStone

Beautiful and nearly indestructable, quartz brings a sophisticated, strong look to bathroom countertops.

The superman of stone, quartz surfacing provides a nearly indestructible material, ideal for homeowners who want a beautiful countertop that resists stains and scratches.

Made from pure natural quartz (generally upward of 90 percent) mixed with epoxy resin binders, the care-free surface doesn't require sealants. Boasting the look of natural stone, quartz surfacing has a consistent color; its color should be very close to what you saw in the showroom.

Quick tip: Quartz surfacing is available in colors not found in nature, as the crushed stone is generally mixed with pigment. Take advantage, and choose a color that dazzles.

Pros

• Does not require sealants.
• Scratch-resistant with diamond-like hardness.
• Consistent color.
• Its non-porous nature makes it virtually stain-free.
• Can be worked into a decorative edge.

Cons

• Not good for DIY projects; quartz should be installed only by professionals.

Maintenance
Though it's important to always follow your manufacturer's specific instructions, quartz surfacing producer Cambria recommends washing with warm water and a pH neutral, non-abrasive cleaner.

Cost
Similar to natural stone, depending on distribution in your area. Expect to pay $45-$125 per square foot.