Choosing Quartz Countertops: Colour, Thickness and Care

Quartz has become the go-to surface for kitchens and baths because it looks like stone and asks almost nothing of you. Here's how to choose well.

What engineered quartz is

Engineered quartz is crushed natural quartz bound with resin and pigment, pressed into slabs. The result is non-porous, so it doesn't need sealing and resists stains from coffee, wine and makeup.

Quartz vs granite

• Maintenance: quartz never needs sealing; most granite does.
• Consistency: quartz colour and veining are predictable from slab to slab.
• Heat: granite tolerates hot pans better. With quartz, always use a trivet.
• Outdoors: quartz isn't meant for outdoor kitchens, since strong sun can fade the resin.

2cm or 3cm?

3cm slabs are the fuller, more substantial look for kitchen counters and islands. 2cm is lighter and common for vanity tops and backsplashes, sometimes with a built-up (mitred) edge to look thicker.

Choosing a colour

• Bright whites open up small or north-facing kitchens and pair with any cabinet colour.
• Marble-look veining brings movement to a simple kitchen; bolder veins suit large islands where the pattern has room.
• Warm and taupe tones sit well with wood cabinets and brass hardware.

Always look at a sample in your own light, next to your cabinet and floor colours.

Everyday care

Wipe with warm water and a mild dish soap. Avoid bleach, oven cleaner, and abrasive pads. Use cutting boards and trivets.

See every Summit Stone™ colour, or ask for a project quote.