Quartz is the second most common mineral found on earth and is a crystalline form of silicone. It’s typically found in sedimentary, metamorphic and igneous rocks and is coloured by the impurities present within such as in Cairngorm, citrine, and amethyst. It is a durable material which can be used in diverse ways from building materials to electronics.

It can be found all over the world with Brazil and Arkansas having the biggest natural mines. The largest crystal was found in Brazil and weighed over 44 tons. Deserts, rivers, beaches, and mountaintops contain very high quantities of quartz. Though it’s a widely occurring material, high-quality and pure crystals are seldom found.

Of course, quartz is an excellent option for a kitchen countertop because it is known to be one of the toughest materials available. It’s a non-porous material that prevents mildew, bacteria, and water from seeping into the surface.

Although a scratch-resistant material, we do recommend using a cutting board and not using the countertop as one. A severely hot pan or pot can cause discolouration so it’s best that you use a trivet to maintain the quality of your quartz countertop.

No, it isn’t necessary to seal quartz as you would other stones.

Granite can’t be burned with regular use although a few colours might absorb moisture due to prolonged contact. There may be a problem with pigmented fluids such as red wine but it doesn’t stain easily. However, it’s advisable to wipe off spills immediately. Our experts will seal the granite countertops with a specially formulated sealer which will prevent any irreversible damage from taking place.

Your countertop can only chip in cases of severe abuse with a heavy impact tool such as a hammer. In such cases, it can easily be filled with a granite dust and epoxy mixture. Don’t throw away the chipped pieces as they can be used to fix the countertop.

Since granite has a crystalline structure, it always has tiny pits. However, you won’t see them on large pieces as they’re polished to provide a mirror-like finish. Sometimes, granite also has tiny fissures which may look like small cracks, but aren’t any form of structural defects. They occur naturally as a result of immense pressure and heat which forms the stone. They are a part of the stone’s natural beauty and do not affect its durability or function.

No, the Centre for Disease Control hasn’t found any evidence suggesting that bacteria can grow in granite.

Your kitchen is just like anything else you buy, meaning the cost will be dependent on the complexity of the job and the price of the materials you choose. However, remember that a kitchen remodel is an investment you make that can increase your home’s value. Our cabinetry is available at various price levels that can suit any budget and our experts strive to provide the best design within that budget.