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Quartz Worktops Edinburgh
People who are looking for luxury kitchens in Edinburgh understand the value of installing the finest quality kitchen worktops such as Quartz, Corian, Granite, Marble and any solid surface material.
Kitchens By Sherbrook are specialists in installing German kitchens and although we can accommodate a wide range of budgets and needs, generally we focus on bespoke high-end designs using luxury worktops, cabinets and units.
On this page you will find more information about Quartz worktops including their features, benefits and examples of installations we have completed in the Edinburgh area.
Benefits of Quartz Worktops
The end result of the above is a high-quality, solid surface kitchen worktop that combines the natural beauty of quartz with enhanced durability and versatility, making it popular for modern kitchens. This engineered process allows quartz worktops to have consistent patterns, a wide colour range, and excellent resilience for everyday use.
Quartz worktops are highly popular with customers in the Edinburgh area looking for luxury kitchens that stand out. This is due to their blend of beauty, durability, and low maintenance. Here are some of the key benefits of Quartz kitchen worktops:
Quartz worktops are highly resistant to scratches, stains, and impacts due to the hardness of quartz and the strength provided by binding resins. This makes them ideal for busy kitchens, as they withstand heavy use without chipping or cracking.
Unlike natural stone, quartz surfaces are non-porous, meaning they do not absorb liquids or harbor bacteria, making them easier to clean and highly resistant to staining from spills like wine, coffee, or oils.
Quartz worktops do not require sealing, unlike granite or marble, because of their non-porous composition. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water is generally sufficient, making them a low-maintenance option for homeowners.
Engineered quartz is available in a broad range of colors, patterns, and finishes, from natural stone looks to sleek modern designs. This versatility allows for customized aesthetic choices to match any kitchen style.
Since quartz is an engineered stone, it offers a more uniform appearance compared to natural stones, which may vary in pattern. This is beneficial for those who prefer a consistent look across large surfaces, such as islands or extended countertops.
Quartz worktops are moderately heat-resistant, although it’s still advised to use trivets or pads for hot pans. Their composition also provides high resistance to common stains, especially when compared to natural stones like marble.
Many quartz worktops incorporate recycled materials and are manufactured in environmentally conscious facilities, making them an option for those interested in eco-friendly kitchen materials.
Quartz Worktop Installations in Edinburgh
See pictured below some examples of quartz kitchen worktops we installed on luxury kitchens in the Edinburgh area. For more pictures of kitchen worktop installations including popular Corian worktops click here.
What is Quartz Made From?
Quartz is an engineered material primarily composed of natural quartz crystals. These crystals are ground into a fine powder and mixed with resins, pigments, and other materials to create a hard, non-porous surface.
Because of this mix of materials, quartz countertops are highly durable, low-maintenance, and non-porous, making them a popular choice for kitchen and bathroom surfaces. The engineered process also allows for a wide range of colours and finishes not typically found in natural stone.
Below is a closer look at the main components of Quartz material:
Natural quartz makes up around 90-95% of the material in quartz countertops. These quartz particles are ground and blended to provide a durable, scratch resistant base.
To bind the quartz particles together and create a solid surface, manufacturers add around 5-10% resin binders. These resins help solidify the quartz and provide flexibility, making it resistant to cracks and stains.
Colour pigments are added to give quartz countertops various shades and patterns. These pigments can mimic the look of natural stone, like marble or granite, while maintaining the durability of quartz.
Sometimes, recycled glass, mirror chips, or other materials are mixed in to create unique textures and styles. These additives can enhance the appearance and mimic natural variations found in other types of stone.
Quartz Extraction From The Earth
Quartz is sourced through mining and quarrying processes. Quartz deposits are found in the Earth’s crust, often within rock formations like sandstone, granite, and other igneous rocks. Here’s a breakdown of the main steps:
Exploration and Site Selection
Geologists identify potential quartz deposits through exploration activities, which often include geological surveys, rock sampling, and analysis to determine the quality and concentration of quartz in an area.
Extraction
Once a quartz deposit is located, open-pit mining or quarrying techniques are used to extract the quartz. In open-pit mining, large areas are excavated with heavy machinery to remove the topsoil and expose the quartz-rich rocks. For smaller deposits or specific applications, quarrying may involve using explosives or saws to cut and lift blocks of quartz.
Crushing and Processing
Extracted quartz rock is crushed and broken down into smaller pieces. Depending on its intended use, the quartz may undergo further purification steps, like washing, sorting, and grinding. For high-purity applications, such as electronics or optical lenses, the quartz undergoes additional refining processes to remove impurities.
Separation and Grading
The crushed quartz is then graded and sorted based on size and quality. High-quality quartz used for countertops or electronics is separated from lower-grade material. Some quartz undergoes additional treatment to enhance color or clarity, especially for applications in decorative or engineered quartz surfaces.
Quartz extraction and processing have environmental impacts, including habitat disruption, dust production, and water usage. Sustainable and regulated mining practices help mitigate these effects, and some manufacturers now focus on sourcing quartz from responsible sources or recycling quartz by-products to reduce environmental impact.
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Conversion To Solid Surface Kitchen Worktops
The transformation of quartz stone into solid surface kitchen worktops involves a highly controlled and engineered process. Here’s an overview of how raw quartz is processed into the durable, attractive surfaces seen on our pictures of Quartz worktop installations in Edinburgh:
Mining and Crushing Quartz
Quartz is mined from natural deposits and crushed into fine particles. These crushed quartz particles make up the primary material in engineered quartz surfaces, generally 90-95% of the final product.
Mixing with Resins and Pigments
The quartz powder is mixed with binding resins (about 5-10%) and color pigments. These resins bind the particles together, creating a solid, non-porous material. Pigments allow for various colors and patterns, enabling the appearance of natural stone or custom designs.
Moulding and Compressing
This mixture is placed into moulds that form large slabs, matching the desired countertop dimensions. Using a process called vibro-compression under vacuum, the mixture is compressed with high pressure and vibration to remove air pockets and increase density. This step gives quartz worktops their strength and consistency.
Curing and Hardening
The slabs are then cured in a kiln or oven at high temperatures, which hardens the resins and fuses the quartz particles. This curing process enhances durability, making the material resistant to scratches, stains, and impact.
Polishing and Finishing
After curing, the slabs are polished to create a smooth, glossy finish. Some slabs may also receive a matte or textured finish based on design preferences. The surface is sealed to ensure it remains non-porous, which contributes to easy maintenance and hygiene.
Cutting and Shaping
At this stage, slabs are ready for customisation. Fabricators cut and shape the slabs to fit specific kitchen designs, including creating spaces for sinks, fixtures, and appliance inserts. Edges are refined, and any desired design details or finishes are added.
Worktop Installation
The finished slabs are transported to the kitchen site, where professionals install them. With careful measurements and support, the quartz worktops are positioned and secured, providing a lasting, durable surface for kitchen use.
Quartz vs Granite Worktops
When choosing between quartz and granite worktops, there are several factors to consider to select the more suitable surface for your kitchen. Important factors to consider and compare include durability, maintenance, appearance, cost, and environmental impact. Below is a more detailed comparison of Quartz Vs Granite worktops:
Quartz: Quartz worktops are highly durable, as they are engineered from crushed quartz stone mixed with resin. They are resistant to scratches, chips, and cracks and have a consistent surface quality.
Granite: Granite is a natural stone, making each slab unique in pattern and texture. It is highly durable but more prone to chipping than quartz due to its natural composition.
Quartz: Requires minimal maintenance. Since quartz is non-porous, it does not need sealing and is resistant to stains from spills like coffee or oil. It can be cleaned easily with soap and water.
Granite: Granite is a porous material, so it requires sealing upon installation and regular resealing every 1 to 2 years to prevent stains and bacteria buildup. Without sealing, granite is more prone to stains and moisture damage.
Quartz: Quartz worktops offer a uniform look with a wide range of colours and designs, from solid colours to patterns that mimic natural stone. This consistency makes it a popular choice for those wanting a sleek, cohesive appearance.
Granite: Granite’s natural formation gives each slab unique colours and patterns, offering a more organic look. Variations in colour and veining give granite a distinctive appeal, especially in kitchens aiming for a natural aesthetic.
Quartz: While quartz is moderately heat-resistant, it can still be damaged by extreme temperatures, so it’s advisable to use trivets. It is also highly resistant to stains due to its non-porous surface.
Granite: Granite is more heat-resistant than quartz and can withstand hot pots and pans, though trivets are still recommended. Its stain resistance depends on regular sealing; if not sealed, it can absorb stains and moisture.
Quartz: Typically more expensive than granite due to the engineering process and the consistent quality. Prices vary depending on the brand and style chosen.
Granite: Often more affordable than quartz, especially with common or locally sourced varieties. Exotic granite can be more expensive, especially when cut and installed as a single slab.
Quartz: Since it is engineered, many manufacturers use recycled materials and sustainable practices, making some options eco-friendly. However, the resin in quartz is a synthetic material, which may impact its overall environmental footprint.
Granite: As a natural stone, granite’s environmental impact depends on where and how it is quarried. It is often considered a sustainable option but may require significant transportation and energy for extraction, which impacts its footprint.
Both quartz and granite add value to a home as premium countertop choices. Quartz’s consistency and minimal upkeep make it ideal for busy households, while granite’s natural beauty and heat resistance make it appealing for those wanting a more natural look with character.
Choose Quartz if you prefer a low-maintenance, stain-resistant, and uniform appearance.
Choose Granite if you want a natural, unique look with high heat resistance and don’t mind periodic sealing.
Quartz vs Marble Worktops
When comparing quartz and marble worktops, it’s essential to consider factors like durability, maintenance, appearance, and cost, as each has surface distinct qualities:
Quartz: Quartz is an engineered material made from natural quartz mixed with resin, making it highly durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and chips. It is also non-porous, so it resists moisture and bacterial growth.
Marble: As a natural stone, marble is softer and more prone to scratches, etching, and chips. Acidic substances like lemon juice or vinegar can etch the surface, causing dull spots. Its porous nature also makes it susceptible to staining if not sealed properly and regularly.
Quartz: Due to its non-porous quality, quartz is low maintenance and does not require sealing. It’s easy to clean with mild soap and water, making it ideal for kitchens with high traffic.
Marble: Marble requires more upkeep, including regular sealing to protect against staining and etching. It’s best cleaned with a pH-neutral cleaner and should be promptly wiped if acidic substances spill on it to prevent etching.
Quartz: Quartz worktops come in a wide range of colours and patterns, some of which can mimic the look of marble. Quartz’s uniformity provides a sleek, modern look.
Marble: Known for its natural beauty, marble has a luxurious, timeless appeal with unique veining patterns. Each marble slab is unique, offering an organic look that adds character to any kitchen. Popular varieties include Carrara, Calacatta, and Statuario marble, each with distinctive veining and shades.
Quartz: While quartz has moderate heat resistance, direct exposure to high temperatures can damage it. It’s advisable to use trivets or hot pads to protect the surface.
Marble: Marble has higher heat resistance than quartz and can withstand hot cookware to some extent. However, using trivets is still recommended to avoid thermal shock or discoloration over time.
Quartz: Quartz is generally less expensive than high-end marble, although pricing depends on the brand, colour, and thickness chosen. It provides a premium look at a more affordable price point.
Marble: Marble tends to be more expensive, especially for rarer varieties. The cost includes not only the stone but also the labor for sealing and maintenance.
Quartz: As an engineered material, quartz can sometimes be produced using recycled materials and sustainable practices, though the resin in quartz adds to its environmental footprint.
Marble: Since marble is quarried directly from the earth, it has a significant environmental impact in terms of quarrying and transport. However, it does not involve synthetic materials, which can appeal to those seeking natural options.
Choose Quartz if you want a low-maintenance, stain-resistant, and durable surface that can mimic marble’s look.
Choose Marble if you prefer a natural, unique stone with a timeless aesthetic and are prepared for the extra maintenance to preserve its appearance.
SHERBROOK KITCHENS
Genuine Savings:
Enjoy savings compared to high-street prices.
Free Design Service:
Take advantage of our complimentary standard design service.
Quality Kitchen Units:
All our kitchen units are proudly German-made.
Comprehensive Offerings:
We supply not only kitchen units but also worktops and appliances.
PreBuilt Units:
Your convenience matters – all kitchen units are delivered pre-assembled.
Genuine Savings:
Experience a hassle-free process by sharing your kitchen dimensions and design ideas, and we’ll transform them into a stunning kitchen design.
Quartz Worktop Installers Edinburgh
Kitchens By Sherbrook are experienced kitchen fitters serving Edinburgh with over 30 years experience in the industry. For reliable Quartz worktop installers who can design, supply and fit your new kitchen project look no further.
Quartz Worktop Plan and Design
Contact us to schedule a free, in-depth plan and design consultation including the best kitchen worktop layout and materials for your space.