Quartz (engineered stone)

Quartz agglomerate (engineered stone) consists of slabs made from crushed natural quartz and a binder of polymer resins and pigments. The quartz share is about 90-95% depending on the maker (Caesarstone, for example, cites about 93%). The mix is pressed under vacuum and vibration to give a dense, uniform slab. It is mostly used for kitchen countertops, windowsills, bar counters, bathroom vanity tops and cladding.

Properties. The material is very dense and absorbs almost no water: according to one source, about 0.02% by weight. So coffee, wine and oil do not leave lasting stains, and sealing is not needed. The surface resists scratches, chips and daily use, though no material is indestructible: do not cut food directly on the countertop. Consistency: pattern and colour within a batch are more stable than in natural stone, so quartz suits cases that need a predictable result or a veined marble look.

The weak point is high temperature. The resins react to strong heat, so hot pans and pots from the hob are put on a trivet, not on the countertop. The same applies to sharp temperature changes and open flame. The exact permitted limit depends on the brand and collection and is given by the manufacturer; without confirmation we do not quote a number. Harsh solvents are also not recommended: see the brand's care sheet.

Comparison. Acrylic stone is easier to repair and work (scratches can be sanded), gives seamless shapes, but is softer and dislikes heat. Porcelain stoneware (large slabs) tolerates heat and UV better, but edges and joints need careful finishing. Natural stone (granite, marble) is unique, but marble is porous and needs care. Quartz agglomerate is a middle ground in care and price in the comfort and premium segments, which is why we often choose it for kitchens.

Where to choose it and where not. Quartz is good for kitchen countertops, bar counters, windowsills and bathroom tops. For a hob area and places with intense heat, plan protection. For outdoor areas and terraces quartz is less suitable than porcelain stoneware or natural stone. Seams in a long countertop are unavoidable, and their position should be agreed in advance. The price depends on the brand, décor and processing; we calculate it once a specific sample is chosen.

Typical mistakes: not checking the sample in your own light; not matching cut-outs for the sink and hob to the real appliance sizes; putting hot items directly on the surface; saving on thickness and edge; forgetting a windowsill in the same stone. In the furniture specification we state brand, décor, thickness and edge type so that the fabricator does not swap the material.