Modern quartz bathroom vanities are incredibly strong and durable, and can be made to resemble granite, marble, and other types of natural stone. They’re a far cry from the old style of vanity that used to be made with ceramic tiles, plastic laminate or cultured marble. Like any countertop material, of course, quartz has its disadvantages, too.
If you’re thinking about investing in a bathroom vanity with a quartz countertop, it’s a good idea to weigh the pros and cons before making a final decision.
Engineered Quartz Bathroom Vanities – Benefits and Drawbacks
With their great looks and unparalleled durability, quartz vanities are a popular choice among homeowners looking to upgrade their bathroom. Here, we look at the pros and cons of this trendy option.
Pros
1. Durability and Strength
Stronger than most natural stones, quartz is seventh on the Mohs scale which ranks the hardness of minerals. Quartz countertops are scratch-resistant and less susceptible to cracking and chipping than other natural stone alternatives. They’re also heat-resistant, so a reasonable exposure to heat won’t cause any major damage.
2. Low Maintenance
Before choosing a countertop material, ask yourself how much effort you’re willing to put into maintaining it. Countertops made from natural stone, concrete or granite generally need a coating of wax or sealant. Made with ground quartz and polyester resin, quartz is an engineered stone and does not require any sealant. Other countertop materials, like marble and granite, need to be re-sealed and polished regularly.
Cleaning quartz countertops is easy; simply wipe the surface using mild detergent and lukewarm water. There’s no need to apply any specific oil or cleaner.
3. Aesthetic Value
Quartz countertops are known for their natural beauty, depth and clarity. The look of quartz, however, primarily depends on the size of its crystals. The finer the granules, the smoother its appearance; the larger they are, the more flecked the surface.
- Wide Array of Colours – Since virtually any colour pigment can be used in the making of quartz, they are available in a huge range of colours, from leafy greens and fiery reds to earthy browns. Veining and speckles can also be used to mimic the look of marble or granite. Whether you’re looking for muted colours or bright and bold ones, your countertop can be made to match your preferences, making it easier to coordinate with other bathroom elements.
- Edge Profile and Finish Flexibility – Quartz countertops allow for a wide variety of finishes and edging options. Whether you want a satin look, a honed finish or a polished surface, finished quartz vanities look extremely elegant and create a unique charm and ambience.
- Uniform Patterns – Natural stones come with random patterns, so when you buy slabs of soapstone or granite, there is a great variation in their colour patterns. The controlled manufacturing process of quartz slabs ensures that they come out with the exact colours, patterns and textures you want.
4. Resale Value
When designing or renovating your property, it’s always advisable to keep its resale value in mind. Quartz’s durability and affordability ensure that you receive a great return on your investment. Since countertops or vanities are working surfaces, they will eventually show their age. With quartz vanities, you’ll be surprised to see that they keep looking spectacular year after year. Though quartz may be slightly pricier than other countertop materials, like laminate, it’s well worth the investment.
5. Safety
Quartz countertops are manufactured using advanced processes that create a nonporous and non-absorbent surface. This means that viruses and fungi cannot penetrate, making it one of the most hygienic surfaces. This also ensures that the material doesn’t draw in any moisture from its surroundings, which promotes bacteria and fungi growth.
6. Versatility
Due to their functionality, affordability, durability, and ease of maintenance, quartz countertops perform exceptionally well in a variety of bathrooms and are suitable for any household.
- Seniors – Seniors generally want a countertop that will last and doesn’t require much upkeep, making quartz a great match.
- Busy Families – Their durability makes it ideal for busy families, especially those with young children. Kids can be rough on your entire house, including your bathroom vanity. They also stand up well to frequent messes and spills.
- Young Couples – Quartz is the perfect blend of modern style and functionality that young couples expect these days, especially when entertaining family or friends.
Cons
1. Visible Seams
When you need multiple slabs of engineered quartz, especially for bigger vanities where the counter has to turn a corner, chances are that the seams will be obvious. This is less of an issue for small bathrooms where the countertops are usually smaller.
If seams are still an issue, consider using a resin the same colour as the countertop or slabs of the same general colour and pattern. Remember, the more similar the designs of two consecutive slabs, the harder it is to notice seams.
2. Chemical Sensitivity
General household cleaners containing bleach or acidic chemicals can damage your engineered quartz countertop. Check the manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations before you use any product on your countertop.
3. Not Completely Heat-Proof
Although quartz resists a certain amount of heat, it’s not entirely heat-proof. This means that it can be damaged by hot tools, such as hair straighteners and curling irons.
The benefits outnumber the drawbacks when it comes to owning a quartz bathroom vanity. While quartz is a bit more expensive than other countertop materials, it’s worth it for the quality it offers. Factor in your needs and budget before deciding if quartz is the best choice for your bathroom vanity.