Quartz Countertops: The Trend Kitchen + Bath Perspective

When it comes to kitchen and bathroom design, countertops are one of the most critical style and functionality decisions you’ll make. At Trend Kitchen + Bath, one of the most requested countertop materials by our clients is quartz—and it’s easy to see why.

Quartz countertops offer the luxurious look of natural stone but with added benefits like durability, ease of maintenance, and design flexibility. But no material is perfect for every homeowner or every application. Whether you’re doing a kitchen remodel or upgrading a guest bathroom, this comprehensive guide breaks down the pros and cons of quartz countertops and helps you decide if they’re the right fit for your home.

What Is Quartz?

Unlike granite or marble, quartz is an engineered stone. It’s made from natural quartz crystals that are crushed and bound together using resin and pigments. The result? A non-porous, uniform, and incredibly strong surface that comes in a wide variety of colors and styles.

Pros of Quartz Countertops

1. Exceptional Durability

Quartz is one of the hardest minerals on Earth, scoring a 7 out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale. For comparison, granite scores around 6, and marble is typically softer. This makes quartz countertops highly resistant to chips, scratches, and cracks—ideal for high-traffic kitchens, busy households, and commercial applications.

2. Low Maintenance

Forget sealing. Unlike natural stones, quartz is non-porous, meaning it doesn’t require any sealing over time. You won’t need to worry about staining from wine, oil, coffee, or juice—common kitchen culprits. Regular cleaning with soap and water is typically all it takes to keep quartz looking brand new.

3. Stain Resistant

Quartz’s non-porous surface also makes it extremely stain-resistant. Liquids and foods can’t seep in, so it’s perfect for kitchen islands, food prep areas, and bathroom vanities. Even makeup spills or toothpaste stains are easily wiped away.

4. Hygienic and Safe

Since bacteria and viruses can’t penetrate the surface, quartz countertops are a hygienic choice, especially for families with children. You’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing your food prep surfaces aren’t harboring hidden germs.

5. Wide Variety of Styles and Colors

Because quartz is engineered, it can be made in a huge array of colors, patterns, and finishes. You can find quartz that mimics the luxurious look of marble, soapstone, or concrete, or opt for bold colors and veining patterns to fit modern or traditional interiors. Whether you’re dreaming of a soft white kitchen or a dramatic waterfall island, quartz offers incredible design versatility.

6. Consistent Look

Natural stones often come with unpredictable veining, patches, or discolorations. Quartz offers a consistent and uniform appearance, which makes it easier to plan your design and match slabs across large areas without worrying about color variation.

7. Versatile Applications

Quartz is not limited to countertops. It can be used for:

Backsplashes
Waterfall islands
Shower walls
Bathroom vanities
Fireplace surrounds

Its versatility makes it an ideal all-in-one surfacing material throughout the home.

8. Adds Value to Your Home

Quartz countertops are considered a premium feature in real estate listings. They add both resale value and a luxurious feel to your kitchen or bath. Homebuyers appreciate the low maintenance, aesthetic appeal, and long-lasting quality.

Cons of Quartz Countertops

1. Sensitive to Heat

One of the few weaknesses of quartz is heat resistance. While quartz can handle moderate heat, placing a hot pot or pan directly on the surface can cause the resin to warp, discolor, or even crack. Always use trivets or hot pads to avoid damage.

2. Not Suitable for Outdoor Use

Quartz is not UV-stable, meaning that prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause it to fade or discolor. It’s not recommended for outdoor kitchens, patios, or any areas with strong natural light from large windows or skylights.

3. Cost

Quartz is often more expensive than laminate or tile and can rival or exceed the cost of granite or marble. Prices generally range from $70 to $150+ per square foot, including installation. That said, many homeowners view the long-term durability and low maintenance as worth the investment.

4. Visible Seams

Larger countertop installations may require multiple quartz slabs. While fabricators do their best to minimize seams, they can be more noticeable compared to some natural stones—especially on light-colored quartz.

5. Heavy and Requires Professional Installation

Quartz is a very heavy material and should only be installed by trained professionals. DIY installation is not advised, and labor costs can add significantly to the total price.

Quartz vs. Other Countertop Materials

To help you make the best decision, here’s a comparison chart that shows how quartz stacks up against other popular countertop materials:

Feature	Quartz	Granite	Marble	Laminate	Butcher Block
Durability	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Very high)	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐ (Can scratch easily)	⭐⭐ (Susceptible to damage)	⭐⭐ (Can dent/scratch)
Heat Resistance	⭐⭐⭐ (Use trivets)	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	⭐	⭐⭐
Stain Resistance	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐	⭐⭐	⭐
Maintenance	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (No sealing needed)	⭐⭐ (Needs sealing)	⭐ (Frequent sealing)	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐
Style Variety	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐	⭐
Cost per Sq. Ft.	$70–$150+	$60–$120	$80–$200	$20–$50	$40–$100
Lifespan	25–30+ years	20–30+ years	15–25 years	10–15 years	10–20 years
DIY-Friendly?	❌ (Pro install only)	❌	❌	✅	✅
Best For	Kitchens, baths, laundry	Kitchens, baths	Luxury baths, low use	Budget kitchens	Rustic kitchens

When to Choose Quartz

Quartz is ideal if you:

Want a luxury, low-maintenance countertop
Prefer a uniform look without the unpredictability of natural stone
Don’t mind paying a bit more for long-term convenience
Have young children or do a lot of cooking
Value hygiene and ease of cleaning
Are planning to sell your home and want to increase its value

When to Consider Another Material

Quartz might not be the best fit if you:

Are designing an outdoor kitchen
Prefer ultra-high heat resistance
Are on a tight remodeling budget
Love the one-of-a-kind look of natural marble veining

Final Thoughts from Trend Kitchen + Bath

Quartz countertops have become one of the most trusted choices in modern kitchens and bathrooms—and for good reason. With their blend of durability, elegance, and ease of care, they offer the perfect solution for homeowners who want a timeless, high-performing surface.

At Trend Kitchen + Bath, we work with leading quartz brands and offer a wide range of colors, edge profiles, and finishes. Whether you’re remodeling your home in Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, or Leander, our design team is here to guide you from inspiration to installation.