Quartz Archives - Marble Supreme Granite & Quartz Worktops Bristol Thu, 28 Apr 2022 12:27:04 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.2 https://marblesupreme.newicon.dev/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/cropped-Background-logo-32x32.png Quartz Archives - Marble Supreme 32 32 What Are The Top 10 Quartz Worktop Material Brands? https://marblesupreme.newicon.dev/top-10-quartz-brands-2/ Thu, 28 Apr 2022 12:24:43 +0000 https://marblesupreme.newicon.dev/?p=51282 The post What Are The Top 10 Quartz Worktop Material Brands? appeared first on Marble Supreme.

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Engineered stone is one of the most popular materials for kitchen worktops around the world. In recent years it’s seen a surge in demand as its beautiful appearance and durable nature lends itself as the perfect surface. Quartz kitchen worktops are becoming more and more sought after and there are a number of different types to suit everyone.

At Marble Supreme, we stock four popular quartz brands, in particular, Classic Quartz, Caeserstone and Silestone. We stock these brands because they each offer something different. But choosing a brand isn’t always easy. With so many different brands available, each offering different colours and patterns, we understand that it can get confusing. So, in no particular order, we’ve broken down the top ten quartz brands!

Caesarstone

Known as the “original” quartz company, Caesarstone was founded in 1987. Since then it’s grown to provide its stunning quartz stone to over 50 countries across the world. The stone is both practical and attractive. It’s used domestically for worktops and floors as well as commercially in museums and offices. Find out more about our Caesarstone offerings here

Classic Quartz

Classic Quartz boasts an extremely varied range of colours and patterns. Classic Quartz Stone can be made into numerous shapes, making it a desirable alternative to natural stone in homes and businesses. We have a number of Caesarstone swatches that can be viewed here, alternatively book an appointment to visit our workshop

Compaq 

Compaq stone has an exceptional aesthetic appeal, as well as being particularly resistant to wear. It’s ideal for areas with high-traffic because of how hard it is. In fact, Compaq is manufactured to be tougher than natural quartz, so it’s performance is much greater. It’s available in a wide range of thicknesses and finishes. 

Unistone

Unistone is one of the newest brands in the stone world. It’s engineered using the well-known Breton-technology. As a quartz compound, it’s extremely hard-wearing and is available in a wide combination of colours. 

Silestone

Silestone provides virtually unlimited possibilities in terms of applications. It’s perfect for kitchen worktops, bathroom vanity tops, tabletops, floors and even shelving. View the Silestone we offer here

Cambria

Cambria is a high-end quartz brand, usually only available from specialists. As a luxury engineered-stone brand, it’s coveted for its beauty and dedication to environmental sustainability.

Technistone

Technistone is a premium product that’s wonderful for commercial, industrial and private residences. Consisting of 93% natural quartz and granite minerals it can be easily blended with a variety of coloured pigments and resin. 

Okite

Okite is composed of a mix of natural quartz particles and a polymer resin, that’s becoming an increasingly popular choice for modern kitchen worktops. Claimed to be five times stronger than granite, it’s a tough stone with a luxury feel. 

Corian Quartz

Formerly known as Zodiaq, Corian Quartz comes in a range of 50+ colours and patterns. It’s a popular choice for those looking for a solid-surface. It’s a popular choice among architects and interior designers. 

Santa Margarita Quartz 

With a colour range inspired by the brand’s roots in Italy, the Santa Margarita Quartz line is a more high-end brand. The brand offers both standard and jumbo sizes of their slabs.

The ten brands above offer countless stunning colour and pattern options for your quartz worktops. Each brand has its own style and price-point. If you’re interested in finding out more about the brands we stock, take a look at our quartz page, dedicated to the brands we offer. Or have a read of our other blogs! 

If you’re considering updating your kitchen, get in touch with our team!

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Silestone vs Technistone – What is the best quartz for you? https://marblesupreme.newicon.dev/silestone-vs-technistone-what-is-the-best-quartz-for-you/ Tue, 26 Apr 2022 14:03:18 +0000 https://marblesupreme.newicon.dev/?p=51274 The post Silestone vs Technistone – What is the best quartz for you? appeared first on Marble Supreme.

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With so many different types of stone out there it can feel daunting when it comes to refurbishing your kitchen or bathroom. Silestone and Technistone are both premium brands of quartz. They share many similarities and often what you pick will come down to availability, but some differences may impact your decision.

Production

Silestone is made by Spanish company Cosentino, which has had a wealth of experience in delivering high-quality innovative surfaces globally since 1979. They have not only pioneered Silestone but also other leading brands such as Dekton and Sensa by Cosentino.

Technistone, initially known as Bohemia Stone, is based in the Czech Republic, and was recently acquired by American company Wilsonart Engineered Surfaces and from there the company has demonstrated a solid distribution network to dozens of countries.

Non-porous

Both Silestone and Technistone are non-porous, making them stain-resistant. This is beneficial as it means that liquid spilt on surfaces are not absorbed and therefore can just be wiped off without leaving a stain, as long as the spillage is removed promptly.

Hygienic

The non-porous nature of both Silestone and Technistone makes them both extremely hygienic. As there are no pores on the surface, bacteria have nowhere to become lodged, unlike with more porous surfaces like wood.

Variety of colours

Quartz is booming in popularity, and one of the reasons for this is the wide range of colours and patterns available. Although both Silestone and Technistone have an incredible array of colour choices, Silestone has more, with over 71 different colour options compared to Technistone’s 52. It is easy to find a colour that compliments your room.

Low maintenance

When cleaning a quartz worktop, it is better not to use harsh chemicals and instead opt for a mild, non-bleach and non-abrasive soap. This applies to both Silestone and Technistone, with the properties of quartz meaning they are stain-resistant, but not stain-proof. This means spillages should be dealt with as soon as possible.  

A durable long-term investment 

Not all quartz is created equal and cutting corners in installation and cost can lead to replacements needed sooner than expected. Silestone and Technistone are both highly reputable and quality quartz. As long as you choose a master craftsman to fit your new worktops they can last over 15 years. This is also dependent on placement, as quartz can be damaged when in direct sunlight.

Silestone vs Technistone

Silestone and Technistone are both high-quality quartzes, with Silestone just having a slight edge in terms of colour palette. But in most cases, your choice will be based on availability and supplies. It is beneficial to contact an experienced stone craftsman and find out what kind of quartz they have available to you.

Contact Marble Supreme today and we can assist with any of your quartz queries.

 

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Are Quartz Worktops Worth the Money? https://marblesupreme.newicon.dev/are-quartz-worktops-worth-the-money/ Tue, 26 Apr 2022 13:55:06 +0000 https://marblesupreme.newicon.dev/?p=51269 The post Are Quartz Worktops Worth the Money? appeared first on Marble Supreme.

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Quartz worktops don’t come cheap, but they’re well worth the price. There are lots of other potential countertop materials out there like laminate which can be more economical if you are looking for something short term. If you want to elevate your kitchen and boost the value and desirability of your home then you should definitely consider quartz for your worktop upgrades.

Durability of Quartz

Quartz is renowned for its durability and resistance to scratches. This means a quartz countertop will need replacing very infrequently. An Italian company created quartz countertops in 1963 with the aim of taking an extremely abundant material (quartz) and engineering it to be stronger than stone.

A material’s hardness is measured on the Mohs scale which is a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest and 10 being the hardest. Quartz countertops come in at a 7 which is harder than granite which is a 6.

Quartz is extremely durable, but it is not indestructible and it is possible to chip or scratch, however, with average daily use this is extremely unlikely.

How easy is it to maintain quartz worktops?

Quartz benefits from looking as luxurious as granite and marble but with the added bonus of being less porous so it is extremely easy to keep clean and bacteria-free. Generally, all that is needed to keep quartz counters looking their best is wiping them down with soapy water. For more stubborn stains we recommend creating your own quartz cleaning solution. This is simply a half and half of water and 91% isopropyl. This should go in a spray bottle and be sprayed onto the stain and left for five minutes before being wiped off with a microfibre cloth.

What does quartz look like? 

Quartz is an impressive material to have in your home, it has a luxurious look and feel. Quartz worktops are also a very easy to incorporate into your kitchen or bathroom as quartz comes in such a wide variety of colours and patterns from natural, neutral creams and greys, to eye-catching reds and greens.
If you are looking for an attractive stone with a lot of colour options that’s easy to maintain and will last you over a decade then quartz is definitely worth considering for your home. Speak to one of our experts at Marble Supreme if you have any questions about quartz or other stone for your home or business.

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How Long Do Kitchen Worktops Last? https://marblesupreme.newicon.dev/how-long-do-kitchen-worktops-last/ Fri, 28 Feb 2020 14:47:47 +0000 https://www.marblesupreme.com/?p=3004 There are plenty of claims across the industry that stone worktops can last a lifetime, but how long can you expect your kitchen worktops to last in your home? Replacing a worktop can be an intimidating prospect, so how can you avoid picking a worktop that won’t hold it’s integrity?  The majority of stone kitchen […]

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There are plenty of claims across the industry that stone worktops can last a lifetime, but how long can you expect your kitchen worktops to last in your home? Replacing a worktop can be an intimidating prospect, so how can you avoid picking a worktop that won’t hold it’s integrity? 

The majority of stone kitchen worktops are remarkably durable and can withstand a variety of wear and tear. Each material has plenty of pros and cons to consider. 

Investing in a high-quality kitchen worktop could add value to your home should you choose to sell. With an estimated 6% rise in value to your home. 

So, how long do different stone worktops last? 

 

Marble

There’s a reason why marble has been used to form historical buildings and sculptures for thousands of years, it’s just as strong as it is beautiful.

Marble is a popular material of choice for kitchen worktops, and it’s easy to see why. 

Despite being softer than granite and quartz, it has naturally heat-resistant qualities and is incredibly versatile. 

Typically, a marble worktop will last upwards of 10-15 years. 

If the marble is placed in an area that experiences low-traffic, it will generally last longer.

 

 

 

Granite 

In comparison to other worktops materials, granite has the longest life expectancy. 

On average, a granite worktop can stay in good condition for over 25 years. So, investing in a granite worktop really will pay off in the long run. 

Did you know granite is one of the hardest substances in the world, second only to diamonds? 

There are plenty of factors that will contribute to the condition of your granite. For example, making sure your worktop is regularly sealed will help protect it from everyday spills and stains. 

 

granite kitchen worktops bristol

 

Quartz

Although Quartz is an engineered stone composed of man-made resins, it actually has a shorter expected life span than most natural stone. 

Quartz worktops are also more prone to sun damage and heat damage from contact with hot pots and pans.

However, a high-quality quartz worktop can still last for an average of 15 years before a replacement may be needed.

Looking to replace your old worktops? Read more about how to prepare for new worktops

 

 

So, what’s the catch?

Your worktops can last for a very long time, however, how well you care for them will have a big effect on their longevity. 

Natural stone is susceptible to water damage, chips and cracks. Stains and scratches may not have a huge effect on longevity but it’s important to stay aware of these superficial issues because in high-volume they can contribute to a weakening of the stone. The softer the stone, the higher the risk of scarring and chipping.

If you are worried about your stone coping with the stress of high-traffic, it might be best to explore granite and quartz options for your worktops rather than marble. 

 

Investing in a stone kitchen worktop will benefit you for a lifetime if you care for them. And if you’re looking for peace of mind, you can rest easy knowing that we offer a 15-year warranty in association with Dry-Treat

Want to know how to care for your worktops? Read our blogs on how to clean your worktops, whether they are granitequartz or marble

 

Still not sure which stone is right for you?

At Marble Supreme, we’d be more than happy to explain the pros and cons of kitchen worktop materials. We want to help you find the perfect stone for your kitchen or bathroom and love to share our knowledge on beautiful stone materials.

Simply, get in touch today or visit our Bristol showroom to speak to one of our stone experts in person.

 

 

 

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How To Clean Your Bathroom Vanity Units & Countertops https://marblesupreme.newicon.dev/cleaning-bathroom-vanity-units/ Fri, 31 Jan 2020 15:06:10 +0000 https://www.marblesupreme.com/?p=2877 Vanity units are an excellent choice for those who are installing a new bathroom, wet room or simply giving their current bathroom that much needed makeover. They are designed to hold the basin, conceal unsightly pipework and ensure you have sufficient bathroom storage space. But without proper care, they can end up losing their appeal. In […]

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Vanity units are an excellent choice for those who are installing a new bathroom, wet room or simply giving their current bathroom that much needed makeover. They are designed to hold the basin, conceal unsightly pipework and ensure you have sufficient bathroom storage space. But without proper care, they can end up losing their appeal.

In order to keep your vanity unit looking its best, we’ve put together this simple guide with easy steps to follow and tips to ensure your vanity unit remains a statement in your home. Plus, we offer some great alternative, eco-friendly cleaning tips for you to consider.

GRANITE VANITY UNITS

Granite is one of the most popular choices for vanity units and countertops. It is naturally antibacterial and highly resistant to scratching and staining but it’s still important to maintain granite surfaces properly, and that includes understanding how to clean granite safely.

How To Clean Granite

To keep granite shiny, we recommend regular cleaning with a PH-balanced product or a mixture of detergent and warm water. You’ll need to remove any items from the surface of your bathroom vanity unit and wipe down the countertops with a soft microfibre cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads because they may scratch the surface, and remember to buff out any visible streaks afterwards.

Removing Stains From Granite

To remove oil-based stains like dirt or grease, we recommend a commercial alkaline degreaser. For tough, organic stains like wine or coffee, a commercial stone poultice is recommended but you can create your own (details to follow).

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Tips

If you’re trying to avoid using mass-produced, chemical-based cleaning products, we have collated the following green ways to maintain your bathroom vanity unit and countertop:

  • Try creating your own natural cleaning products using household items. Simply add hydrogen peroxide or acetone to baking soda until a paste is formed. Spread the mixture over granite using a clean cloth and repeat as necessary. Wipe the area dry and remove any excess to prevent leaving any sticky or cloudy residue behind.
  • Avoid using lemon, vinegar or acidic ingredients as they can damage the surface.
  • Once clean, try adding a few small drops of essential citrus oil onto your countertops to keep your vanity unit smelling lemony fresh.

Bathroom interior with marble walls, a double sink standing on white bathroom countertops and a two vertical mirrors hanging above it.

MARBLE VANITY TOPS

Marble, composed mainly of calcium carbonate, is a metamorphic rock. It can vary in colour from neutral whites and creams to pinks, greys, browns and black. With its rich colours and luxurious feel, Marble is another popular choice for stone vanity units and vanity tops. It is versatile to work with and keeping it clean is actually easier than you may think. Just be sure to avoid products containing acid.

How To Clean Marble

To maintain your marble vanity unit, we recommend that you wipe all of the surfaces regularly. You can choose to use a commercial marble cleaner but it is also possible to use plain soap and water. Simply spray the countertops with your chosen cleaning product and scrub the surface gently. Wipe away any excess residue with a clean wet cloth and repeat as necessary. Then rub the countertops dry and buff with a soft absorbent cloth.

Removing Stains From Marble

The key to removing stains from marble is correctly identifying the origin of the stain and then applying the most appropriate cleaning method.

Organic stains like food, paper or urine cause a pinkish-brown discolouration and can be removed using a mixture of water and a non-ionic detergent. For stubborn or tough stains, we recommend a mixture of equal parts water, white spirit and detergent. This will need to be shaken regularly to maintain the emulsion and prevent the mixture from separating.

Iron or rust stains are orange or brown in colour and can be removed using a stone poultice. However, deep-seated metal stains can sometimes be difficult to remove. Biological stains like mildew are common in bathrooms and wet rooms. To remove these, we recommend using ammonia or hydrogen peroxide. Although gloves should always be worn when handling these toxic chemicals.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Tips

  • Purchase an eco-friendly detergent at your local store or online. Mix a couple of drops with warm water and use a soft microfibre cloth to wipe down all surfaces. Next, use a clean, damp cloth to remove any sticky residue and buff away smudges with another dry cloth.

Bathroom vanity unit details with clean white basin with shower tiling behind

QUARTZ STONE VANITY TOPS

Quartz stone is made from one of the hardest minerals on earth and is arguably the most durable stone for your bathroom vanity unit. It comes in a variety of beautiful colours and patterns and is resistant to staining and scratching. It can even contain a resin which means it does not have to be sealed.

The specific cleaning requirements of your quartz stone will depend on the location within your home and how often it is used, but quartz is not hard to maintain. The following guide should help ensure you are able to keep your quartz countertops looking brand new.

How To Clean Quartz Stone

For routine cleaning, we recommend wiping surfaces with a mixture of warm water and soap. This should be done as often as required, but the more often this happens the better maintained your bathroom vanity top will be. To get rid of dirt, you can use a recommended putty knife but be careful to only scrape gently.

Removing Stains From Quartz Stone

To remove tough stains from your vanity units, you will most likely need a cleaner that is specifically made for quartz. If you’re unsure what’s safe to use then please ask a member of our team or check out our helpful FAQ section. We’re always happy to provide free advice and hope we can answer any of your questions.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Tips

  • Avoid using multi-purpose wet wipes and opt for liquid cleaning products and reusable cloths. This should save you money and reduce the number of wet wipes that end up in landfill.
  • If you are set on using wet wipes, choose a biodegradable alternative and dispose of your wipes in the bin rather than flushing them away.

It all sounds simple and that’s because it is. Maintaining your stone bathroom vanity unit should never be a chore and we hope with these simple tips you’ll be well on your way to a sparkling surface.

 

NEED OUR HELP?

If you’d like to find out more about the various properties of Granite, Quartz or Marble stone then feel free to explore our blogs or get in touch with one of our team today. Our trusted worktop experts will be on hand to impart their advice and recommendations. Or if you fancy finding out more about our wide range of kitchen worktop materials and bathroom vanity tops, why not pop down to our Bristol showroom in Kingswood and talk to us in person.

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7 Things You Didn’t Know About Quartz Countertops https://marblesupreme.newicon.dev/7-things-didnt-know-quartz-countertops/ Fri, 13 Dec 2019 11:36:50 +0000 https://www.marblesupreme.com/?p=2831 Not long ago we wrote about some of the things you might not know about marble. That blog has been very popular, so we thought we’d follow it up with a look at another fantastic kitchen worktop material — quartz.  If you’ve heard about quartz worktops but aren’t sure what they bring to the table […]

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Not long ago we wrote about some of the things you might not know about marble. That blog has been very popular, so we thought we’d follow it up with a look at another fantastic kitchen worktop material — quartz. 

If you’ve heard about quartz worktops but aren’t sure what they bring to the table (no pun intended), or if you’re just looking for a new worktop, but don’t know which material to choose – then this list is for you:

 

  1. Quartz worktops are engineered
    Although quartz itself is a naturally occurring mineral, quartz kitchen worktops are actually engineered. By mixing crushed natural stone (including quartz) with resin polymers, you get an extremely durable worktop that can mimic almost any stone type out there.
  2. Quartz doesn’t need sealant
    Most natural stone worktops are porous, which means they’re able to soak up liquids. Because of this, they need sealing occasionally. This isn’t the case for quartz worktops though, as the way it’s made leaves it essentially impenetrable.
  3. Italy is the home of quartz
    Breton, an Italian company, was the first to create quartz worktops, under the product name Bretonstone, in 1963. Since then, the company has licenced out its patented technology to companies around the world.
  4. It’s environmentally friendly
    Even though they’re manmade, quartz countertops are actually very eco-friendly. This is because the stone used to make them is actually recycled waste product from the quarrying process. And because quartz worktops are so durable, they don’t have to be replaced as often as other worktops.
  5. It’s not just used for worktops
    Because it’s so durable (and looks fantastic), one of the main uses of quartz commercially is for flooring. You’ll often find it on the floor of shopping centres and similar buildings with high footfall. 
  6. Quartz is cost-effective, but don’t be fooled by the cheap stuff
    Quartz has a well-earned reputation for being a cost-effective option for your home. However, don’t be fooled by suppliers offering cheap quartz worktops. You need to make sure you get authentic quartz and have it installed by an experienced provider.
  7. Quartz has actually made granite cheaper
    Granite was long considered one of the high-end options for kitchen countertops — and it still is. But thanks to the rise in popularity of quartz countertops, the price of granite has gradually dropped, thanks to falling demand for the material.

So there you go. Hopefully, you’ve learned a thing or two about quartz, that you weren’t aware of before. If you’d like to know more about quartz kitchen worktops, and what they could do for your kitchen, then contact us today, or pop into our Bristol showroom

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What Are The Top 9 Worktop Material Brands? https://marblesupreme.newicon.dev/top-10-quartz-brands/ Fri, 04 Oct 2019 12:52:14 +0000 https://www.marblesupreme.com/?p=2706 Engineered stone is one of the most popular materials for kitchen worktops around the world. In recent years it’s seen a surge in demand as its beautiful appearance and durable nature lends itself as the perfect surface. At Marble Supreme, we stock four popular quartz brands, in particular, Compaq, Caesarstone, Silestone and Unistone. We stock […]

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Engineered stone is one of the most popular materials for kitchen worktops around the world. In recent years it’s seen a surge in demand as its beautiful appearance and durable nature lends itself as the perfect surface.

At Marble Supreme, we stock four popular quartz brands, in particular, Compaq, Caesarstone, Silestone and Unistone. We stock these brands because they each offer something different. But choosing a brand isn’t always easy. With so many different brands available, each offering different colours and patterns, we understand that it can get confusing. So, in no particular order, we’ve broken down the top nine brands!

  1. Caesarstone – Known as the “original” quartz company, Caesarstone was founded in 1987. Since then it’s grown to provide its stunning quartz stone to over 50 countries across the world. The stone is both practical and attractive. It’s used domestically for worktops and floors as well as commercially in museums and offices. View the Caesarstone we offer here
  2. Compaq – Compaq stone has an exceptional aesthetic appeal, as well as being particularly resistant to wear. It’s ideal for areas with high-traffic because of how hard it is. In fact, Compaq is manufactured to be tougher than natural quartz, so it’s performance is much greater. It’s available in a wide range of thicknesses and finishes. View the Compaq stone we offer here
  3. Unistone – Unistone is one of the newest brands in the stone world. It’s engineered using the well-known Breton-technology. As a quartz compound, it’s extremely hard-wearing and is available in a wide combination of colours. View the Unistone we offer here
  4. Silestone – Silestone provides virtually unlimited possibilities in terms of applications. It’s perfect for kitchen worktops, bathroom vanity tops, tabletops, floors and even shelving. View the Silestone we offer here. 
  5. Cambria – Cambria is a high-end brand, usually only available from specialists. As a luxury engineered-stone brand, it’s coveted for its beauty and dedication to environmental sustainability.
  6. Technistone – Technistone is a premium product that’s wonderful for commercial, industrial and private residences. Consisting of 93% natural quartz and granite minerals it can be easily blended with a variety of coloured pigments and resin. 
  7. Okite – Okite is composed of a mix of natural quartz particles and a polymer resin, that’s becoming an increasingly popular choice for modern kitchen worktops. Claimed to be five times stronger than granite, it’s a tough stone with a luxury feel. 
  8. Corian Quartz – Formerly know as Zodiaq, Corian Quartz comes is available in a range of 50+ colours and patterns. It’s a popular choice for those looking for a solid-surface. It’s a popular choice among architects and interior designers. 
  9. Santa Margarita Quartz – With a colour range inspired by the brand’s roots in Italy, the Santa Margarita Quartz line is a more high-end brand. The brand offers both standard and jumbo sizes of their slabs.

The ten brands above offer countless stunning colour and pattern options for your worktops. Each brand has its own style and price-point. If you’re interested in finding out more about the brands we stock, take a look at our quartz page, dedicated to the brands we offer. Or have a read of our other blogs

If you’re considering updating your kitchen, get in touch with our team!

Follow us on Facebook to see our latest work. 

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Quartz Vs Corian Worktops – Which Is The Best Kitchen Worktop? https://marblesupreme.newicon.dev/quartz-vs-corian-worktops/ Tue, 18 Jun 2019 11:05:02 +0000 https://www.marblesupreme.com/?p=2516 When it comes to choosing a type of stone for your kitchen worktop, there’s no doubt that Quartz stone is rising in popularity. It’s the ideal material for high-use areas and it’s certainly the most durable material on the market. But with its seamless appearance and flexibility, could Corian be a worthy alternative? QUARTZ: Quartz […]

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When it comes to choosing a type of stone for your kitchen worktop, there’s no doubt that Quartz stone is rising in popularity. It’s the ideal material for high-use areas and it’s certainly the most durable material on the market.

But with its seamless appearance and flexibility, could Corian be a worthy alternative?

QUARTZ:

Quartz has been the leading worktop material for years, and it’s well-loved in the industry thanks to its unrivalled beauty and resilience.

The manufacturing of quartz blends together approximately 93% natural quartz stone along with other granite and mirror chips for shine, as well as customisable pigments and resins to form a totally sealed and polished surface. Therefore, the stone has the strength and colour range that other materials often lack.

Benefits:

  • Wider choice of colours in comparison to other natural stones – as aforementioned, the ability to customise quartz is a huge advantage. The range of colours available is unmatched.
  • Extremely hardwearing and versatile – As one of the hardest materials in the earth, quartz is naturally robust.
  • Resistant to staining – Quartz is non-porous, therefore it is much less susceptible to staining, unlike granite or marble. Any spills can be wiped off with a damp cloth.
  • Minimal maintenance – There is no need to apply any extra sealants or solutions and it does not require any routine maintenance other than the occasional wipe down with soap and water.
  • Antibacterial properties – Quartz has its own anti-bacterial properties that make it perfect for safe food preparation.

Cons:

  • Can fade and become discoloured – One of the risks of having a quartz worktop is that it can fade when exposed to a considerable amount of natural sunlight.
  • Heavier than granite – Quartz is extremely heavy, and as a result, it needs professional installation. It is also vital that the frame is strong or it will not hold the worktops.
  • Seams can be visible – Unlike Corian, the seams in quartz worktops can be visible.  However, these seams can be hidden. In cases where seams are more apparent seams can be coloured, polished and coated to hide them.  If seams are of concern, choosing dark quartz worktops or solid colour will naturally help reduce the visibility of joins and seams.
  • Not heat resistant – Much like the other worktop materials, quartz is not completely heat resistant so an element of care is needed when hot pots and pans are involved.

 

CORIAN:

Corian is a man-made product composed of resin and filler. Acrylic resin is applied to the top of a substrate material such as wood to create seamless worktops that can be fitted and moulded into many contemporary designs.

Benefits:

  • Man-made – As a manufactured product, Corian was designed with the sole purpose of being a sleek, modern and durable worktop.
  • Seamless finish – Unlike natural stones, there’s no need to worry about any unsightly seams. 
  • Stain-resistant – Corian’s non-porous properties mean spills and stains are not an issue. A Corian worktop is very hygienic and can simply be wiped down with a damp cloth.
  • Flexible – Corian’s versatility allows for the perfect amount of flexibility for easy installation and any shape or size of bespoke designs.
  • Repairable – Chips and cracks can easily be repaired.

Cons:

  • Expensive – Despite it being a man-made product, Corian can sometimes be more expensive than natural stone.
  • Easily damaged by heat – While it can withstand certain levels of heat, Corian is more susceptible to heat damage than some natural stone such as granite.
  • Can look industrial Due to the nature of it being man-made, Corian does struggle to mimic the aesthetics of natural stone.
  • Water damage – If water seeps through the exterior resin and onto the filler beneath, it can cause irreparable damage. In such cases, it’s very likely that the whole worktop will need to be replaced.
  • Susceptible to scratching – Corian is much more at risk of scratching. Thankfully, most shallow scratches are easy to buff out. Preparing and cutting directly on the worktop can cause damage and potential bacterial risks. 
  • Risk of Further Damage – It is also important to take care of placing heavy objects on the worktop as Corian is also prone to denting.

Still unsure whether to choose Quartz or Corian?

Generally, Corian may be great in terms of flexibility of price and design, but when it comes to withstanding the test of time – Quartz cannot be beaten. True to its popularity, quartz really is the ideal material for kitchen worktops and vanity surfaces.

The most essential thing to keep in mind when deciding between materials is what you need. Having a checklist of requirements will help you differentiate between which worktops will work for your home and which worktops that are unsuitable.

You can find out more about the worktops we work with, by visiting our engineered stone page.

If you have any questions about installing Quartz or Corian worktops into your kitchen, feel free to take a look at our guide to buying and installing kitchen worktops. Or give us a call on 0117 956 3030.

The post Quartz Vs Corian Worktops – Which Is The Best Kitchen Worktop? appeared first on Marble Supreme.

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A Complete Guide To Caring For Your Quartz Worktops https://marblesupreme.newicon.dev/complete-guide-caring-quartz-worktops/ Thu, 28 Mar 2019 13:34:56 +0000 https://www.marblesupreme.com/?p=2470 Transforming your kitchen with brand new quartz worktops is a big investment in your house and in your lifestyle. It’s not something you do every day, so you want your worktops to last as long as possible. Thankfully, if you take care of your new worktops they should last for many years to come. Quartz […]

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Transforming your kitchen with brand new quartz worktops is a big investment in your house and in your lifestyle. It’s not something you do every day, so you want your worktops to last as long as possible.

Thankfully, if you take care of your new worktops they should last for many years to come.

Quartz is an unbelievably resilient material that can easily last decades. But, as with all materials, if you mistreat it, it won’t last as long as you’d like.

That’s why we decided to create this blog — to give you all the information you need to care for your quartz worktops, keeping them looking good as new both now, and long into the future.

So, without further ado, let’s get into it.

Sealing

The first thing you need to check is that your surface has been properly sealed. If you got your worktop from us, then you’ll know already that we always seal out worktops with Dry-Treat sealant — a world-leading permanent impregnating sealer and stain protector.

If your worktop hasn’t been sealed, get in touch with us today to find out how we can help you get it sorted.

Cleaning

Daily maintenance

You don’t need to spend much time, but it’s important to take a few minutes each day to give a little care to your worktops.

Use warm water with just a drop of surface cleaner (antibacterial if you like) to ensure that your worktops are clean. And don’t forget to rinse them afterwards and keep them dry with a soft cloth.
Make sure you quickly clean up any spillages, whether it’s food or drink. This’ll help you to avoid staining and means that you won’t have to deep clean quite as often.

Deep clean

Occasionally (particularly if you don’t clean daily) you could end up with a tough-to-clean layer of grease and grime on your worktops, that won’t come off with the method mentioned above.

If this happens, you’ll simply need to use a slightly stronger cleaner. You can mix together your own quartz cleaning solution by mixing together isopropyl alcohol and dish detergent. Mix together a 50:50 solution of water and 91% isopropyl alcohol into a spray bottle. Spray onto the stone surface and allow to sit for 5 minutes, then rinse with water and wipe down with a clean microfibre cloth. This will remove excess soapy water and periodically disinfect your quartz worktops, restoring their natural shine.

You can find more info on cleaning quartz worktops in our previous blog post on the topic.

Cleaning dos and don’ts

Do

  • Clean spills immediately
  • Clean daily
  • Use soft cloths or sponges

Don’t

  • Use glass cleaner, bleach or other household cleaners
  • Use anything acidic to clean, such as vinegar or citrus
  • Use bathroom, tile or grout cleaners
  • Use anything abrasive to clean with — no scourers!

Care

Apart from cleaning, there are other things you can do to make sure your quartz worktops last as long as possible. An important thing to remember is that although quartz is an extremely hard and durable material, it does need to be treated with a little care and consideration.

Here’s a list of dos and don’ts when it comes to caring for your worktops:

Care dos and don’ts

Do

  • Always use cutting boards for food preparation
  • Use coasters for glasses and cups
  • Use heat pads or stands for pots and pans, even cold ones

Don’t

  • Cut or chop directly onto your work surface
  • Sit or stand on your worktops
  • Don’t store anything that might spill something nasty directly on your worktop

Enjoy your kitchen

Although this sounds like a lot, in reality, it takes very little work (and just a bit of care and attention) to keep your quartz worktop in great condition.

As we mentioned earlier, quartz is a fantastically resilient and hardwearing material — so following the advice in this blog, you can expect it to last you a lifetime.

Interested to find out more about how to clean other worktop materials? We have blog posts about that too! Take a look at our guide on how to clean granite kitchen worktops.

The post A Complete Guide To Caring For Your Quartz Worktops appeared first on Marble Supreme.

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Choosing The Right Colour And Pattern Of Quartz For Your Kitchen Worktop https://marblesupreme.newicon.dev/choosing-the-right-colour-and-pattern-of-quartz-for-your-kitchen-worktop/ Wed, 12 Sep 2018 15:59:40 +0000 https://www.marblesupreme.com/?p=2279 Quartz worktop stone — a man-made material, formed of crushed quartz and bonded with resin, polymers and pigments — is one of the most versatile materials you can choose for your kitchen. Available from a wide variety of brands (including Unistone, Silestone and Caeserstone), quartz offers a range of colours, patterns and textures, to fit […]

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Quartz worktop stone — a man-made material, formed of crushed quartz and bonded with resin, polymers and pigments — is one of the most versatile materials you can choose for your kitchen. Available from a wide variety of brands (including Unistone, Silestone and Caeserstone), quartz offers a range of colours, patterns and textures, to fit with your kitchen — not to mention it’s durability.

In fact, quartz offers you so much choice in terms of colour, that it can be tough to make a final decision on your kitchen. After all, your worktops are often the centre point of the kitchen, and once installed you won’t want to change them in the short term. So the rest of the kitchen really has to work with what you choose.  

To help you with the decision, we‘ve put together a few tips.

Think long-term

When choosing the colour of your quartz worktops, remember that this will be the colour that will last in your kitchen for years, if not decades, to come. If you base the colour of your worktops on your current paint and furniture, what happens when your tastes change? Our suggestion is to go for a colour that mixes well with others, allowing for flexibility in your decor as the years go by. We also recommend treating a new worktop as an opportunity to re-decorate your entire kitchen.

Don’t skimp on the samples

Seeing a colour in the showroom is one thing. But there’s no substitute for seeing what any particular colour looks like in the room it’ll end up in. That’s why we always recommend that you take a sample (or a few), and take them home to check that the colours and patterns work in your kitchen.

Choose with a colour wheel

Following on from the previous point, a colour wheel is a great tool for helping you choose colour combinations that work. A colour wheel can help you ensure that different accents and undertones — the colour of items such as your cabinets, sinks, or chairs — don’t clash with your worktops.

Dual colours

Another important thing to keep in mind is that many quartz worktops have elements of a secondary colour. Often this secondary colour is neutral, but occasionally it can be a strong colour. So you need to keep this colour in mind, too, when deciding on the overall look of your kitchen. Thanks to the nature of quartz worktops, the amount of this secondary colour will be uniform throughout, so it’s easy to see how much of that colour you’ll end up with by looking at a sample.

Pop in and see for yourself

Keeping those points in mind will give you a great headstart when it comes to choosing the ideal colour of your quartz worktop. But there is another important step to remember — come in and see our quartz worktops for yourself. There’s no substitute for seeing and feeling a material in real life.

At our Bristol showroom, you’ll be able to see a selection of our quartz worktops (as well as granite and marble) in a range of colours. When you’re there we can help you decide which colour and material might work best in your kitchen.

Pop in to see us today at:

Unit 8 Bridge Road

Kingswood

Bristol

BS15 4FW

Or call in advance to arrange a full consultation, call us on:

0117 956 3030

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