Production, usage and properties of quartz worktops
Worktops made of quartz conglomerate are similar products to the ones made out of granite and marble. They are as durable, robust and resistant to all kinds of damage. It is thus no surprise that more and more people want to use them for their kitchens. For those who are considering the purchase of quartz worktops, we have prepared a collection of the most important information concerning their production, usage and properties. Are you interested? If so, then we invite you to read further!
The production process of the quartz conglomerates
The conglomerat quartz is produced out of quartz sand, which forms over 90% of the final product. Resin and colour pigments are also used as the remaining percentage. Sometimes these products are enriched with pieces of glass, mirrors or shells, which ultimately creates a very unusual effect. The sands in the production of conglomerates are very clean, and contain almost 100% silica. They can be white, gray, transparent or beige. They are combined with the polyester resin, which allows to obtain an insoluble and infusible surface and organic/inorganic pigments.
During the production of quartz, the conglomerate sand is produced by the special mixers where it is mixed separately, and later transported into another device, where it is joined with the rest of the ingredients. The finished mix is poured into rubber molds, thus the final solution is protected from all dirt. This is then carried on to the press, where for 90 seconds it it is treated in a 210-250oF temperature. After this time, the mold is removed with suction cups. The ready slab is subjected to further treatment after cooling, and includes removing any excess material and thotough aligning of the edges. Next steps are: calibration, alignment of the slab thickness, polishing of the quartz worktops and quality control.
Rules regarding the use of conglomerate worktops
Commercial conglomerate crystals are quite stable, but their scratch resistance is slightly smaller than worktops made from granite, therefore cutting things directly on their surface is not recommended. You also need to be careful when placing hot dishes on the surface. It is better not to do so, because the material may be discolored. We advise you therefore to obtain special placemats or chopping boards for cutting and hot pots and pans.
However, when it comes to care, it is true that it isn’t very demanding. Quartz worktops are perfectly smooth surfaces to which dirt does not stick, so just wipe them with a damp cloth and they will be all ready to go. To clean them, you can use alcohol-based products, with a delicate pH. Avoid the use of random detergents as well as those which contain wax, solvents or ammonia.
Properties of the quartz worktops
At the end I decided to write a few words about the properties of the products mentioned above. Without a doubt, they offer excellent durability, strength and resistance to mechanical damage and scratching (as long as things aren’t cur directly on the product surface). Besides, they do not stain, they are lightweight, hygienic and incredibly easy to care for. What’s more, they are completely environmentally friendly, antibacterial and available in many colours, which guarantees a lot of options in terms of styling and interior design.
If you want to learn more about quartz worktops visit polishgranite.co.uk
