Quartz Countertops: Pros, Cons & Why They’re Perfect for Kitchens

Quartz Countertops at a Glance: Pros and Cons

What Are Quartz Countertops Made Of?

Quartz countertops are made from a mix of natural quartz crystals, resin binders, and color pigments. Typically, about 90% of the material is ground quartz, one of the hardest minerals found in nature. The remaining portion is a blend of resins and pigments that give quartz its wide variety of colors and patterns.

Unlike granite or marble, which are cut directly from stone slabs, quartz countertops are engineered surfaces. This means they’re manufactured in a controlled setting, allowing for consistent quality, smooth finishes, and colors that can range from bright white and soft gray to dramatic marble-look veining.

Thanks to this engineering process, quartz kitchen countertops and quartz cabinet tops offer the best of both worlds: the natural beauty of stone and the easy care of modern materials. The result is a non-porous, stain-resistant, and highly durable surface - perfect for busy kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance alternative to granite or marble, quartz is one of the best countertop options available, especially for homeowners who value both design and practicality.

Quartz - YES. But It’s Not Perfect. Here’s the Real Talk

What You Should Know Before You Buy?

Even the most popular materials have their downsides, and quartz is no exception. While it's loved for being durable and low-maintenance, there are a few things worth knowing before you commit. Let’s take a closer look at the trade-offs that might affect your decision.

• It Doesn’t Like Heat
  Place a hot pan directly on quartz, and you might end up with discoloration or even a crack. Always use trivets.
• Not a Fan of Direct Sunlight
  Planning an outdoor kitchen? Skip quartz. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to noticeable fading or yellowing of quartz surfaces. This is particularly important to consider if you're planning to use quartz in areas with significant sunlight exposure, such as outdoor kitchens or sun-drenched rooms.
• If You Love Natural Variation, Look Elsewhere
  Quartz is engineered for uniformity. If you want the wild veining and unpredictable character of marble or granite, you may be disappointed.
• It’s Not the Cheapest Option
  You get what you pay for - and with quartz, you're paying for beauty, consistency, and strength. But yes, it's often pricier than laminate, butcher block, and even some granites.

Pro Tip: Want to see how quartz compares to granite or marble? Read our in-depth Quartz vs Granite vs Marble Countertops comparison.

Quartz Cabinet Tops: Durable, Stylish, and Functional

Quartz cabinet tops are an ideal surface for areas beyond the kitchen, including bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basement bars. They offer sleek style, are non-porous, and resist spills from makeup, detergents, and cleaning agents. Quartz kitchen countertops offer a modern look and a lifespan of over 20 years - all with minimal upkeep. Unlike granite or marble, quartz cabinet tops don’t require sealing and maintain their appearance for years, making them perfect for both residential and commercial use.

Quartz Countertops Near Me: Why Chicago Homeowners Choose MGT Stone

From bold kitchen islands with waterfall edges to serene, spa-inspired bathroom vanities, quartz adapts beautifully to any style. Its clean look, durability, and minimal upkeep have made it a favorite in countless Chicago-area homes. Whether you're going for modern minimalism or timeless sophistication, quartz delivers both form and function.

Searching for quartz countertops near Chicago, Northbrook, or Naperville? Marble & Granite Tech has been a trusted name in countertop fabrication for nearly 40 years. From personalized showroom visits to expert installation and vein-matching, we help Chicago-area homeowners achieve beautiful, durable quartz countertops that elevate any space.

Want to see how real homeowners are using quartz? Browse some of our recent installations featuring local quartz countertops in Northbrook, local quartz countertops in Winnetka, and local quartz countertops in Highland Park — or explore more projects in Glencoe, Barrington, Evanston, Skokie, and Hinsdale.

Is Quartz the Right Countertop for You?