We know that as a reader of this blog, you likely have a new home, or a home that needs refurbishing. Starting with the kitchen, you want it simple, clean, and lasting. This is where the decision between quartz worktops and laminate often comes in. Many people compare these two and wonder if spending more on quartz worktops is worth it, especially if the kitchen doesn’t see constant daily cooking. Let’s break it down.
Kitchen worktop Quartz vs Laminate: Understanding the Differences
Laminate is a basic material made by bonding layers of paper and resin together. It costs less upfront. However, over time, laminate may scratch, chip, or swell if exposed to water for longer periods of time. It might last about 4-8 years if you look after it well. That may be enough for some. But if you want something tougher, that will also give you a piece of mine, certainly consider kitchen quartz worktops.
Quartz Worktops – Their Incredible Resistance
Quartz is engineered from a mix of quartz mineral and resin. It’s denser and resists scratching far better than laminate. It also absorbs less liquid as it is imbued with water resistant properties during quartz slab fabrication.
Spills never leave permanent marks on quartz. If you’re asking yourself ‘is quartz porous?’ then the answer is no. Quartz kitchen countertops and quartz worktops for kitchens do not absorb liquid – even the harsh ones like wine or acid, so staining from coffee or wine is almost impossible. Heat and impact damage are also uncommon – quartz kitchen worktops often last 25 years or more. You see fewer problems with quartz countertops compared to cheaper surfaces like oak worktops or laminate tops.
Quartz Tops – Adding Value to Your Home
Thus, when weighing quartz worktops pros and cons, quartz comes out on top. Even if you barely use the kitchen, UK quartz worktops and other stone work surfaces hold value. Studies show that a home which utilises quartz across the home space: kitchen tops, windowsills etc. can raise the price of the whole property by as much as 5%!
Furthermore, if you sell or rent out later, having a kitchen with quartz worktops appeals to new occupants. They know these quartz kitchen worktops resist damage (guaranteeing safety to their deposit), making the kitchen, and thus the whole property, more appealing to occupy.
People often ask: are quartz worktops good? Yes, they are. Even small tasks like placing a hot pan or chopping vegetables won’t cause long-term harm. This peace of mind can boost resale value. In other words, kitchens with quartz worktops can give your property an advantage that you will certainly appreciate when it ever comes to reselling or renting out your place.
Comparing Costs: Is the Price Gap Worth It?
Now let’s discuss the numbers. Many homeowners start with a budget and look for kitchen worktops or a kitchen worktop quartz option that fits their wallet.
The price of quartz worktops is higher than laminate by a few hundred pounds, depending on thickness, material and supplier. If you search online for ‘quartz worktop UK’ or ‘price of quartz kitchens worktops,’ you’ll be able to find a couple kitchen worktop online calculators that will give you a rough idea of costs. If you want a good kitchen worktops quartz UK quote calculator, we have a recommendation: Here. They offer a decent number of kitchen quartz worktops colours too, for you to browse away.
On average, a cheap laminate worktop might cost £1.7k total with installation – naturally, costs may vary depending on choice.
A quality quartz kitchen top might start around £2.1k, but these costs rise with every addition that you make, the colour you select, the project design, size of your kitchen, the quartz worktop thickness you choose etc.
This might seem steep at first. But think about the benefits over time.
Kitchen With Quartz Worktops – The Advantages of Quartz
- Longevity: Quartz kitchen tops lasts easily over 20 years. Laminate may need replacing two or three times in that same period. Repeated replacements add costs.
- Quartz Durability: Kitchen worktops granite and quartz countertops uk options handle daily use better. Laminate scratches easily and looks tired and worn once damaged. Over time, that means more repair or replacement costs. When you consider quartz worktop pros and cons, durability shines.
- Property Value: Many buyers appreciate quality. UK granite and quartz options look solid. A quartz worktops kitchen finish tells future owners they won’t face big worktop headaches anytime soon. That can raise your home’s value. Spend £300 more now, possibly gain £2,000 at sale time. Although it is important that you choose a universal colour that won’t age badly. The marble-effect quartz varieties containing veins look like a promising choice that will be as modern in two decades as it is now. Marble, used across centuries in architecture, never became tacky or unappealing. It always exuded class.
- Hygiene and Maintenance: Quartz kitchen worktops uk products are non-porous. Wipe spills easily. Laminate can swell or bubble, leading to hidden costs and hassle. Quartz’s easy maintenance saves money on cleaners and future repairs.
- Long-Term Savings: Paying more now for countertop quartz or other high-quality stone saves you from replacing it later. Less stress, less money wasted.
Yes, generally worktop quartz costs more upfront. But with durability, a longer lifespan, property value boosts, and fewer hassles, the gap shrinks over time.
‘You get what you pay for’ definitely applies here very well. You must remember that quartz worktops and quartz worktops for kitchens pay off down the road, giving you fewer worries and better returns. A stone kitchen worktop granite and quartz are exceptional money saving investments that burden your pockets initially, but then grant you a lighter head.
Choosing the Right Kitchen Worktops – Final Conclusions
When choosing worktops for kitchens, consider laminate, quartz worktops, granite worktops, or ceramic. But if you want long-term value, a kitchen quartz worktop stands out. Issues are rare and benefits plenty. Quartz worktop pros and cons usually favour quartz.
What are the disadvantages of quartz countertops? The higher cost of quartz worktops is the only thing we can think of, but even that fades when viewed from a wider perspective and future investment in mind.
Quartz countertops benefits include durability, hygiene, fewer replacements, and better value. Worktops kitchens built to last save money and time. A top-tier counter quartz work surface may not be the cheapest at first, but it pays off.
If you’re a new-home buyer, a quartz kitchen worktop makes maintenance easier and impresses future buyers. If you renovate now, a quartz for kitchen top installation stands the test of time. You pay more today, but you skip extra costs tomorrow.
Think ahead when making your purchase. When it comes to picking a phone, it’s a no brainer – Iphone or Samsung over cheaper alternatives. So why skimp out on your kitchen work top? A product you will use daily, same as your phone.
If you want something reliable that adds property value and reduces headaches, consider quartz tops uk and quartz kitchen worktops uk products. Some pick laminate for quick fixes, but forward-thinkers go with quartz stone tops.
Choose wisely and invest in quality now to save later. That’s the benefit of going with kitchen top quartz, countertop granite, or ceramic work surfaces rather than a cheaper worktop alternative.
What do you think? Have you considered quartz worktops in your place? Do you find the extra cost worth it? Share your thoughts below.
