If you love the polished look of granite but don’t like the random color and pattern inherent in natural stone, Quartz (engineered stone) is the answer. Quartz countertops were invented in the 1960's by Breton S.p.A., an Italian manufacturer. Every manufacturer of Quartz countertops uses the same process they pioneered.
First a recipe of 93% crushed quartz and 7% polyester resin and pigments is combined. The quartz crystals range in size from grains of sand to crystals the size of rock salt. Some products also contain recycled glass and plastic chips. The mixture is then poured into forms, heated and subjected to vacuum vibro-compression to form a dense, impenetrable surface. The slabs are then diamond polished like granite. Slabs are usually manufactured in two sizes, 120"×55" or 128"×63".
Engineered stone is available in a wide range of colors with dramatic crystal displays that have a uniform pattern and even distribution of color. It is nonporous and will not support the growth of bacteria, viruses, mold or mildew. Some manufacturers infuse antimicrobial chemicals into their products as a further deterrent. It is extremely durable and easy to clean. Slabs are a uniform in thickness are seamed just like granite.
The product has two potential drawbacks. First, the polyester resin used in its manufacture will degrade in the presence of ultraviolet radiation. Therefore engineered stone should not be used where it will be exposed to direct, unfiltered sunlight which will cause the product to discolor and fade. Second, due the the restricted sizes of slab material there is a potential for greater unavoidable waste during fabrication which can have a dramatic impact on the installed price.
In 1993 Solid Surface Designs, Inc., began business as a factory
certified fabricator-installer for DuPont Corian. Since then we have
grown to become the region's largest fabricator and installer of Granite,
Quartz and Solid Surface countertops.
If you need help with an estimate, give us a call at (417) 258-2787 and ask for Doug, Holly, Mitchell or Sarah.