What Are European Quartz Countertops and Are They Worth It in Ontario?
Planning to renovate your kitchen or bathroom in Ontario? You must have come across options like quartz & porcelain. Quartz is a popular choice; despite the aesthetics of the countertops, its cost remains the deciding factor. In this article, we will tell you what European Quartz Countertops are and whether they are worth investing in. Read on.
Quick Answer
- Offers clean lines and practical design.
- Is super hard and can easily withstand chips, scratches, and cracks.
- It is non-porous, so most stains can be easily wiped off.
- It is made with eco-friendly materials.
- Is immune to unpredictable flaws, which most natural stones have.
What Are European Quartz Countertops?
“European quartz” is high-quality engineered quartz. It is designed to appeal to local aesthetics. It has a minimalist, clean-lined, and functional appeal. These countertops reflect the “European ethos” of combining premium style with practical application.
How European Quartz Is Made
Marcello Toncelli and the company Breton S.p.A used the “vibro-compression” method of quartz manufacturing in the 1960s
- Raw, natural quartz crystals are blended with specialized polymer resins.
- The mixture is placed under a vacuum and subjected to intense compression.
- This turns the raw ingredients into solid, dense slabs. Since it’s man-made, manufacturers can control the design and consistency of the slab. These are made to be stronger than natural stones.
What Makes European Quartz Different
These countertops stand out due to three key factors:
- Engineered stones have a uniform appearance, which natural stones like granite and marble don’t have.
- These are made to be non-porous. This makes them immune to stains and bacteria. They don’t even need sealants, which most natural stones require.
- They are eco-friendly, made with raw quartz crystals and recycled industrial waste.
Where European Quartz Is Commonly Used
- They are mostly used in kitchens because of their ability to withstand heat.
- Their non-porous surface makes them ideal for bathrooms.
European Quartz vs Regular Quartz
Below are the differences between European Quartz and Regular Quartz :
| Feature | European Quartz | Regular Quartz |
| Manufacturing Standards | They are designed according to strict European quality standards. | Standards depend on different places of origin. |
| Quality Control | Display consistent quality. | Quality depends on brand. |
| Design Options | Available in many colors, patterns, and finishes. | Design variety is limited or depends on the manufacturer |
| Durability | Very tough, durable. They are resistant to scratches, stains, and chips | Durable only if made by reputable brands |
| Maintenance | They are usually Non-porous and do not require sealing | Non-porous and does not require sealing |
| Heat Resistance | European Quartz is resistant to heat. | Mostly heat-resistant, but hot cookware should not be placed directly on the surface |
| Environmental Focus | European manufacturers are bound by law to use eco-friendly production practices | Varies by manufacturer |
| Best For | It is ideal for Homeowners seeking premium design and high-end finish | If you are looking for a durable countertop at a wider range of prices |
| Price | More expensive | Available in many budget ranges |
| Lifespan | Can last for a long time, even up to 20 to 30 years or more, with proper care | Can survive 20 to 30 years. |
Benefits of European Quartz Countertops for Ontario Kitchens and Bathrooms
- Its non porous if you accidentally spill red wine or lemon juice, the liquid will just stay on the surface. On the other hand, spill will get inside the natural stone.
- It’s super hard and almost impossible to chip it ot crack it.
- If you previously used granite or marble, you must have spent a lot of time and money on sealing it. Your quartz countertop needs no sealing at all.
- The pattern, veins, and lines are consistent throughout the slab.
Cost Factors for European Quartz Countertops in Ontario
Factors That Influence the Total Cost
- Kitchen Size: The bigger your kitchen is, the more slabs and labor are required. Take a look at the example below.ย
| Kitchen Size | Average Cost Range |
| Small condo kitchen (25โ35 sq ft) | $1,500โ$3,500 |
| Larger kitchen (over 50 sq ft) | $5,000โover $11,000 |
- Edge Styles: Basic edge styles usually don’t cost much. Premium edge styles like waterfall edges, ogee, or mitered drops are expensive.
- Design Details: Extra cutouts mean more labor costs. A cooktop or under-mount sink requires more labor.
- Slab Thickness: The thicker the slab is, the more it costs. The cost of 2cm or 3cm slabs is different.
- Prep Work: If your contractor needs to remove old countertops, you will be charged for it.
Maintenance and Cleaning Tips
Quartz doesn’t need sealing, but you must clean it correctly. Below are some tips to keep your quartz countertops clean.
- Avoid using chemicals like bleach, vinegar, or detergents. They can damage the stone.
- Mix a few drops of pH-neutral dish soap into warm water, and use a microfiber cloth to wipe the countertop.
- Dry with a clean cloth to prevent streaks
- Wipe up any spills immediately.
- For stains, use a paste of water and baking soda to clean the stains off.
- Always use a heat pad for hot pans.
- Never chop food directly on the counter.
- If you notice scratches or cracks, contact your installer for professional repairs.
When European Quartz Is the Best Choice
European quartz is great if you are looking for low-maintenance, durable countertops. It is ideal for busy kitchens. If you have a large family and lots of kids and are afraid of spills, then quartz is your best bet.
It offers a wide variety of minimalistic aesthetics at a reasonable price. It can be a perfect choice if you’re tight on budget and can’t afford natural stones like granite and marble.
Ideal Homeowners and Renovation Projects
It is perfect for small condos and luxury homes because it can maintain its appearance for many years. It can make mid-range kitchens look high-end, which can increase your home’s resale value.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is European quartz?
European quartz is an engineered stone made from 90 to 95% natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. European brands use advanced methods to create highly consistent, durable, and non-porous slabs.
Is European quartz better than regular quartz?
Not necessarily. The biggest difference is in manufacturing quality rather than the material itself. High-end European quartz often offers:
- More realistic stone-like designs
- Better color consistency between slabs
- Strict quality control
- Excellent durability and stain resistance
Does European quartz need sealing?
No. European quartz is non-porous, so it does not require sealing. You can clean it with mild soap and water.
Is European quartz good for kitchens?
Yes. European quartz is an excellent choice for kitchens because it is:
- Resistant to stains and scratches
- Non-porous and hygienic for food preparation
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Available in a wide variety of colors and finishes
How long does European quartz last?
With proper care, European quartz countertops commonly last 25 years or more. Many remain in excellent condition for decades.
Can I choose my exact slab at GTA Marble?
Yes, you can view and select the exact stone slab for your project before fabrication. We will make sure you are happy with the color, pattern, and veining of the finished countertop.
Request a Quote
You can request a quote through our website, GTA MARBLES, or visit our showroom near you. For any questions or queries, you can contact us through our WhatsApp +1 (647)-860-2420