6 Reasons Not to Buy Faux Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops are a popular choice and are likely to stay, according to a National Kitchen & Bath Association survey. Many interior designers and homeowners can appreciate high-quality countertops’ functional and aesthetic features. 

Unfortunately, as quartz is becoming an in-demand material for construction and renovation projects, counterfeit quartz countertops are flooding the market. If you’re not careful choosing your pieces, you could buy faux quartz countertops. Although they look similar, they don’t offer the same quality and functional features, which could cause many problems later. 

Why To Opt For Authentic Quartz Countertops: Avoid Common Issues  

Here are six reasons to avoid purchasing faux quartz countertops: 

1. Resin Pooling

A genuine quartz countertop comprises 93% quartz combined with high-quality polymer materials and resins. The intense process results in pieces that are highly durable and color-consistent. Its non-porous features make it stain-resistant, while its durability makes it scratch-resistant. 

Faux countertops, on the other hand, have apparent signs of resin pooling. This results in inconsistent quality and large pools of coloured resin affecting the counter’s surface. Additionally, the lower-quality materials don’t prevent a piece from developing stains, chips, and scratches. 

2. Inconsistent Material Ratio

Authentic quartz manufacturers follow a strict ratio of quartz, resins, and other materials when creating quartz pieces. This ensures quality consistency with every piece. However, faux quartz is less consistent with its composition and often has very low quantities of quartz and high resin. 

Although some pieces may appear similar to legitimate quarts, they can cause faux quartz slabs to bend and pool resin. You may be disappointed in the long run when the slabs show signs of wear and tear much earlier than durable quartz pieces. 

3. Dye Lot Inconsistency  

While quartz offers consistency in colour and pattern, faux quartz countertops cannot. When you buy fake quartz pieces, there will be many dye variations between slabs. This is due to the amount of resin used, which can affect the pigment in one lot. As a result, you may get a different pattern and colour, which can affect the overall look of your kitchen or bathroom. 

4. Inconsistent Thickness 

When shopping for quartz pieces, you should consider the size you need. Authentic pieces are carefully crafted and have consistent thickness. On the other hand, faux quartz countertops aren’t made with the same level of precision, so their slabs could differ in thickness by a few millimeters. 

While the difference is small, it can significantly impact the overall quality of your space after installation. This is why it is vital to source your quartz pieces from genuine manufacturers with a trusted reputation, like Caesarstone. 

5. Price Inconsistencies 

You might find that the price of faux quartz is more inconsistent. Although the price can fluctuate based on the manufacturer, makers of imitation quartz drastically increase prices for certain slabs with specific thicknesses and colours. This usually happens if they find out that the buyer desires one colour and two distinct thicknesses for their countertops.

6. Potential VOCs 

Many manufactured products contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These substances are primarily regulated when creating products for use around food or in the kitchen. That’s because some substances may release gasses over the first years of the product’s lifespan. 

Faux quartz pieces are of lower quality, so they may not specify the chemicals used in manufacturing their material. These pieces for your kitchen countertops could have hazardous health effects if you plan to use them. It’s highly recommended that interior designers and homeowners get their kitchen countertops from legitimate and trusted sources like Caesarstone to minimise any health risks of lower-quality pieces. 

How To Identify Quality Quartz Through Conducting Everyday Tests 

Appearance Test 

Although authentic and fake quartz look similar, you can tell the difference by observing their appearance and features. One way to check is through a stain resistance test. Using a permanent marker, draw on the surface and see if it can be easily wiped off. Authentic quartz’s stain resistance prevents staining, while faux quartz leaves a mark. 

Additionally, search the ink-jet codes on the back of each piece, as legitimate quartz pieces made by a reliable manufacturer should have one. 

Scratch Test 

Quartz scores a seven on the Mohs hardness scale. This means it is highly scratch-resistant, especially from the regular wear and tear common in the kitchen. To verify real quartz, use a steel knife to scratch the surface. Steel ranks around 5.5 on the hardness scale, so it can’t easily damage quartz. 

Genuine quartz results in black lines, which are traces of steel since it’s softer than quartz. On the other hand, faux quartz will result in white lines. This indicates that the piece isn’t harder than steel and isn’t real quartz. 

Heat Test 

Authentic quartz is resistant to high temperatures and can withstand temperatures up to 300°C without deforming or breaking. However, faux quartz will warp or leave permanent marks when exposed to similar temperatures. 

Hold a lighter or match to your surface to conduct what’s commonly known as a heat test. If there are no marks left behind, it’s genuine quartz. Otherwise, the material material could likely be fake quartz.

Acid Test 

Pour a spoon of white vinegar on the surface and wait 30 seconds to see the reaction. If many tiny bubbles appear, the stone is fake. Faux quartz has high amounts of calcium carbonate, which reacts to the acidity of vinegar. 

From the functional and aesthetic properties, authentic quartz countertops are superior to their faux counterparts in every way. Although cheaper, fake pieces can break down quickly and have a short service life.

At Caesarstone, you can trust that each piece is crafted with the highest standards. Ensure your spaces look their best for as long as possible with countertops designed for durability and longevity. Order your own sample kit today and see the difference between our craftsmanship and quality.