When installing countertops in kitchens and bathrooms, you may choose engineered quartz for its durability and stylish appearance. According to RPM Reliance, professional fabricators cut, shape, and finish the slabs to create a proper fit and to match the home’s surfaces seamlessly. Here’s a closer look at how engineered quartz countertops are made from start to finish:
Sourcing and Mixing
To create engineered quartz countertops, specialists combine natural and synthetic materials to produce a durable and consistent product. Manufacturers source quartz, polymer resins, and dyes to enhance both the appearance and strength of the countertop; this makes it visually appealing and long-lasting. Once the raw materials are gathered, professionals crush the quartz crystals and blend them with pigments and other additives. They use Industrial mixers to produce even resin distribution and accurate color matching throughout the mixture. Vacuum blending is one method used to reduce air pockets, which helps the finished countertops withstand daily wear and tear in the kitchen.
Molding and Compacting
Once experts achieve a consistent mixture, they pour it into molds that produce slabs in various thicknesses and sizes; these open molds create uniform products that are easy to fabricate and install in kitchens and bathrooms. After the mold is filled, it undergoes a vacuum process to make the slabs non-porous and durable. Compacting the slabs enables the resin to thoroughly coat the quartz particles, enhancing the surface’s resistance to damage during regular use. This process results in slabs that are:
- Solid and dense
- Resistant to cracks, chips, and scratches
- Smooth and even for efficient cutting and polishing
Curing and Polishing
Slabs harden in industrial ovens after being molded and compacted; this step helps prevent issues such as warping and water damage when surfaces are exposed to heat or moisture. Once the slabs have cured, specialists allow them to cool at room temperature to prevent the development of small cracks. Professionals use automated cutting tools to trim the slabs to sizes that suit different projects. If there are uneven or excess edges on the mold, specialists may remove them at this stage.
Experts polish the slabs to produce glossy, matte, or textured surfaces that cater to the preferences of various clients. Polishing the slabs helps make the color and pattern more visible, so you are able to have the design be prominently displayed. The process also produces smooth surfaces that are easy to clean and may prevent stains from forming. Professionals shape the edges to create beveled, eased, and ogee styles, among others. Some manufacturers may add UV-protective coatings to shield the countertops from excess sunlight; this helps prevent fading or discoloration.
Shaping and Customizing
At a local fabrication shop, companies can shape and customize quartz slabs to fit around cabinets, walls, sinks, and appliances. Professionals cut the slabs depending on how the veins flow on the surface to maintain consistency and aesthetic appeal. Quartz slabs are also shaped to fit awkward wall designs in older homes, creating a clean and custom appearance. If backsplashes are part of the design, experts cut the slabs to the specific height and shape needed. Cutting these slabs properly reduces the need for filler or caulk to fill gaps within the countertops. Some engineered quartz options can be made to resemble the look and feel of natural stone, yet they are created to be harder and more durable.
Invest in Quality Engineered Quartz Countertops
Whether you have a small or large installation project, you can buy quality engineered quartz slabs from trusted sellers. Some vendors allow you to inspect the products in person at their showrooms before making a purchase. To explore the products and portfolio of a trusted company, call them today.
