Quartz Worktops in Kent The History of Quartz Crystals over the Years

1. Quartz Worktops in Kent: The History of Quartz Crystals over the Years Quartz worktops in kent have become a staple in modern kitchens and bathrooms. They offer not only aesthetic appeal but also durability and functionality. The popularity of quartz has even spread over to commercial spaces. It is not uncommon to find quartz countertops as reception desks in offices and commercial buildings. However, it hasn’t always been a worktop. Rather, it has seen immense uses otherwise over the years. The history of Quartz kitchen worktops in Kent is nothing but intriguing. Origin of Quartz Crystals Quartz is a mineral that has silicon and oxygen atoms in it. It goes through a geological formation to gain the beautiful form that it has. Keep in mind that quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth. ● The primary component of quartz is silicon dioxide. You find this abundantly in the Earth’s crust. Furthermore, it is also a key component in a variety of rocks such as granite, and other silica-rich minerals. ● Quartz crystals can form under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions within the Earth’s crust. This happens as the magma cools or when rocks metamorphise. The heat and pressure can cause the silicon dioxide to arrange itself in a crystalline structure. ● Another common method is the hydrothermal process. In this, hot water with silica circulates through fractures and cavities in rocks. Furthermore, as the water cools, the silica begins to crystallize and form quartz. ● Quartz crystals often grow in the cavities and voids within rocks. These spaces provide the necessary room for the crystals to develop without the hindrance of rock material around them. , ● Furthermore, as the temperature decreases, the solubility of silica in water decreases as well. This precipitates into quartz crystals. The silica molecules bond together in a specific arrangement, forming the distinct hexagonal prism shape commonly associated with quartz crystals. ● Finally, external factors such as the presence of mineral impurities and variance in pressure and temperature can affect its colour. These factors also have a deep impact on its clarity. For instance, trace amounts of certain elements can give quartz crystals a certain colour. Quartz crystals can be found in a wide range of rocks, igneous and metamorphic. Further, even in hydrothermal veins and sedimentary deposits. Now the question is, how do they turn into kitchen worktops in Kent?

2. From Crystals to Quartz Worktops in Kent! Transforming quartz crystals into kitchen worktops in Kent is all about engineering. While the material is natural, the product is made at the end of the day. This includes other materials such as resins, polymers, and pigments. Besides, this process improves the durability and aesthetic qualities of quartz. Thus making it an ideal material for kitchen countertops. Here is an overview of how quartz crystals become kitchen worktops! ● First, we need to select high-quality natural quartz crystals. This is necessary as it is the primary material and makes up 93% or more of the worktops. ● Before we can turn them into worktops, we need to crush them into small uniform pieces. This is also known as quartz sand. Additionally, quartz powder may also feature in the recipe engineered. ●Once the quartz is ready, it’s time to add resin to the mix. The mixing process takes place in large machines. During this time, it is appropriate to add colour pigments. Adding pigments allows manufacturers to produce quartz worktops in various styles to meet consumer needs. ● The next step is to pour the mixture into moulds and compact it into slabs. For this process, we make use of vacuum and vibration. This helps remove air and ensure the slab is dense and solid. If you ever wondered how they’re so durable, this is exactly how! ● The slabs then undergo a curing process where they use specific temperatures to heat them. This step is necessary to activate the resin and create a strong and durable bond between quartz particles. Furthermore, curing ensures the worktop achieves its final hardness and strength. The Final Process manufacturers and worktop suppliers take care of the finishing once the slabs are cured. First, they need to calibrate and polish it. Calibrating ensures the worktop is evenly thick throughout the slab. The polishing makes it smooth and brings out the natural lustre of quartz crystals. Additionally, they also undergo a strict quality control check. With this, manufacturers can ensure that it meets the standards for colour, patterns, and especially structural integrity. After getting the green light from quality control, it is time to move on to the next step. This is all about cutting and fabricating it according to the need. They are cut into different shapes, and sizes and readied for kitchens and bathrooms. This also includes cutouts for sinks and other fixtures at this stage. Once all of this is done, it is packaged safely and sent to the store for delivery. If the location is near enough to the manufacturer, they may deliver it directly to the home. Quartz Worktops in Kent: The Installation The installation process for quartz countertops involves several steps. All these steps guarantee a proper and secure fit. ● First and foremost, measurement and template creation. This is often done before the manufacturing process.

3. ● Once the worktop is ready, installers will prepare your space for installation. This means removing existing worktops and cleaning and leveling the surface. Additionally, if you have cabinets in place, they will check for stability. ● First the installers will place it on the frame to check if it needs any adjustment. If everything is right, all that’s left to do is to seal it and bond it! For smaller worktops, many people attempt it as a DIY project as well. However, it can be heavy and you may forfeit your warranty. Conclusion Quartz crystals, formed in nature, undergo an engineering process for kitchen worktops. Further, the installation involves precise measurements, cutting, sealing and fitting. Thus giving you not only durable but stylish and functional worktops. If you want to learn more get in touch with Slabs and Stones Ltd. From answering all your queries to a perfect fitting, leave it to us!