It may be a key component in every renovation, but choosing a kitchen countertop remains a tough, confusing process – even in 2018! There’s more to it than selecting a brand or finish; is the product well-constructed? How is it installed and maintained? Many homeowners (and companies) tend to overlook that, at the expense of a kitchen's durability.
Well, local countertop maker iQuartz plans to change that! Whether its using the best materials, latest processes or providing useful services that help ease a renovation process, here are 5 ways the brand is beating the competition in helping homeowners achieve a longer lasting, lower maintenance kitchen.
1. Only the toughest material is used to make their countertops
Quartz sand
Combining quartz sand with resin binders, engineered quartz has a stronger internal structure than natural stone, enabling it to take heavy loads and manhandling without caving in. It also makes it easier to cut without risk of cracks or uneven surfaces. Furthermore, the material’s non-porous, high-density surface keeps it resistant to stains and scratches and prevents mould or mildew growth - making it one of the most low-maintenance materials on the market.
iQuartz engineered quartz countertop in London Boy
In fact, iQuartz uses engineered quartz for all its kitchen countertops. The brand regularly visits manufacturers to source and pick out new pieces, ensuring a constantly updated variety of finishes for homeowners to choose from.
2. Digital methods are used to create better-fitting tops, faster
Photo templating process
Less worries about ill-fitting, unsafe tops due to human errors, especially with complicated designs. For complex jobs, iQuartz uses ‘Photo Templating’, a digital measurement process to calculate the exact dimensions based on photos taken of the cabinet frame and site area.
iQuartz engineered quartz countertop in Platinum
The brand even cuts down on production time by making its factories fully automated! Whether it’s handling orders through a cloud system or using the latest machinery to make precise cuts, homeowners don’t have to wait long (or stall their renovation) for their desired countertop.
3. Buyers can suss out quality through thousands of reviews and live photo updates
Reviews on iQuartz website
Not sure if the countertop you're getting is as hardy as they say? Well - thousands of homeowners can’t be wrong! Bringing transparency to the buying process, iQuartz features thousands of project photos and reviews, regularly updated on its webpage. So, if you’re on the fence about getting one, simply check out what others like (or dislike) about the product to make an informed decision.
4. They even created a sink that ‘protects’ your kitchen counter
iQuartz Hachi Sink (Couple)
What’s a countertop without a sturdy cabinet frame to hold it up? Unfortunately, kitchen cabinets are notoriously prone to water damage, which can cause it to weaken and cave in over time. The culprit? Leaking sinks (especially top or bottom mounted types) - due to algae growth and heavy weights that wear off its sealing.
iQuartz Hachi Sink (Couple) installed on a kitchen countertop.
Having encountered this problem in many kitchens, iQuartz decided to develop its own kitchen sink to reduce this risk! Enter the Hachi sink - featuring a flat, ridge-less finish that stops algae growth and water seepage, the flush-mount Hachi is held up by a groove inside the countertop, allowing it to carry heavy loads without risk of sealing tears. Made from tough, stainless steel, it basically protects the cabinet and countertops from water damage – enabling your kitchen to last longer.
5. And if things go faulty, you can (sort of) replace them
iQuartz engineered quartz countertop in Statuario Venatino
Countertops are like long-term investments – once up, they are difficult to dismantle and replace. That’s why, it’s not just about looking (and working) good for the next year. Can it hold up for the next decade? Each iQuartz piece is carefully inspected several times before being sent over for installation. Additional checks are done on site again and if any issues are spotted, installers are required to stop and bring the item back for rectification.
iQuartz engineered quartz countertop in Statuario Venatino
As proof of the brand’s quality, iQuartz even offers an additional assurance - an extended warranty period of 10 years. So, go on and put that countertop through the daily grime; if serious issues arise during that time, iQuartz’ installers and in-house staff will visit to assess, rectify or even replace the defective top*.
*Claims offered on a case-by-case basis after assessment by management. For defects caused by material issues only.
Function and form in the kitchen.
Hardy, consistent and convenient, iQuartz’ range of engineered quartz countertops are the perfect complement for functional kitchen spaces. With 37 different colours and finishes available to suit a wide range of styles, each slab can be customised and cut to fit any layout for a seamless look.
Head down to iQuartz’ Concept Store at Balestier to see and feel the full range of engineered quartz pieces at work. The only concept store that provides full slabs of marble quartz for viewing, consult with sales experts at hand to learn more about how you can incorporate iQuartz countertops into your kitchen.
Cover Image: LS2 Design and Construction