Low Silica Quartz Worktops vs. Traditional Quartz: What’s the Difference?
What is silica?
Silica is in the earth’s crust and when it is disturbed, it creates silica dust. It’s a material that is found in a range of stones used in construction and building. So, when these stones containing crystalline silica are sanded, polished, and cut, silica dust forms and poses serious health risks to those exposed to it.
What is low silica quartz?
Low silica, or silica-free worktops, are sustainable worktop solutions that are made up of bio-based resin, recycled glass, and less than 5% silica. A worktop with a very small percentage of silica means that it’s more eco-friendly and less of a health risk.
At Mo’s StoneX, we’re pleased to have 0 silica quartz as part of our extensive quartz collection. Our expert manufacturers and suppliers ensure that sustainability and safe work zones are prioritised, delivering bespoke products while maintaining the highest standards of quality.
How is it different to traditional quartz?
Traditional stone materials such as quartz and granite contain crystalline silica. If you’re wondering how much silica is in quartz, quartz typically has 90% and granite has 40-50%. Working around materials that contain high levels of silica can cause serious health conditions such as silicosis and lung disease. This is a result of inhaling silica dust throughout the manufacturing process.
On the other hand, worktops with 0 silica don’t have this risk and is a contributing factor to why low silica quartz is gaining popularity!
Benefits of choosing low silica quartz
The great thing about low silica quartz is that it still has the same benefits as traditional quartz worktops, as well as the extra advantages!
Eco-friendly
Less silica also means less silica dust! This has a better impact on the environment because it reduces the amount of dust in the atmosphere, minimising air pollution. Plus, if silica is not used as part of the quartz mixture, manufacturers source sustainable options instead, such as recycled and resin-based materials. They are not only sustainable sources, but also ensuring that natural resources remain in the ground.
Safer and healthier option
Low silica options create a safe environment for those involved in the manufacturing process. This is because exposure to silica dust risks silicosis, which is a serious lung disease that has no known cure. So, by using low silica or silica-free quartz, it eliminates the risk of falling ill because there are minute amounts of silica dust, compared to a dangerous amount from traditional quartz.
Durable
Despite having different properties to traditional silica quartz, low silica worktops are still incredibly durable. They maintain their stain, scratch, and heat resistance which make them ideal for busy areas in the home, such as bathrooms and kitchens. They’re also non-porous so they’re a hygienic option for these rooms since harmful cleaning chemicals and bacteria don’t seep into the surfaces! Additionally, quartz is naturally tough, so will last for years to come while looking stunning in your home.
Stunning appearance
Low silica quartz worktops retain their beauty. Available in a wide range of colours, styles, and finishes, there will often be a quartz worktop (silica or not) suited to your preferences.
Easy to maintain
Even when quartz has a lesser amount of silica in it, it doesn’t make a difference to the low-maintenance of the material. All you have to do to keep your quartz countertops gleaming is use a mild soap, a gentle cloth, and warm water to clean the work surface.
Cost comparison: Is low silica quartz a better investment?
The cost of quartz depends on the quality of the quartz, as well as the company that you purchase it from. The percentage of crystalline silica content also factors in to the cost.
Typically, quartz slabs with less silica, costs more than those with high silica content. This is simply because the resources cost more to source! However, it reaps incredible benefits, including durability and beauty, as well as being a safer and healthier alternative.
How Mo’s StoneX Can Help
Mo’s StoneX is an experienced supplier, manufacturer, and installer of premium granite, Dekton and quartz worktops all across the UK. If you’re looking for a top-quality worktop at a competitive price, we should be your first choice.
At Mo’s StoneX, we are committed to delivering exceptional service, expert craftsmanship, and professional installation, ensuring you create a space you’re proud of. Our friendly team of experienced professionals is dedicated to perfection, carefully cutting, polishing, and installing our bespoke worktops to match your exact vision. Health and safety and customer satisfaction is our top priority, and we aim to exceed your expectations with the final result.
Our extensive selection of colours, styles, and finishes makes it easy to find a worktop that matches your taste at Mo’s StoneX. No matter your interior design wishes, we’re here to help make your dream kitchen.
Fill out our online enquiry form for a free quote today, or get in touch with our team to begin your kitchen transformation!
