Quartz countertops have become incredibly popular in recent years due to their durability, aesthetic appeal, and easy maintenance. Many big brands manufacture quartz countertops, with DuPont being one of the leaders in the industry. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore whether DuPont makes quartz countertops and provide an overview of their quartz products, costs, pros and cons, and comparisons to other leading brands.
What is Quartz?
Quartz is an engineered stone made from crushed quartz combined with polymer resins and pigments. The quartz provides strength and durability, while the resins bind the material together.
Some key properties of quartz:
- Highly durable and scratch resistant
- Does not need to be sealed like natural stone
- Resists stains, acids, and heat
- Available in a wide range of colors and patterns
- Non-porous so does not harbor bacteria
- Lower maintenance than natural stone
- Not as heat resistant as granite but better than other materials
Quartz offers an excellent balance of aesthetics, practicality, and affordability compared to natural stone and solid surface countertops.
Does DuPont Manufacture Quartz?
Yes, DuPont is one of the leading manufacturers of quartz surfaces for countertops and other applications. Their flagship quartz brand is Zodiaq®, which is made in the USA using up to 93% natural quartz.
DuPont pioneered engineered quartz surfaces back in the 1980s under their Corian® brand. In 2003, they launched their Zodiaq line which was specifically positioned for countertops and vertical surfaces.
Some key facts about DuPont’s Zodiaq quartz:
- Made in the USA and backed by warranty
- Contains high quartz content for strength
- Proprietary Bio-based binder for durability
- Antimicrobial protection inhibits bacterial growth
- Large color collection with unique patterns
- Can be fabricated into countertops, floors, walls
So in summary, DuPont is a highly reputable and experienced quartz manufacturer and their Zodiaq line competes directly with brands like Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone.
DuPont Zodiaq Quartz Products
DuPont offers an extensive collection of quartz slabs under the Zodiaq brand that can be used to fabricate kitchen counters, bathroom vanities, backsplashes, walls, flooring, and more.
Here is an overview of the main product lines:
Zodiaq Quartz Countertops
- Available in over 100 colors/patterns
- Customizable edging/thickness
- Matte, gloss, or textured finishes
- Can be fabricated into large seamless counters
- 25-year limited warranty when professionally installed
Zodiaq Quartz Flooring
- Durable and scratch-resistant
- Available in tile format or large slabs
- Works for interior floors and exterior areas
- Has anti-slip properties when wet
- 25-year warranty with professional install
Zodiaq Quartz Wall Applications
- Can be used for walls, backsplashes, tub/shower surrounds
- Groutless installation possible for a seamless look
- Panels available for quick installs
- Moisture and stain resistant
Zodiaq Thin Quartz
- 1/4″ to 1/2″ thick slices for lightweight installs
- Good for walls, wainscoting, furniture, fireplaces
- Bonded to substrate for stability and strength
So in summary, Zodiaq comes in all the standard quartz products you would need for residential or commercial projects. DuPont offers plenty of unique designs and color options.
Cost of DuPont Zodiaq Quartz
The cost of Zodiaq quartz countertops ranges from $50 – $120 per square foot installed. This can equate to around $1,000 – $3,500 for a typical kitchen.
Exact quartz countertop costs depend on:
- Color/pattern – Popular styles cost more
- Edge treatments – Decorative edges increase price
- Thickness – 1 1/4″ is standard. Go thicker for durability
- Installation – Complex projects cost more
Zodiaq is competitively priced with other premium quartz brands like Caesarstone. It offers excellent durability and quality for the price. The unique patterns and large slab sizes allow for very custom projects.
You can sometimes save 20-30% by purchasing remnant slabs or having a smaller installer fabricate and install your Zodiaq counters. Always get 3+ quotes to find the best value.
Pros and Cons of Zodiaq Quartz
Here are some pros and cons to consider with Zodiaq quartz:
Pros
- Highly durable and scratch resistant surface
- Antimicrobial properties inhibit bacteria growth
- Large variety of colors and patterns
- Made in the USA with DuPont engineering
- Limited lifetime warranty
- No sealing required
- Easy cleaning and maintenance
- Resists stains better than granite
Cons
- Not as heat resistant as natural stone
- Patterns limit very large seamless counters
- Higher price than materials like granite or concrete
- Can chip if subjected to heavy impacts
- Manmade material lacks natural stone allure
Overall, Zodiaq quartz combines durability, low maintenance, and style. It’s ideal for busy kitchens and bathrooms that need to stand the test of time and family use. The patterns and colors allow for plenty of design flexibility.
How Does Zodiaq Compare to Other Quartz Brands?
Zodiaq is comparable to top quartz brands like Caesarstone, Cambria, Silestone and Viatera. Here’s how it stacks up:
- Durability: Equally durable and scratch resistant
- Appearance: Similar natural or patterned aesthetics
- Colors: Zodiaq has over 100 options
- Warranty: 25 years is industry standard
- Price Range: $50-$120 per square foot is typical
- Quality: Zodiaq is Made in USA with excellent quality
Zodiaq is very competitive and gives you great engineering from a trusted American company. Other brands import more of their quartz.
One advantage of Zodiaq is the unique patterns and large slab sizes that allow very custom projects. The gloss/matte finishes also give you design flexibility.
Overall, leading quartz brands are comparable. Pick based on color/style preferences, pricing, and availability. Zodiaq is an excellent choice.
Should I Choose Zodiaq Quartz?
Here are some factors to help determine if Zodiaq is the right quartz brand for your project:
Your Design Aesthetic
What colors and patterns suit your style? View Zodiaq slabs in person to get a feel for the wide range of options. They offer both simple and dramatic designs.
Usage Level
For busy kitchens and baths that need maximum durability, Zodiaq is a great option. It stands up beautifully to heavy usage.
Budget
Zodiaq is priced very competitively with other premium quartz options. Make sure it fits within your budget constraints.
Availability
Research suppliers in your area that carry Zodiaq. Material availability and lead times are important factors.
Eco-friendliness
Zodiaq contains up to 93% quartz and 7% bio-based resin. It’s an environmentally responsible option.
If these factors align with your needs, then Zodiaq offers an excellent combination of durability, style, quality, and brand reputation. Consult with designers and fabricators to determine if it’s the ideal choice.
FAQs About DuPont Zodiaq
Is Zodiaq quartz made by DuPont?
Yes, Zodiaq is DuPont’s flagship engineered quartz brand made in the USA. DuPont developed one of the original quartz surfaces.
What colors does Zodiaq quartz come in?
Zodiaq has over 100 colors and patterns covering popular styles like marble, granite, and concrete looks. Unique designs include metallic, pearl, and creative textures.
Does DuPont still make Corian countertops?
Yes, Corian is still available but is a separate solid surface material, not quartz. DuPont recommends Zodiaq for most countertop uses over Corian.
Is Zodiaq quartz good quality?
Yes, Zodiaq offers excellent quality due to DuPont’s engineering expertise. It has high quartz content and durability. Zodiaq competes with other top brands.
Does Zodiaq have to be sealed?
No, Zodiaq quartz does not need regular sealing like natural stone. It resists stains and damage without sealants.
Is Zodiaq quartz expensive?
Zodiaq is priced competitively for premium quartz, ranging from $50 – $120 per square foot installed. This aligns with major brands.
Conclusion
In summary, DuPont is a leader in engineered quartz surfaces and their Zodiaq line offers some of the highest performing and best looking options on the market.
With over 100 unique styles and durable American quality, Zodiaq quartz provides an excellent combination of aesthetics, practicality and affordability. It competes directly with other top brands and is widely available through designers and fabricators.
If you are considering quartz countertops or surfaces, be sure to explore the Zodiaq collection to see if it aligns with your project needs and design vision. DuPont provides a reputable brand, innovative patterns, and products suitable for all residential and commercial uses.