How to Order Quartz Countertops

Introduction

Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects in recent years. Made from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments, quartz delivers an attractive, low-maintenance, and durable surface.

When it’s time to replace your outdated laminate or tile countertops, quartz provides a modern, elegant look that can greatly enhance the style and value of your home. Unlike natural stone, quartz does not need regular sealing and polishing to maintain its finish. Quartz also resists scratches, stains, heat damage, and other common problems homeowners experience with countertops.

With endless options for colors, patterns, and finishes, quartz allows you to customize your countertops to match your unique taste and decor. However, the process of selecting, purchasing, and installing quartz countertops includes many steps. Careful planning and attention to detail are required to ensure you receive the beautiful, functional quartz countertops of your dreams.

This comprehensive guide provides step-by-step instructions for how to order quartz countertops for your next remodeling project.

How to Choose the Right Quartz Countertops

Choosing the perfect quartz countertops starts with understanding the options available today in colors, patterns, finishes, and quality.

Styles of Quartz Countertops

Solid quartz – Made from colored and crushed quartz crystals combined with resins for a consistent, uniform look. Solid quartz delivers a smooth, streamlined appearance.
Patterned quartz – Contains various methods of adding texture and visual interest, like swirls, veining, speckles, and more. Patterns mimic natural stone.
Neutral quartz – Designed in lighter, subtle cream, gray, and white tones to deliver understated elegance. Neutral palettes blend with any decor.
Dark quartz – Bold dark colors like black, charcoal, navy, and chocolate for an eye-catching, dramatic statement.

Finishes for Quartz Surfaces

Polished – Glossy, mirror-like shine. Easy to clean but shows scratches.
Satin – Soft glow with very little shine. Masks marks well.
Honed – Matte, zero-sheen finish. Most resistant to showing daily wear.
Textured – Adds dimension and interest with brushed or etched patterns.

Factors to Consider When Selecting Quartz

Color – Examine quartz samples in different lighting at varying times of day. Lighter quartz often appears more pronounced.
Patterns – Busy patterns can be distracting in small kitchens. Simple, solid styles open up the space.
Maintenance – Polished finishes require diligent cleaning. Honed is more forgiving.
Durability – Consider heavy-use areas like a butcher block island. Avoid delicate patterns.
Coordination – Sample quartz together with cabinetry, flooring, and hardware for the best match.

Top Brands of Quartz Countertops

High-end quartz countertops are available from several leading manufacturers:

Caesarstone – Offers around 50 colors and patterns covering elegant to bold. Known for quality and consistency.
Cambria – Focused on creating unique designs inspired by natural stone. Many muted, harmonious hues.
Silestone – Features 90+ color and pattern options in both neutral and vivid styles. Popular brand.
Viatera – Minimal veining creates a distinctive polished or matte solid quartz look. Subtle, contemporary colors.
Vicostone – Concentrates on neutral tones and adaptable styles for understated luxury. Excellent durability and scratch resistance.
LG Hausys – Specializes in fluid veining patterns. Budget-friendly prices for high-end quartz.

It’s smart to request samples from multiple brands to compare color, texture, and overall look and feel. Many distributors will provide samples for free.

How Much Do Quartz Countertops Cost?

Expect to pay $75 to $150 per square foot for quality quartz countertops and professional installation. The final cost depends on:

Brand – Well-known brands charge more for excellent quality control and warranties.
Pattern complexity – Simple solid styles cost less than intricate stone-like patterns.
Edge details – Decorative edges like ogee and bullnose cost extra.
Thickness – The standard 3 cm runs cheaper than durable 3.5 cm options.
Installation – Complex projects with difficult angles, corners, or cutouts increase cost.
Local market – Prices fluctuate based on median home values and average incomes.

Higher-end quartz can run from $125 to $175 per square foot installed. Lower-priced DIY options from home stores fall between $40 and $70 per square foot without professional installation.

How to Measure for Quartz Countertops

Once you’ve explored the quartz options available, follow these steps to measure your existing countertop space accurately so you can place your order:

Gather Tools

You’ll need:

Measuring tape
Calculator
Marker or pencil
Paper for notes
Camera

Clean Countertops

Remove everything from countertops before measuring to ensure you capture precise dimensions. This includes small appliances as well.

Measure Length

Run the measuring tape along the length of each section of countertop from end to end, excluding overhangs. Note measurements.

Measure Width

Measure the width of each section of countertop from front to back, excluding overhangs again. Record numbers.

Calculate Square Footage

For each section, multiply the length by the width to obtain the square footage of that section.

Add up the total square footage of all sections. Make sure your final number accounts for spaces needed for sinks, stoves, islands, and other features.

Photograph Countertops

Take photos from multiple angles to analyze current configuration and condition later when ordering. Capture edges and backsplashes too.

Measure Overhangs

Note the dimensions of any overhangs beyond the cabinetry separately from the main countertop measurements. Overhangs are quoted separately.

Having detailed measurements ensures you receive an accurate quote. Keep your notes organized so you can easily provide the dimensions when requesting a quote.

How to Select an Installer

Choosing an experienced quartz fabricator and installer is just as important as picking the right slabs. Installation can account for up to half of your total project cost. An expert installer helps guarantee your satisfaction by:

Creating a flawless seamless look
Customizing pieces to fit your space perfectly
Polishing edges and drilling holes with precision
Preventing cracks, chips, or damage during installation

Tips for Choosing an Installer

Search for “quartz countertop installation” rather than just “countertop installation”. You want specialists.
Read online reviews on multiple sites like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau.
Ask to see examples of previous quartz installation projects. Evaluate the quality.
Request referrals from quartz suppliers and home remodeling contractors.
Verify necessary experience, licensing, insurance, and workers compensation.
Understand what services they provide. Do they fabricate in-house or partner with a fabricator?
Look for Countertop Installation Certification from the Marble Institute of America.
Ask lots of questions and trust your gut. A quality installer focuses on client needs.

Signs of a Quartz Specialist

The best quartz countertop installers:

Have 5+ years of specialized quartz installation experience.
Are certified in fabrication and installation methods.
Use innovative tools like laser templating.
Visit your home to field measure using 3D imaging.
Fabricate pieces locally to limit seams and precisely fit your space.
Follow manufacturer guidelines for installation.
Provide strong warranties on their work.

Take time to find the right installation pro. Verify they have expertise specifically with quartz before hiring.

How to Order Your Quartz Countertops

Once you’ve selected the perfect quartz colors, finishes, and patterns, follow these steps for a smooth ordering process:

Get an Itemized Written Quote

Provide your measurements, style selections, and budget to a supplier. Ask for a comprehensive quote in writing outlining:

Cost per square foot of materials, edges, backsplashes
Fabrication fees
Installation pricing
Tax, delivery, any other charges

Having an itemized quote allows you to accurately compare different bids.

Choose a Supplier

Select a reputable supplier that provides excellent customer service in addition to fair, competitive pricing. Ask about:

Their quartz brand partnerships – Do they carry your preferred brands?
Stock availability – How quickly can they order and take delivery of your slabs?
Fabrication timeline – How soon can they cut and polish your pieces?
Delivery procedures – Do they deliver to your home or the installer? Is there a fee?
Warranties – What defects or errors are covered under warranty?

Pay a Deposit

Expect to pay around 50% of the total project cost as a deposit when signing a contract. This reserves your slabs and locks in a fabrication slot.

The supplier will not order materials until you’ve provided a deposit.

Wait for Fabrication

It generally takes 3 to 4 weeks from the time you order until your countertops are cut, polished, and ready for install.

Complex projects with intricate edges or built-in features may take longer to fabricate.

Schedule Installation

Your installer will measure again once slabs are finished to create a template. Pick an install date about 1 week after expected fabrication completion.

Declutter your kitchen or bathroom several days before installation day so the space is clear for the install team.

Inspect and Enjoy!

When installation is complete, thoroughly inspect all areas for any flaws or deficiencies before making final payment. Check edges, seams, alignment with backsplash and walls, overhangs, and polish.

Load up your sparkling new quartz countertops with decor and enjoy for decades to come!

FAQs About Ordering Quartz Countertops

Still have questions about the process of ordering and installing quartz countertops? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

Is it cheaper to purchase quartz slabs directly?

In most cases, no. Suppliers get wholesale rates direct from manufacturers. Buying one or two slabs at retail rates ends up costing more.

Should I order extra quartz?

It’s smart to order 5-10% extra in case pieces crack or chip during fabrication or installation. Unused pieces can be returned.

How are seams handled in quartz countertops?

Seams are necessary for large counters. Your installer will make seams as unobtrusive as possible, spaced apart and following the countertop lines.

What if I need a sink or stove cutout?

Provide your accurate cutout measurements to the fabricator. They will cut spaces for sinks and appliances using waterjet or CNC cutters.

When do I make my final payment?

Never pay the balance until you’ve inspected the installed countertops and confirmed you are 100% satisfied with the end result.

Is installation of my old countertops included?

No, debris disposal and removal of old countertops are almost never included. Some installers offer this service for an additional fee.

How long is the warranty on quartz countertops?

Most major brands provide 10- or 15-year limited warranties on materials and craftsmanship. Installers may offer 1-year labor warranties.

Conclusion

With unlimited options for eye-catching patterns, durable finishes, and on-trend colors, quartz delivers the custom, low-maintenance countertops you’ve been dreaming about. By following this guide, you can successfully choose, order, and install beautiful quartz countertops with confidence.

Taking the time to hand-select your perfect slabs, find specialized installers, and measure properly ensures a stunning outcome. Investing in quartz countertops will enhance your home’s beauty while increasing functionality and value for years to come.