Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom renovations due to their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance. With so many quartz brands and styles to choose from, it can be challenging to determine which quartz countertops are truly the best. This comprehensive guide will examine the top quartz countertop options to help you make an informed decision when selecting the best quartz surface for your next project.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with polymer resins and pigments. The quartz provides strength and hardness, while the resins bind the material together. Many quartz slabs also incorporate recycled materials like glass, stone, and mirrors for added durability and unique visual effects.
Compared to natural stone countertops like granite and marble, quartz offers superior resistance to stains, scratches, heat, and water. The resins make quartz non-porous, so it does not require regular sealing. Quartz also lacks the veins and pits found in natural stone, giving it a more uniform appearance. With proper care, quartz countertops can last for many years, making them a smart long-term investment.
Benefits of Quartz Countertops
There are many reasons why quartz has surpassed granite as the most popular countertop material:
- Durability – Quartz is extremely strong and scratch-resistant. It can withstand heavy impact and stand up to heavy usage in busy kitchens.
- Low Maintenance – Requiring very little maintenance, quartz resists stains, etching, and heat better than natural stone. Simple cleaning with soap and water keeps quartz looking like new.
- Hygienic – The non-porous surface inhibits bacterial growth and makes quartz countertops ADA compliant.
- Stylish Appearance – Available in a wide array of colors and patterns, from natural stone looks to vivid solid colors and bold designs. The uniform patterns are eye-catching.
- Versatility – Quartz can be fabricated into countertops, backsplashes, flooring, walls, and other surfaces. It works well in kitchens, bathrooms, laundries, and commercial spaces.
- Non-Toxic – Quartz lacks the radon gas sometimes found in natural stone and is VOC-free. It is kid and pet friendly.
With this winning combination of form and function, it’s no wonder that quartz countertops continue to increase in popularity year after year.
How Quartz Countertops Are Made
The manufacturing process of quartz slabs gives them consistent coloring and patterning all the way through the material. Here is a quick overview:
- Step 1 – Natural quartz is mined and then crushed into a fine powder. This accounts for approximately 90% of a slab by volume.
- Step 2 – Pigments are added to achieve the desired colors and visual effects. Only high quality iron oxide pigments are used to ensure color stability.
- Step 3 – Chemical polymer resins are mixed in to create flexibility, adhesion, and stiffness. These account for about 10% of the material.
- Step 4 – The mixture is compacted under pressure in a vacuum to remove any air pockets, then molded into slabs.
- Step 5 – The slabs are cured in ovens and polished into the finished product. Many slabs incorporate decorative particulates like semi-precious stones, glass, shells, or other custom elements.
- Step 6 – The slabs are ready for shipment to fabricators for custom cutting and installation.
This precise manufacturing process allows quartz slabs to be created with zero porosity and consistent, dependable performance.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Quartz
With so many options on the market, it is important to keep the following factors in mind when selecting a quartz countertop:
Color and Pattern
- Natural stone finishes (marble, granite) or solid colors (whites, grays, blacks)
- Bold patterns (veining, aggregates, swirls) or uniform speckled particles
- Different pigments have better heat resistance (lighter colors more prone to scorching)
Price
- Good quality quartz starts around $40/sq ft installed but ranges up to $100+/sq ft
- Price determined by brand, color/pattern, thickness, and edge treatments
Warranty
- Top brands offer 15-year or lifetime limited warranties
- Warranties cover manufacturing defects but not improper installation or care
Maintenance
- Simple cleaning with soap, water, and gentle scrubbing
- Avoid abrasive cleaners and chemicals that can etch surface
- Re-sealing never required
Fabrication
- Look for experienced quartz fabricators and installers
- Seams should be tight and even, corners and edges clean
- Negative reviews of sloppy seam work, cracking, or dull areas
Brand Reputation
- Established quartz brands have years of product testing and quality assurance
- Customer reviews highlight positives and negatives of each brand
- Beware very cheap quartz slabs with no brand recognition
Once you determine your budget, desired color/style, and brand preferences, you can narrow down the many quartz options to find your perfect countertop. Examining quartz slabs in person before purchase is highly recommended.
The Top 8 Quartz Countertop Brands
Based on product range, quality, durability, warranties, and overall customer satisfaction, these are among the top quartz countertop brands on the market today:
1. Cambria Quartz
- Brand of Cambria Company, based in Minnesota
- Founded in 2000, exclusively makes quartz surfaces
- Fragmented designs inspired by natural stone
- Lifetime limited warranty, low rate of complaints
- Price range $65 – $100 per sq ft installed
Pros
- Over 140 unique designs and colors
- Innovative manufacturing techniques
- Minimal restrictions on seam placement
- Quantum guard technology for stain resistance
- Striking designs like Brittanicca, Ella, and Ravina
Cons
- Limited size options, may require seams
- Occasional complaints about dull spots
- Rare reports of cracking near sinks
With elegant marble-look palettes and quality performance, Cambria remains the gold standard of quartz countertops.
2. Caesarstone
- Leading international quartz manufacturer, founded in 1987
- Headquarters in Israel, distribution in over 50 countries
- Natural stone and concrete looks popular
- Offers 15 year limited warranty
Pros
- Over 120 design options including unique finishes like metallic and fabric
- Premium Slab Sales Network of distributors
- Excellent customer service reputation
- Hardest and most scratch resistant quartz surface
- Popular designs: Piatra Grey, Symphony Grey, White Attica
Cons
- Occasional complaints of cracked corners or chipping along edges
- Minimal recycled content compared to some brands
- Rare reports of a white film forming on surface
With innovative style and sturdy craftsmanship, Caesarstone remains a beloved quartz option.
3. Silestone
- Produced by Spanish company Cosentino
- Introduced first quartz surfaces in 1990
- Known for vivid solid colors and mirror-like finishes
- Offers standard 10 year warranty
Pros
- Over 90 colors and textures available, many bold and vivid
- Anti-bacterial Microban technology
- Specialty lines ECO Line and Loft include recycled content
- Highly scratch resistant and durable in kitchens
- Distinctive styles like Calacatta Gold, Blanco Zeus Extreme, Marengo
Cons
- Complaints about dull spots on some darker colors
- Occasional cracking around cut-outs and high use areas
- Stain resistance not as strong as other brands
Vibrant colors and unique designs make Silestone a stunning quartz option.
4. Viatera
- Produced by LG Hausys, subsidiary of LG Corporation
- Unique manufacturing process preserves stone’s natural beauty
- Known for realism in replicating natural marble
- Offers 15 year limited warranty
Pros
- Over 200 patterns reminiscent of actual marble and granite
- Contains up to 72% natural quartz for depth and radiance
- Hygienic, stain, scratch and heat resistant
- Creative designs like Carrara Bianco, Super White, and Volga Blue
Cons
- Limited size availability, seams more common
- Not as many vivid solid color options
- Occasional complaints of dull spots and pits
With unmatched realism and high natural quartz content, Viatera truly mimics luxurious marble.
5. DuPont Zodiaq®
- Produced by renowned DuPont company, inventor of Corian®
- Zodiaq introduced in 2000 as first quartz surface
- Known for timeless, subtle patterns
- Offers limited 15 year warranty
Pros
- Over 50 versatile color options
- Highly scratch, chip, and heat resistant
- Less prone to damage from direct sunlight
- Safe and sanitary, meets health standards
- Popular styles: Glacier White, Carrara, Berwyn
Cons
- Limited exotic patterns or vivid solids
- Occasional seam separation issues
- Complaints of dull spots on darker finishes
With its strong performance pedigree, Zodiaq pioneered today’s quartz surfacing trend.
6. Samsung Radianz®
- Produced by Samsung Electronics, available since 2006
- Formula incorporates up to 65% quartz crystalline powder
- Known for high-end stylish designs and colors
- Offers industry standard 10 year limited warranty
Pros
- Over 70% natural granite, glass, and quartz fragments
- Radianz Glass Collection with vivid style and shine
- Airy Concrete and Luna Pearl finishes on-trend
- Stain, scratch, and heat resistant
- Popular colors: Atmosphere, Leathered White, Noble Grey
Cons
- Limited exotic stone look options
- Occasional complaints about dull areas
- Cracking complaints near sinks and high use areas
Samsung Radianz brings elegance and sophistication to cutting-edge quartz surfaces.
7. Silestone
- Produced in Spain by Cosentino since 1990
- Known for vibrant solid colors and glossy look
- Incorporates recycled glass, mirrors, and stone
- Offers standard 10 year limited warranty
Pros
- Over 90 striking colors and unique textures
- Exclusive HybriQ+ technology with Bio-Protection
- Constantly innovating with trending styles
- Excellent scratch, stain, and bacteria resistance
- Popular options: Snowy Ibiza, Iconic White, Kensho
Cons
- Complaints about seam separation
- Can etch with strong chemicals
- Limited natural stone pattern options
With its luminescent colors and hygienic properties, Silestone brings a unique glow to any space.
8. Hanstone Quartz
- Produced by Hanwha L&C since 2003
- Company based in South Korea
- Known for nature-inspired patterns
- Offers standard 10 year limited warranty
Pros
- Over 50 colors emulate natural stone and concrete
- 100% natural quartz for high durability and sheen
- Resists scratching, staining, and water damage
- Complies with green building standards
- Popular options: Blizzard, Lilac Gray, Ancient Olive
Cons
- Prone to damage from direct sunlight
- Occasional seam separation issues
- Smaller size slabs may require seaming
Bringing nature indoors, Hanstone Quartz offers eco-friendly durability and style.
How to Choose the Best Quartz for Your Project
When selecting a quartz slab, following this step-by-step process can help you make the optimal choice:
- Step 1: Determine your budget and decide what you can afford to spend on quartz countertops and installation. Prices range widely from value brands to luxury options.
- Step 2: Decide on the look you want. Browse quartz designs online or in person to choose your preferred color, pattern, and finish. Natural stone patterns? Bold aggregates? Solid colors? Matte or polished? Viewing slabs allows you to see variations and colors accurately.
- Step 3: Research top quartz brands online and read reviews about quality, durability, warranties, and value. Consult reviews to see actual customer experiences.
- Step 4: Check the warranty coverage offered by the brand you are considering. Look for at least 10 years of coverage.
- Step 5: Visit a slab warehouse or supplier showroom to view your preferred quartz brand, color, and pattern in person. Examine the overall look, texture, and workmanship.
- Step 6: Ask about heat and stain resistance specific to the color you want. Some light and bright colors are more prone to scorching or staining.
- Step 7: Inquire about thickness options. Thicker 3 cm slabs offer more durability and seamless appearance.
- Step 8: Look at edge profiles to choose your preferred finished edge such as eased, beveled, or waterfall. This affects the final installed appearance and cost.
- Step 9: Ask about installation costs. Quoted total price per square foot should include materials, fabrication, delivery, and professional installation.
By carefully weighing these factors, you can select your perfect quartz countertop with confidence!
FAQs
Is quartz healthier than granite?
Yes, quartz offers some health advantages over granite. Being non-porous, quartz resists bacteria growth and does not need periodic sealing. Quartz lacks the radon gas emissions sometimes found in granite. Quartz is ideal for hygienic spaces like kitchens.
Does quartz stain easily?
No, quartz is highly stain resistant and requires only basic care to keep it looking pristine. However, some quartz varieties with more porous pigments can be prone to staining from oils, dyes, or certain foods. Overall, quartz offers excellent stain resistance.
Is quartz damage resistant?
Quartz is one of the most durable countertop materials. It stands up to heavy usage without chipping, cracking, or scratching under normal conditions. However, excessive impact, force, or pressure can potentially damage quartz. Avoiding standing or sitting on a quartz countertop reduces stress.
Does quartz need to be sealed?
No, quartz does not require sealing. The polymer resins make quartz non-porous so liquids do not penetrate the surface. This eliminates the need for periodic sealing required by natural stone counters. For basic cleaning, soap and water is all that is needed.
Does quartz get hot?
Quartz performs well with exposure to normal hot cookware. But prolonged direct contact with extremely hot pans, or sudden temperature changes can potentially cause thermal shock, resulting in cracks or discoloration. Using trivets is recommended to prevent thermal shock.
Conclusion
With its superior durability, easy-care maintenance, and custom styling, quartz makes an exceptional choice for countertops. Whichever brand you select, proper fabrication and installation is key to minimizing seams and maximizing performance. Be sure to use experienced professionals. With hundreds of color variations and patterns available, you can find the perfect quartz countertop to suit your space and style. A quartz surface will maintain its refined beauty for many years when properly cared for. Investing in a quartz countertop is sure to increase the value of your home while providing lasting enjoyment.