Quartz countertops have become incredibly popular in recent years as a stylish, durable, and low-maintenance alternative to natural stone and other materials. With many brands on the market, it can be difficult to determine what company truly makes the highest quality quartz countertops. This article will examine the top quartz countertop manufacturers and help you decide what company makes the best quartz countertops based on factors like durability, appearance, price, and warranty.
Overview of Quartz Countertops
Before diving into the specific brands, let’s briefly overview what quartz countertops are and their key benefits compared to other countertop materials:
What Are Quartz Countertops?
Quartz countertops, also known as engineered stone countertops, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with polymer resins and pigments. The mixture is molded into slabs and hardened under intense vibration and pressure.
Benefits of Quartz Countertops
- Durability – Quartz is extremely hard and scratch-resistant. It stands up well to heavy daily use.
- Low Maintenance – Quartz resists stains and requires very little maintenance compared to natural stone. Simple wiping with a damp cloth easily keeps it clean.
- Appearance – Quartz comes in a wide array of colors and patterns that mimic the look of natural stone, concrete, wood, and more. The uniform patterning gives it a stylish look.
- Non-Porous – Unlike granite and marble, quartz does not need to be regularly sealed as it won’t harbor bacteria or stains.
- Heat Resistance – Quartz holds up well against heat, making it a good choice for kitchens.
With those key benefits covered, let’s now dive into the top companies that manufacture quartz countertops.
Caesarstone
Caesarstone is an Israeli company that pioneered quartz surfaces and remains one of the most recognized and respected brands. Their countertops are known for their durability, aesthetic quality, and range of unique patterns.
Pros
- Highly scratch and stain resistant
- Offers a lifetime warranty
- Over 50 color and pattern options including natural stone looks
- Has patterns like woodgrain that other brands don’t offer
- Pre-molded sinks available
Cons
- On the higher end of price range
- Limited number of distributors compared to some brands
Caesarstone has patented technology that provides excellent resistance to damage over time. Their quartz contains up to 93% crushed quartz aggregates combined with resins and pigments. Many interior designers prefer Caesarstone for its reputation and quality.
Silestone
Silestone is a popular Spanish brand from Cosentino that has been making quartz surfaces since 1990. They offer a diverse collection of unique patterns.
Pros
- Contains HybriQ+ technology to resist stains, scratches, and impacts
- Offers a 25 year residential warranty
- Over 90 striking patterns and colors available
- High percentage of recycled content (minimum 20%)
Cons
- Higher price point than some competitors
- Small number of woodgrain pattern options
Silestone uses vibrocompression technology to create dense non-porous slabs that stand the test of time. Their quartz countertops come with built-in antimicrobial protection.
Cambria
Based in Minnesota, Cambria is a leading American owned and operated quartz manufacturer. They have a wide array of natural looking designs.
Pros
- Made in the USA
- Offers a lifetime limited warranty
- Over 120 designer colors and finishes
- Has an extensive collection of woodgrain patterns
- Minimal repeats for unique look
Cons
- Pricing is on the high-end
- Limited distributors and showrooms
Cambria’s quartz surfaces are non-porous with up to 93% natural quartz. Their countertops feature designs created by expert artists that mimic natural materials. They have a high percentage of recycled content.
MSI
MSI is a Wisconsin-based company that has been making quartz, porcelain, and other engineered stone products for over 40 years. Their Q Premium Natural Quartz comes in attractive styles at affordable price points.
Pros
- Budget-friendly pricing
- 25-year residential warranty
- High variety of granite, marble, and concrete looks
- Minimal repeating patterns
Cons
- Smaller color selection than other brands
- Fewer dealers than some competitors
Using Bretonstone technology, MSI creates stain, scratch and heat resistant slabs. Their Eco Quartz contains up to 75% recycled content in an array of nature-inspired styles.
Quartz Master
Quartz Master is a Quartz countertop brand that originated in southern California in 2003. They focus on excellent value at reasonable prices.
Pros
- Most affordable brand option
- 15 year limited warranty
- Over 60 color options including wood, marble, and concrete designs
- Minimal repeat patterns
Cons
- Smaller distributor network than bigger brands
- Not many unique or exotic styles
Quartz Master uses the Bretonstone system to make durable, low-maintenance countertops. They have a wide selection of popular colors and styles. Their quartz surfaces are Greenguard Gold Certified.
Others Worth Considering
Some other reputable quartz countertop brands worth considering include:
- LG Viatera – Offers metallics and unique stone mosaics. 25-year warranty.
- Hanstone – Canadian brand with nature-inspired collection. Lifetime limited warranty.
- Quartzforms – Virginia-based company with high performance quartz.
- Vicostone – Vietnam-based company with budget-friendly pricing.
What Company Makes the Best Quartz Countertops?
So what company ultimately makes the best quartz countertops? While quality of manufacturing is generally quite high across leading brands, Caesarstone stands out as the original innovator and remains an industry leader. Their dedication to combining durability, beauty, and craftsmanship places them among the elite.
However, Silestone, Cambria, and other top brands also make exceptional quartz countertops using the latest technology. Much comes down to your preferred aesthetic style and budget. For a blend of value and performance, MSI and Quartz Master offer quality at more affordable price points.
Be sure to carefully evaluate warranties, reviews, design collections, and prices to choose the right quartz countertop company for your needs. And utilize an authorized local dealer that provides professional installation. With the right quartz countertops, you can enjoy lasting beauty and functionality for many years.
What to Look for When Choosing Quartz Countertops
Beyond the specific manufacturer, there are several key factors to consider when selecting quartz countertops for your kitchen or bathroom. Keep the following in mind:
Appearance
The aesthetic style you prefer will be a top priority. Visit showrooms to view slabs in-person and get samples. Quartz comes in an endless array of colors and patterns to suit any design tastes.
Durability
Look for quartz with high concentrations of natural quartz aggregates for maximum strength and hardness. Denser slabs tend to resist scratches and damage better long-term.
Warranty
Opt for brands that offer at least 10+ year warranties. Many provide lifetime limited warranties covering manufacturer defects. This protects your investment.
Price
Quartz is generally $50-100 per square foot installed. Higher end brands cost more than value options but have enhanced aesthetics and durability.
Maintenance
Quartz requires very little maintenance. Ensure any quartz you choose is non-porous and stain resistant. Avoid brands that need frequent sealing.
Certifications
Look for certifications like Greenguard to confirm low VOC emissions. Made in America quartz supports domestic jobs.
Benefits of Quartz Countertops in Kitchens
Quartz has grown into one of the most popular countertop materials for kitchens. Here are some of the top benefits of using quartz countertops in kitchens:
Durability for Busy Kitchens
Kitchen countertops see heavy daily use. Quartz’s extreme hardness and scratch resistance allow it to hold up exceptionally well over years of use without showing wear and tear. The dense non-porous surface resists stains from wine, oil, and other kitchen substances.
Low Maintenance
Home chefs don’t want to waste time constantly cleaning countertops by hand. Unlike marble or granite, quartz needs little more than a quick wipe with a damp cloth for daily maintenance. It doesn’t require regular sealing either. This keeps kitchen countertops looking like new with minimal effort.
Heat Resistance
Quartz holds up to heat better than many competing materials. While you should always use trivets for extremely hot pots and pans, quartz provides peace of mind for typical cooking tasks like rolling dough and setting down heated dishes.
Stylish, Consistent Appearance
Natural stone has variations in patterning while quartz offers uniform designs. The consistent look gives kitchens a clean and stylish appearance. Quartz comes in designs like marble, woodgrain, and concrete that elevate any kitchen’s aesthetics.
Non-Porous & Hygienic
Unlike porous natural stone, quartz does not allow bacteria to penetrate its surface. This makes it very hygienic for food prep areas.
Array of Colors
Quartz allows homeowners to add a bright pop of color or opt for a classic white or black countertop. The diversity of shades and patterns quartz offers gives homeowners incredible design flexibility.
Cost Comparison of Quartz vs. Other Countertop Materials
Quartz countertops are loved for their durability and visual appeal, but how does their cost compare to popular alternatives? Here is an overview:
- Granite – Natural granite is generally cheaper upfront than quartz at $40-100 per square foot installed. However, granite requires periodic sealing which adds long-term maintenance costs.
- Marble – Marble is priced similarly to granite at $40-100 per square foot installed. It stains easily though requiring greater maintenance over time.
- Laminate – Laminate only costs $20-50 per square foot installed but shows wear after a few years. Durability is low compared to quartz and solid surface materials.
- Solid Surface – Materials like Corian cost $55-75 per square foot installed. While resistant to damage, seams are more visible than quartz.
- Concrete – Poured concrete runs $50-115 per square foot. The industrial look isn’t for everyone and concrete can develop cracks over time.
- Soapstone – Soapstone costs $70-100 per square foot installed. It requires weekly sealing and is prone to etching from acids.
- Quartz – At $50-100 per square foot installed, quartz rests in the middle price-wise but offers outstanding durability and maintenance benefits. Higher quality quartz costs more but lasts for decades.
While not the cheapest option, quartz delivers excellent long-term value. When you factor in durability and low maintenance requirements, quartz becomes very competitive cost-wise with other popular kitchen countertop materials.
Pros and Cons of Quartz Countertops
Quartz offers many benefits but also has some downsides to consider. The main pros and cons include:
Pros
- Extremely durable and scratch resistant
- Stain, scorch, and etch resistant
- Easy to keep clean and maintain
- Consistent patterning and colors
- Resists damage from moisture and mildew
- Heat resistant
- Non-porous – does not harbor bacteria
- Abundant color and finish options
- Long manufacturer warranties
Cons
- More expensive upfront cost than laminate or tile
- Can chip if subject to excessive impact
- Limited number of dramatic patterns
- Some brands prone to spotting with oil or grease stains
- Needs periodic resealing of seams
- Not as glossy as granite; more matte finish
Overall, the numerous benefits of durability, aesthetics, and easy care make quartz worth the investment for most homeowners. But weigh the pros and cons carefully for your specific situation.
Trends in Quartz Countertops
As quartz countertops grow in popularity, manufacturers continually release fresh new styles and innovations. Here are some top trends:
Unique Patterns
While white and gray quartz is popular, unique patterns like marble, wood, and concrete inspired looks gain traction. There are also more non-traditional color options like blue and green.
Bold Veining
Some of the latest quartz collections feature bold, dramatic veining for a striking natural stone appearance. These generate visual interest.
Metallic Finishes
Subtle metallic flecks give some modern quartz countertops an eye-catching shimmer. These suit contemporary kitchens.
Mosaic Designs
Mosaic or fragmented styles that incorporate multiple colors and textures in one slab offer a customizable, artistic look.
Extra Large Slabs
Manufacturers can now produce enormous quartz slabs reaching 159” long to minimize seams in large kitchens. These generate a seamless appearance.
Recycled Content
Eco-friendly quartz containing a high percentage of recycled glass and mineral materials appeal to sustainability-minded homeowners.
Should You Choose Quartz or Granite Countertops?
Two of the most popular countertop materials are quartz and granite. But should you choose quartz or granite? Here is a comparison of some key factors:
- Appearance – Granite offers a classic elegance. Quartz provides modern style with consistent, unique patterns. Granite has more dramatic veining.
- Durability – Quartz is harder than granite and resists scratches, stains, and burns better long-term. But granite remains very durable.
- Maintenance – Quartz only needs occasional cleaning with soap and water. Granite requires periodic sealing to prevent stains.
- Heat Tolerance – Quartz holds up to typical heat exposure better than natural stone. But granite can also handle hot pots well with trivets.
- Prices – Materials cost for granite is generally a bit less expensive than quartz. But installed costs end up similar.
- Colors – Quartz comes in endless colors. Granite has more limited natural shades. But dyes can create some granite colors.
For most homeowners, quartz makes an excellent choice due to its outstanding durability, maintenance, and style. But granite remains a classic option. Consider your own priorities around aesthetics, budget, and usage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions homeowners have about quartz countertops:
Is Quartz More Expensive Than Granite?
In terms of material costs, granite slabs tend to be cheaper than quartz. But after professional fabrication and installation, total costs for granite and quartz end up very similar, in the range of $50 to $100 per square foot.
Is Quartz Bad For The Environment?
Some eco-conscious homeowners worry about quartz containing polymer resins. However, many leading brands now incorporate high percentages of recycled glass and minerals. Look for Greenguard Certification for low emissions. Quartz is not inherently bad for the environment.
Is Quartz Heat Resistant?
Quartz has good heat resistance compared to other natural stones, but prolonged exposure to extreme heat from pans can damage the resin binding. Using trivets is recommended. Quartz performs well for typical tasks like briefly setting down hot dishes.
Does Quartz Stain Easily?
Quality quartz is highly resistant to stains. Its non-porous material and polymer resins create an impervious surface that keeps most spills from penetrating. But oil can stain if not promptly cleaned. Overall, quartz rarely stains with proper care.
How Thick Should Quartz Countertops Be?
A thickness of 2 centimeters (about 3/4”) is the minimum recommended for quartz countertops. 3 cm thickness provides enhanced durability and strength. But 2 cm remains sturdy for most residential uses. Edge thickness should be at least 1.2 cm.
Does Quartz Need To Be Sealed?
Unlike granite, quartz does not require periodic sealing. Its non-porous surface resists moisture penetration. But sealing the seams between quartz countertop slabs is recommended every 1-2 years to prevent moisture ingress there.
Is Quartz More Durable Than Granite?
Quartz rates 7-9 out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale while granite rates 6-8, making quartz the harder and more scratch resistant material. Both stand up well to heavy use but quartz maintains its smooth polish better long-term.
Can You Repair Damage to Quartz Countertops?
Minor damage like superficial scratches can be buffed out by a professional. But deep scratches and chips in quartz are usually permanent. One benefit of quartz patterns is isolated damage blends in better than with natural stone. Protect quartz from significant impacts.
Conclusion
When chosen with care and properly installed, quartz countertops offer unparalleled durability paired with style. Leading brands like Caesarstone and Silestone make exceptional products using advanced manufacturing processes. Consider important factors like warranty terms, pricing, and aesthetics when selecting quartz countertops for your home. With routine care, quartz countertops will maintain their good looks for decades to come.