Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects in recent years. Known for their durability, low maintenance, and customizability, quartz counters offer homeowners an attractive and practical surface. But with most quartz being imported from overseas, many homeowners wonder – what quartz countertops are actually made in the USA?
A Brief Overview of Quartz Countertops
Before diving into the details of domestic quartz manufacturing, let’s look at what quartz countertops are and what makes them so popular:
- Composition – Quartz counters are engineered stone made from roughly 90% ground natural quartz crystals and 10% polymer resins and pigments. The resins bind the quartz particles together.
- Appearance – Available in a wide array of colors and patterns that mimic natural stone and concrete. The speckled look comes from the natural quartz particles.
- Durability – Quartz is one of the hardest minerals, making countertops extremely scratch, stain, and heat resistant. They don’t require regular sealing like natural stone.
- Maintenance – Low maintenance needs. Simple cleaning with soap and water keeps them looking like new.
- Customization – Quartz slabs can be fabricated into custom shapes and sizes for seamless integration.
Why Buy American-Made?
There are a few key reasons why homeowners may want to seek out quartz counters that are made in the USA:
- Quality – Choosing a domestic manufacturer often means better quality control and materials.
- Supporting Local Economies – Buying American keeps jobs and production on U.S. soil.
- Environmental Impact – Domestic production has a smaller carbon footprint than overseas manufacturing and shipping.
- Customer Service – American companies typically have better customer service and warranty support.
While imported quartz dominates the market, fortunately there are some excellent American-made options available.
Major U.S. Quartz Manufacturers
Several companies manufacture quartz slabs and fabrics locally in the United States:
Cambria
One of the largest domestic producers, Cambria operates a manufacturing facility in Minnesota. They offer a wide selection of designs in natural stone and concrete styles.
Cosentino
The Spanish company Cosentino has a U.S. manufacturing headquarters in Texas for their popular Silestone brand. Known for bold colors and patterns.
Pental Quartz
Headquartered in Seattle, Pental Quartz manufactures slabs in Washington state. They specialize in unique designs that mimic natural marble and granite.
Caesarstone
This leading quartz brand fabricates their slabs in California and ships them worldwide. Great color consistency and durability.
AmeriQuartz
Based in South Carolina, AmeriQuartz offers factory direct ordering of their slabs and countertops. More budget-friendly prices.
Virginia Quartz
Located in Virginia, this company custom makes slabs and counters for homes and businesses across the east coast.
IceStone
Brooklyn-based company that makes quartz surfaces from up to 100% recycled materials, specializing in striking concrete designs.
Polycor
Headquartered in Quebec, Polycor fabricates their natural looking quartz in Georgia and Tennessee for the U.S. market.
This is just a sampling of American-made quartz countertop brands available. Be sure to ask manufacturers where slabs are made.
Finding American-Made Quartz Countertops
Here are some tips for finding quartz counters made in the USA for your home:
- Ask fabricators & installers if they use domestic quartz materials. Many specialize in local sourcing.
- Search for manufacturers in your region. They will likely promote U.S. sourcing & production.
- Look for “Made in USA” callouts on brand websites and marketing materials. This indicates domestic manufacturing.
- Inquire with major hardware stores and kitchen design showrooms about American options.
- Check quartz color options. U.S. brands often have colors named after local cities and landmarks.
- Expect to pay 10-15% more for American-made vs. imported quartz countertops.
With the right research, you can find high quality, beautifully designed quartz countertops proudly made in the USA. Supporting domestic manufacturing is a great way to invest in local communities while getting a durable, stylish countertop.
Frequently Asked Questions About American Quartz Countertops
Is quartz healthier than granite?
Quartz is generally regarded as a healthier option than granite since it doesn’t require regular sealing that can use harsh chemicals. Quartz also resists bacteria growth better than natural stone.
What’s better about American quartz?
American quartz often meets higher standards of quality control and customer service. U.S. manufacturing also has a smaller environmental impact than imported products.
How can you tell if quartz is made in the USA?
Look for “Made in USA” or “Manufactured in America” callouts in product specs and marketing from brands. U.S. quartz often uses regionally inspired color names as well.
Does homemade quartz countertops exist?
While small DIY quartz workshops have popped up, manufacturing quartz requires immense heat and pressure. Homemade fabrications won’t deliver the same performance and consistency as factory engineered quartz.
Is quartz cheaper than granite?
Quartz and granite are similarly priced, on average. But quartz requires less maintenance over its lifespan, making it more cost effective long-term. Due to higher production costs, American-made quartz tends to be 10-15% pricier than imported.
Conclusion
With its unparalleled durability and customizability, quartz remains a top choice for kitchen and bath surfaces. Homeowners wanting to support domestic manufacturing do have high quality, stylish options from a number of American companies producing slabs in the U.S. With some savvy sourcing techniques, you can find quartz counters made in America that offer exceptional performance, striking good looks, and craftsmanship.