Philadelphia is a great city for finding high-quality quartz countertops for your home renovation or new construction project. With many options for top brands, custom fabrication, and professional installation, quartz makes an excellent choice for kitchens and bathrooms in Philly homes. This guide will highlight the best places to shop for quartz countertops in Philadelphia.
What is Quartz?
Before discussing where to buy quartz in Philadelphia, it helps to understand what quartz countertops are. Quartz countertops are engineered stone surfaces made from crushed quartz particles combined with resin and other materials. The result is a durable, stylish, and low-maintenance alternative to natural stone.
Some key features of quartz countertops:
- Extremely durable and scratch-resistant
- Requires little maintenance
- Resists stains, mold, and bacteria growth
- Available in wide range of colors and patterns
- Non-porous so liquids don’t penetrate
- Seamless appearance of natural stone
- Heat and impact resistant
With the look and feel of natural stone but more versatility and less hassle, quartz has become a go-to countertop choice for many Philadelphia homeowners.
Where to Shop for Quartz Countertops
There are two main options for purchasing quartz countertops in Philadelphia:
Big Box Stores
For convenience and affordability, big box home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s carry many popular national quartz brands. You can view slab samples in-store and order full slabs for custom countertops. While selection is more limited than a stone yard, big box stores offer a more DIY-friendly shopping experience.
Stone Yards
For the widest selection of quartz brands, colors, and patterns available in Philadelphia, visit one of the area’s stone yards and countertop suppliers. These businesses have extensive slab inventories, so you’re likely to find the perfect quartz material for your home. Most provide in-house design and fabrication as well.
Some of the top stone yards and countertop suppliers in Philadelphia include:
- Suburban Granite
- Dial One Granite & Marble
- Pyramid Marble & Granite
- Precision Stone Design
- Metropolitan Marble & Granite
- Granite Reef
Be sure to visit more than one stone yard to view all the quartz lines and colors available. Many also have virtual catalogs online so you can get a feel for their inventory.
Key Factors When Choosing Quartz
When shopping for quartz in Philadelphia, keep the following factors in mind:
Brand – Stick with top quartz brands like Caesarstone, Cambria, Silestone and DuPont Zodiaq for the best quality.
Color/Pattern – Browse the widest possible selection to find a hue and design that fits your style. Neutrals like white and gray are popular, but bold colors and patterns are options too.
Thickness – Standard is 1 1/4″ to 1 1/2″ thick for residential counters. Go thicker for a more substantial feel.
Fabrication & Installation – Choose a skilled local fabricator, especially for seamed edges and custom details. Professional installation is also advised.
Budget – Expect to spend $75 – $100 per square foot for quartz countertops installed. More complex projects cost more.
Maintenance – Quartz is nearly maintenance-free. Simple cleaning with soap and water keeps it looking like new. Resealing is not required.
FAQs About Purchasing Quartz in Philadelphia
Where can I view quartz slabs in person?
The best places to view full quartz slabs in Philadelphia are stone yards like Suburban Granite, Precision Stone Design, Granite Reef, and Metropolitan Marble & Granite. Big box stores also display smaller samples.
What thickness should I choose?
1 1/4″ to 1 1/2″ is standard for residential quartz countertops. Go 2″ thick for a more substantial feel, but keep in mind it adds cost.
What does quartz cost compared to granite or marble?
Quartz costs $75-$100 per square foot installed on average. It’s less expensive than marble but pricier than granite. However, lower maintenance needs make it cost-effective long-term.
Can quartz be used for backsplashes?
Absolutely. Many homeowners opt for matching quartz backsplashes for a streamlined, contemporary look. Quartz backsplashes are easy to keep clean.
How is quartz different from solid surface (Corian)?
Quartz is much harder and more durable than solid surface. It also has a more natural, stone-like appearance while solid surface is a completely manufactured material.
Final Thoughts on Finding the Best Quartz in Philadelphia
With the right combination of quality, selection, price, and service, Philadelphia has great options when shopping for quartz. Spending time viewing slabs in person, asking about fabrication, and comparing brands and prices allows you to find the perfect quartz for your next countertop project. Use this guide to explore the top places to buy quartz in Philly from stone yards, fabricators, and big box stores.