Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects in Scarborough, Maine due to their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance. When looking for the best places to buy quartz countertops in Scarborough, there are several top options to consider.
How to Choose the Best Quartz Countertop Company in Scarborough
Choosing the right quartz countertop provider is key to ensuring you get high-quality materials and professional installation services. Here are some tips on what to look for when selecting a quartz countertop company in Scarborough:
Reputation and Experience
Look for an established company with a strong reputation built over many years of serving Scarborough and surrounding areas. They should have extensive experience fabricating and installing quartz countertops. Review their online reviews and testimonials.
Range of Quartz Brands and Colors
The top quartz companies will work with the leading quartz manufacturers like Cambria, Caesarstone, Silestone, and Viatera. This gives you a wide selection of colors, patterns, and styles to choose from for your project.
Quality Fabrication and Installation
Make sure they use state-of-the-art equipment to precisely cut and fabricate your slabs. Ask about their installation techniques – do they employ best practices for seam placement and securing countertops properly?
Customer Service
From the initial consult to project completion, the company should provide exceptional customer service. They should listen to your needs, provide design ideas, and communicate every step of the process.
Competitive Pricing
Quality quartz countertops installed by professionals will be a significant investment. Compare quotes from a few highly-rated companies. Beware of prices that seem too good to be true.
Warranties
Reputable quartz companies will stand behind their work with warranties. Look for at least 10 years on materials and a separate warranty on fabrication and installation.
Top Places to Buy Quartz Countertops in Scarborough
After comparing reviews, selections, and service, here are my top recommendations on where to buy quartz countertops in Scarborough:
1. Coastal Kitchen & Bath
With an impressive showroom in Scarborough, Coastal Kitchen & Bath offers the widest selection of premium quartz brands including Silestone, Caesarstone, Cambria, and Viatera. Their in-house fabrication facility adheres to the highest standards and precision. Experienced installers ensure a perfect fit. Coastal Kitchen & Bath has an excellent reputation and provides top-notch customer service.
2. Kitchen & Countertop Center of Maine
Located in Scarborough, Kitchen & Countertop Center of Maine is family-owned and has served the area since 2002. They are an authorized distributor for brands like LG Viatera and Quarella quartz. Their experienced team handles measurement, fabrication, templating, edging, and install. Competitive pricing and great service make them a solid choice.
3. Stone Concepts Quartz
Operating in Scarborough since 2009, Stone Concepts Quartz fabricates and installs a wide selection of quartz, natural stone, and recycled glass counters. They are authorized dealers of Silestone and use state-of-the-art equipment for precision cutting. Stone Concepts stands behind their workmanship with strong warranties.
4. DreamKitchens50
With an impressive showroom in nearby Saco, DreamKitchens50 offers quartz countertops from Cambria, Viatera, Caesarstone, Silestone, and others. Design experts help select the perfect color and style. They handle full-service fabrication and installation. DreamKitchens50 has been operating in Maine for over 15 years.
5. Distinctive Countertops
Located in Gorham, Distinctive Countertops serves Scarborough and surrounding communities. They are an authorized Cambria dealer providing a wide array of stylish quartz designs. With precision cutting methods and skilled installers, Distinctive Countertops delivers high-quality results and responsive customer service.
What to Look for When Selecting Quartz Slabs
Once you choose a reputable quartz company in Scarborough, the next step is selecting the specific materials for your project. Here are some factors to consider when picking out quartz slabs:
Color
Quartz comes in a vast array of colors from white and cream to grays, tan, browns, and vivid tones. Visit showrooms to view slabs in person and narrow down your preferred hue. Neutrals like white and gray are popular choices that fit any style.
Pattern
Many quartz slabs incorporate unique veins, speckles, swirls, and other aggregate designs that add visual interest. Decide if you want a solid color or distinctive patterns. Some quartz has larger fragments for a more dramatic look.
Finish
Quartz can have a polished, matte, or textured finish. A polished finish provides maximum shine and reflectivity. Matte is smoother and less shiny. Textured quartz can create interesting effects depending on lighting.
Thickness
Standard quartz thickness is 3/4″ but thicker 1 1/4″ slabs provide a more substantial feel and can increase durability. Thicker quartz is better for heavily used sections like kitchen islands.
Grade
Higher grades with minimal imperfections often cost more. Smaller marks and irregularities in lower grades are typically fine for most applications but inspect slabs closely before final selection.
Popular Quartz Brands Available in Scarborough
Scarborough countertop providers have access to quartz from the top brands worldwide. Here’s an overview of some of the most popular quartz lines available from local fabricators:
Cambria Quartz
Made in the USA, Cambria has a wide array of stylish designs from neutrals to bold colors. They are known for quality and durability. Top choices include:
- Brittanicca – Speckled neutral with earthy vibe
- Ella – Solid creamy white, versatile classic
- Berwyn – Crisp clean gray with subtle white veining
- Summerhill – Warm beige tone with brown and taupe veins
Caesarstone Quartz
One of the first engineered quartz brands, Caesarstone is known for innovation and durability. Long-lasting finishes resist scratches. Consider:
- Piatra Grey – Neutral grey with faint white veining
- Rugged Concrete – Industrial style, matte finish
- Clamshell – Dramatic large sea-glass fragments
- Cosmopolitan White – Bright pure white
Silestone Quartz
With high-performance technology, Silestone offers unique textures and durability. Top picks include:
- Snowy Ibiza – Crisp white with gray & black speckles
- Marengo – Dark charcoal solid color
- Calacatta Gold – Luxurious white with gold veins
- Eternal Marquina – Sophisticated black quartz
LG Viatera Quartz
Known for high-quality and vibrant colors, Viatera is an emerging leader in quartz. Top selections:
- Super White – Brilliant crisp, clean white
- Cirrus White – Soft warm white tone
- Matte Storm – Rich gray in a textured matte finish
- Reef – Vivid blue-green with a polished finish
Factors That Impact the Cost of Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops offer beauty and durability at a range of price points. What affects the total investment? Key factors include:
Type of Quartz
The brand, grade, pattern, and rarity impact costs. Exotic imported varieties or premium name brands cost more than domestic quartz in common colors.
Countertop Size
The total square footage and any custom edging or shaping will determine how much quartz is needed. Large kitchens cost more than small bathrooms.
Edge Profiles
Decorative edges like beveled, ogee, and bullnose edges add complexity requiring special fabrication. Simple eased or straight edges are most affordable.
Thickness
Thicker 1 1/4” slabs offer enhanced durability and heft but cost more due to higher material volumes. Standard 3/4″ quartz is fine for most homes.
Fabrication
Exacting projects with intricate seams, cutouts, and edge details require advanced fabrication mastery which adds to costs. Basic slab installations are most economical.
Installation
Seam placement, sink and faucet cutouts, matching patterns, and precise installation labor impacts price. Complex jobs may need 3+ installers.
Expected Price Ranges for Quartz Countertops in Scarborough
Depending on the variables above, here are typical price ranges for quartz countertops from Scarborough providers:
- Low End: $50-70 per sq. ft. for basic quartz in standard colors on smaller projects
- Mid Range: $70-100 per sq. ft. for mainstream brands in popular styles
- High End: $100-150+ per sq. ft. for exotic quartz with intricate fabrication and installation
Many companies also charge extra for sink cutouts, seams, and edging treatments like bullnose edges. Always get an itemized quote listing all expected costs. Most quartz countertop installations in Scarborough fall in the $70-120 per square foot range.
How to Measure Your Space for a Quote
Accurately measuring your existing countertops is crucial for getting accurate estimates. Here are some tips:
- Clear all items off countertops so you have a clean surface to measure
- Use a steel measuring tape for precision – do not estimate sizes
- Measure length and width for each separate section – make a sketch if needed
- Measure all awkward angles, curves, edges, and anything custom
- Note any cutouts needed for sinks, stoves, and other features
- Capture the locations of all seams and edges
- Photograph your space so installers understand any complexities
With detailed measurements, providers can calculate precisely how much quartz you need and required fabrication details. This allows them to give an accurate quote for materials, fabrication, edges, sinks cuts, and installation.
Installation Tips for Quartz Countertops
Proper installation is critical to ensure your quartz countertops last for many years and function properly. Here are top tips:
- Hire experienced installers – quartz is unforgiving if seams or edges are off
- Allow 1/8″ between walls for minor expansion of materials
- Adhere slabs to sturdy cabinet bases, not flimsy frames
- Use flexible silicone caulk between countertops and walls
- Take care to clean spills quickly to avoid stains and damage
- Use trivets or pads under hot pots and pans to prevent burning
Reputable fabricators handle installation using best practices for long-lasting results. Provide access to workspaces and coordinate all aspects of the installation process.
Caring for Your Quartz Countertops
Quartz requires very little maintenance with proper care:
- For everyday cleaning, use mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Blot spills quickly before they have a chance to soak in and stain.
- Reseal quartz every 1-2 years using specially formulated quartz sealers.
- Avoid using knives directly on the surface to prevent scratches. Use a cutting board.
- Don’t place extremely hot items from oven or stove directly on quartz.
- Check manufacturer guidelines for using quartz cleaners and polishes.
With routine care, quartz countertops stay looking like new for decades.
FAQs about Buying Quartz in Scarborough
How should I choose between natural stone vs quartz?
Quartz tends to be more stain and scratch resistant than many types of natural stone. Quartz also doesn’t require ongoing sealing. Natural stone offers a more organic, unique look but can be higher maintenance.
What thickness is best for quartz countertops?
The standard thickness of 3/4” is fine for most applications. Go with 1 1/4” thickness for heavy use areas like kitchen islands or peninsula counters seeing the most action.
Do quartz countertops have seams?
Quartz countertops are created from slabs so seams are typically required, especially on larger installations. Experienced fabricators strategically place seams in discreet locations. Seam placement depends on kitchen layout and slab size availability.
Can you repair chips or cracks in quartz?
Minor chips or cracks can often be repaired by expert countertop technicians. Make sure any repairs are done properly to keep surfaces hygienic and prevent further damage. Severely damaged quartz may need replacement.
How long do quartz countertops last compared to other materials?
With proper care and maintenance, quartz countertops can last 50 years or longer before needing replacement. Quartz lasts longer than most laminate or wood options. Granite may last equally as long but requires more maintenance.
Conclusion
With the right quartz company handling fabrication and installation, you can enjoy beautiful, durable quartz countertops in your Scarborough home for decades to come. Be sure to review options thoroughly and get quotes from a few of the most reputable providers serving Scarborough. Carefully measure your existing space and make material selections to get the most accurate estimate. With this guide, you can find the perfect quartz countertops and have them professionally installed by a top company in Scarborough, Maine.