Purchasing Through Home Improvement Stores
Home improvement mega-stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s offer a selection of Zodiaq slabs that you can purchase for installation. These stores carry popular colors and patterns that are in stock and ready for quick purchase. Keep in mind that the inventory at home improvement stores is limited compared to a dedicated stone supplier. However, they offer a convenient option if you want to buy your quartz countertop materials and installation together.
Some benefits of purchasing Zodiaq through home improvement stores include:
- National chain with many retail locations for convenience
- Can coordinate countertop purchase with installation services
- Special financing and discounts sometimes offered
- Easy returns and warranty support
Be sure to carefully inspect the slab for any damage prior to purchase. Also measure your space and have the slab cut to the exact size needed for your project.
Buying Through a Stone Supplier or Fabricator
For the widest selection of colors, patterns, and stock availability, purchasing Zodiaq slabs through a specialized stone supplier or fabricator is recommended. These companies focus specifically on natural stone and engineered quartz materials, so they have enormous inventories and a vast knowledge of product characteristics.
When you purchase through a stone supplier, you can select the exact slab you want for aesthetic and pattern consistency. The supplier will then fabricate and install the countertop for a seamless process.
Benefits of purchasing Zodiaq through a stone supplier/fabricator:
- Access to full range of colors, including exclusive/premium options
- Can hand select slabs to control pattern and shading
- Expert guidance onquartz material properties and performance
- Coordinated fabrication and installation services
- Established relationships with major quartz brands
Be sure to ask about express turnaround options if needed and verify warranty details when purchasing through a third-party retailer. Also request pictures and samples to preview the material.
Ordering Directly Through the Manufacturer
Purchasing your Zodiaq quartz countertops directly through the manufacturer, Cambria, is another option. Cambria has an extensive gallery of designs and colors, including many exclusives not available anywhere else. They can ship slabs directly to your home or contractor for installation.
Some perks of factory-direct Zodiaq purchasing:
- Access to full product line, including designer collections
- Colors and styles not available at retail stores
- No middleman means potential cost savings
- Seamless warranty and customer service direct from Cambria
The process involves requesting free samples, choosing a style, ordering slabs, and arranging delivery. Cambria partners with local installers to handle fabrication and installation. Keep in mind that ordering direct involves more lead time and coordination versus buying in-stock through a store.
How to Choose the Best Purchase Option
When deciding where to purchase your Zodiaq quartz countertops, consider the following:
- Timeframe – How quickly do you need the countertop installed? Stores have more in-stock availability.
- Color/pattern selections – Buying direct or through a supplier gives you the entire portfolio.
- Coordination required – Stores make it easy to buy and install together.
- Budget – Buying direct may offer some cost savings.
- Countertop size – Stores can cut standard slab sizes. Suppliers can accommodate more custom sizing.
No matter where you purchase, be sure to inspect the slabs carefully before finalizing. Also measure properly and account for seams and overhang. With proper planning, you can purchase high-quality, stylish Zodiaq countertops from a variety of sources to fit your project’s needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Zodiaq Quartz Countertops
What are the most popular colors and styles of Zodiaq quartz?
Some of the most popular Zodiaq colors and patterns include:
- White Cliff, a bright, crisp white
- Ravenn Oak, resembling natural quartzite with grey veining
- Brittanicca Gold, with glittering flecks of gold
- Seaglass, a vibrant blue-green tone
- Torquay, with the look of natural marble
Popular styles mimic natural stone as well as bold solid colors and modern styles with glass or metal accents. Choices range from neutrals to bold hues.
Does Zodiaq need to be sealed?
No, Zodiaq does not require sealing. It is non-porous so fluids don’t penetrate the surface. One of the benefits of engineered quartz is that it does not need ongoing sealing.
What thickness should I choose for Zodiaq countertops?
The standard thickness for Zodiaq countertops is 3/4″ (2cm). If you have a particularly large span for your countertop sections, a thicker 1 1/4″ (3cm) slab provides some added durability and support. Anything thicker than that is generally not needed for residential use.
What is the best edge profile for Zodiaq quartz?
The most popular edge profiles for Zodiaq countertops are:
- Eased – A square edge softened by rounding the corner
- Bullnose – A rounded, curved profile
- Half bullnose – A small rounded edge with a lip
- Bevel – A flat angled edge
An eased or bullnose edge help prevent chipping on the corners. Bevels can look more modern and sleek.
Does temperature affect Zodiaq quartz?
Zodiaq can withstand heat up to 212°F before experiencing any issues. This makes it suitable for kitchens where hot pans may contact the surface. As a precaution, using trivets and hot pads is still advisable to maintain the long-lasting beauty. Prolonged high heat may damage solid surface materials.
Conclusion
With attractive low-maintenance surfaces available in a diverse range of colors and patterns, Zodiaq quartz offers an excellent choice for upgrading kitchen and bath countertops. Home improvement stores, fabricators, and direct purchasing from Cambria all provide viable options when buying your Zodiaq slabs, each with their own benefits and considerations. Carefully measuring your space, selecting the right thickness and edge profile, and properly inspecting materials are all critical to ensure your new Zodiaq countertops project is a success. With the right purchasing approach for your needs, Zodiaq can provide enduring beauty in your home for years to come.