Meta description: Looking for quartz countertops? This definitive guide covers where to find quartz countertops, top brands, pros/cons, costs, installation, care & maintenance. Learn how to find the perfect quartz countertop.
Introduction
Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodels in recent years. Made from ground quartz particles combined with resins and pigments, quartz offers an attractive, low-maintenance, and durable alternative to natural stone and laminate. With colors and patterns that rival granite and marble, quartz is resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. It does not require periodic sealing like natural stone. This makes quartz an ideal choice for busy kitchens and baths. But where exactly can you find quartz countertops?
Where to Purchase Quartz Countertops
When you decide quartz is the right material for your next countertop project, you have several options on where to make your purchase:
Big Box Stores
Major home improvement chains like Home Depot and Lowe’s offer a selection of quartz countertops. They typically stock popular colors and patterns from leading brands like Cambria, Caesarstone, and Silestone. Prices are competitive but availability may be limited compared to a specialized distributor. Big box stores can be a convenient option if you want to see quartz slabs in person before purchasing. Keep in mind that the inventory on display is not necessarily what you will end up with. Be sure to double check that your desired color, finish, and sizing is in stock or can be ordered for your project timeline.
Kitchen and Bath Showrooms
Privately owned kitchen and bath showrooms often have a wide variety of quartz countertop brands, colors, patterns, and edge profiles on display. You can browse slabs in-person and compare options from different manufacturers side-by-side. Keep in mind that higher-end brands like Cambria are typically only available through designated Cambria showrooms. Sales associates can provide expert guidance on selecting the right quartz material and edges for your space. They may also offer design services to visualize your finished project.
Countertop Fabricators
Working directly with a local countertop fabricator opens up more possibilities for customizing your quartz countertops. Instead of being limited to in-stock materials, fabricators can order slabs in any color and size you desire from their distributors. They will have sample chips, brochures, and websites to help you select your preferred quartz color and pattern. Fabricators will also fabricate and install your countertops. Purchasing directly from a fabricator eliminates retailer markups.
Online
For convenience, you can browse and order quartz countertops online from manufacturers like Cambria, Caesarstone, Silestone, and MSI. Their websites allow you to filter selections by color, pattern, finish, edge profiles, and other specifications. You can request free samples to view colors in person. Once purchased, the manufacturer will work with your local fabricator to template, fabricate, and install your countertops. Ordering online makes sense if you already know exactly which brand, color, and style you want without needing to see slabs in person.
Pros and Cons of Quartz Countertops
Before deciding on quartz, weigh the advantages and disadvantages:
Pros
- Extremely durable and scratch resistant
- Stain resistant, does not require periodic sealing
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Resists heat damage
- Wide variety of colors, patterns, and finishes
- Non-porous, inhibits bacterial growth
- Less costly than natural stone
- Consistent color and pattern throughout the slab
Cons
- Difficult to repair chips and cracks due to resins
- Seams more noticeable than natural stone
- Limited number of suppliers compared to granite
- Colors restricted to quartz particles and pigments
- Higher cost than laminate
For most homeowners, the pros of durability, low maintenance, and stylish aesthetics outweigh the minimal cons of quartz countertops. Focus your selection on color/pattern, quality of manufacture, and overall performance for your needs.
Leading Quartz Brands
If you have decided on quartz, choosing the right brand is key. Major quartz suppliers include:
Cambria Quartz
- Founded in Minnesota in 2000
- Only manufactures quartz (no granite or other surfaces)
- Offers the widest variety of unique quartz colors/patterns
- Known for artistic designs inspired by natural stone
- One of the highest quality quartz brands
- 10 year limited warranty
Caesarstone Quartz
- Leading international quartz brand founded in 1987
- Known for innovation in quartz manufacturing techniques
- Offers over 120 quartz colors/patterns
- Wide range of styles from marble looks to concrete
- High durability rating and scratch resistance
- Lifetime limited warranty
Silestone Quartz
- Produced by Spanish company Cosentino
- Over 90 vibrant quartz colors and textures
- Known for beautiful integrated sink options
- Branded bacteriostatic protection
- Constantly developing new quartz technologies
- 25 year limited warranty
MSI StackedStone Quartz
- Family-owned American company since 1975
- Affordably priced quartz option
- More than 50 quartz colors and styles
- 15 year limited warranty
- Peerless aesthetics and quality
Always check consumer reviews and warranty terms when selecting a brand. Top quartz suppliers like Cambria and Caesarstone are synonymous with high-quality manufacturing and durability.
Factors That Impact Cost of Quartz
Quartz is priced competitively with granite and other upscale countertop materials. Expect to pay $40 to over $100 per square foot installed. What drives the cost?
- Brand – Higher-end brands charge more for their proprietary designs
- Color/Pattern – Unique/Elaborate options cost more than basic solids
- Thickness – Standard 3cm runs $50-70 per SqFt. Thicker 2cm is $70-90 per SqFt.
- Edge Profiles – Intricate edges like ogee/waterfall cost more than standard
- Fabrication – Special cuts for curves/angles add fabrication fees
- Installation – Simple flat islands cost less than complex tile-style patterns
On average, expect to spend $2500 to $4000 for a medium sized quartz kitchen countertop project. Focus on quality over price alone. An investment in a premium quartz will pay dividends in performance and longevity.
How to Select the Right Quartz Countertop
Choosing the perfect quartz requires consideration of your needs:
Color
- View color samples in different lighting conditions
- Neutrals like whites/grays easy to match any kitchen
- Bolder colors make a design statement
- Natural, marble-look patterns blend with other surfaces
Pattern
- Uniform solid colors show less seams vs. bold patterns
- Stone-look patterns mimic granite, marble, onyx etc.
- Abstract styles offer artistic one-of-a-kind visuals
- Look for pattern consistency from slab to slab
Finish
- Polished finish offers elegant shine
- Honed finish provides a soft matte look
- Other unique finishes like concrete, leather, etc.
Durability
- Opt for quartz rated ≥ 4000 on the Mohs Scale
- Reviews confirm quality and durability for the brand
- Manufacturer warranty should guarantee performance
Maintenance
- Ensure quartz has non-porous qualities
- Antibacterial protection inhibits germs and bacteria
- Needs no sealing and easily cleaned
By weighing all these factors, you can select the ideal quartz countertop to match your unique style, needs and budget. Never settle on just price or color alone. Consider overall value based on quality of the brand and product.
How to Buy Quartz Countertops Step-by-Step
Follow this process for purchasing quartz:
1. Decide on Type of Quartz
- Review brands, colors, patterns, finish options
- View samples to decide what best fits your space
- Consider how color complements cabinets, flooring, backsplashes
2. Select Fabricator and/or Retailer
- Search reputable local countertop shops/showrooms
- Read reviews and confirm they carry your brand selection
- Get quotes for material, fabrication, installation
3. Place Order
- Provide dimensions: countertop measurements and edge profiles
- Place deposit once quote approved
- Finalize timeline – allow 3+ weeks for fabrication
4. Template and Fabricate
- Countertops are professionally templated using exact measurements
- Slabs matched and fabricated to fit your kitchen
- Cutouts made for sink basins and cooktops
5. Installation
- Old countertops removed and new installed
- Seams and edges completed for seamless finish
- Final adjustments made to ensure proper fit
Follow these steps and your dream quartz countertops will transform your space beautifully and functionally.
How to Care for Quartz Countertops
Caring for quartz is simple:
- Quartz requires minimal maintenance due to non-porous nature
- For everyday cleaning, wipe with soft cloth and warm soapy water
- Avoid abrasive cleaners and pads which may dull surface
- Disinfect surface with diluted bleach – kills bacteria
- Blot spills immediately to prevent staining
- Reseal seams every 1-2 years for optimal moisture resistance
- Avoid exposing to strong chemicals like paint removers
- Use trivets under hot pots and pans to prevent thermal shock
- Immediately wipe up any spilled liquids, oils or grease
By following these basic care guidelines, your quartz countertops will stay looking like new for decades. The little effort required is worth it for a lifetime of worry-free, high-performance beauty.
FAQs about Quartz Countertops
Is quartz healthier than granite?
Yes, quartz contains zero emissions and is non-porous, so it does not support bacteria growth. Granite can harbor bacteria in the tiny pores.
Which is better value – quartz or granite?
Quartz often provides better value over granite considering lower maintenance requirements and higher resistance to damage. Long-term quartz saves homeowners money.
How durable and heat resistant is quartz?
Leading quartz brands are engineered to withstand up to 450°F brief heat exposure. Quartz rates over 4000 on hardness scales, harder than granite.
Can you cut on quartz countertops?
Yes, quartz stands up to regular kitchen use including cutting. Use a cutting board to protect the surface. Quartz resists knicks and scratches.
Do quartz countertops need to be sealed?
No. Top quality quartz resists moisture and staining without sealants. Occasionally sealing seams helps prevent moisture penetration.
What are quartz countertops made of?
Quartz surfaces consist of roughly 90% ground quartz blended with resins/pigments that bind it into slabs. The end result is an engineered stone product of pure natural beauty.
Are quartz countertops expensive to install?
Quartz costs $40 to over $100 per square foot installed. Simple flat layouts on stable cabinets cost less. Elaborate tile patterns, edges, cutouts increase install price.
What edge profiles can you get with quartz?
Quartz can be finished with any edge imaginable – standard square, beveled, ogee, bullnose, chamfered, waterfall, and custom designer edges.
Can you install quartz countertops yourself?
Quartz fabricators recommend using their professional installation services. The slabs are very heavy, and the installation process is meticulous. Mistakes can be costly.
Conclusion
With the right information on available options, selecting durable, low-maintenance quartz countertops that perfectly fit your home is easy. Take time to review the leading quartz brands, colors, patterns and costs. Focus on quality construction and performance. Order through a reputable local fabricator. With reasonable care, quartz countertops will beautifully withstand decades of daily use. I hope this guide provides helpful insights on where to find quartz countertops and how to select the perfect slabs for your next kitchen or bath remodeling project. Let the allure of quartz transform your space today!