Installing quartz countertops can greatly improve the look and functionality of your kitchen or bathroom. With its durability, low maintenance, and customizability, quartz has become an increasingly popular choice for countertops. If you’re considering quartz for your next renovation project, here is a guide on where to find and buy quartz countertops near you.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, also known as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The result is a material that is non-porous, stain resistant, and heat tolerant while still providing an attractive, stone-like appearance.
Some key advantages of quartz countertops include:
- Extremely durable and scratch resistant
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Resists stains, bacteria, and heat damage
- Available in a wide variety of colors and patterns
- Doesn’t require frequent sealing like natural stone
- Non-porous so liquids don’t seep in
Quartz has surpassed granite as the most popular material for kitchen counters due to its optimal balance of form and function. When shopping for new countertops, quartz is an excellent option to consider.
Where to Shop for Quartz Countertops
You can find quartz countertops at several types of retailers near you:
Big Box Stores
Major home improvement stores such as Home Depot and Lowe’s typically have a selection of popular quartz brands on display. You can browse slabs in-store and order through the store. Big box stores mainly carry mid-range quartz options.
Kitchen and Bath Showrooms
Specialty kitchen and bath showrooms will have a wider variety of quartz countertop styles and colors on hand from both major brands and smaller manufacturers. Their knowledgeable staff can provide advice on selecting the right quartz material.
Stone Yards
Stone yards are warehouses that store and fabricate slabs of natural stone and engineered quartz. Visiting a local stone yard allows you to browse through a huge inventory of quartz materials. They can also customize the fabrication to your exact specifications.
Countertop Fabricators
Countertop fabricators focus specifically on the manufacturing and installation of countertops. Many exclusively work with quartz. Going through a reputable local fabricator often provides the best quality installation and most seamless buying experience.
Online
You can browse quartz countertop options at retailer websites or order samples to view colors and patterns in-person. However, you will still need to visit a physical retailer or fabricator to view full slabs. I do not recommend purchasing quartz countertops purely online without seeing the material first.
How to Choose the Best Quartz Countertop Supplier
It’s important to find a quality quartz countertop provider. Here are some tips for evaluating suppliers:
- View full slabs in person – Never select a quartz color or pattern from just a small sample. Slabs can have significant natural variation.
- Ask about their fabrication facility – Look for state-of-the-art equipment and processes for a precise installation.
- Verify they follow manufacturer guidelines – This ensures your warranty will be valid.
- Check reviews and complaints – Look for consistent 5-star ratings and satisfaction across previous customers.
- Compare pricing – Get quotes from 3-5 fabricators to find the best value. Beware prices that seem too low.
- Confirm they handle installation – Ideally, you want to deal with just one company for the full process.
- View their previous work – Reputable suppliers will proudly display photos/videos of past quartz projects.
Taking the time to vet suppliers will give you peace of mind that your countertops will exceed your expectations.
Factors That Influence Quartz Countertop Costs
Prices for installed quartz countertops range widely from $40 per square foot up to $150 per square foot depending on these key factors:
- Brand – Major brands like Caesarstone and Cambria cost more than lesser known quartz suppliers.
- Color and Pattern – More complex designs and rare colors increase the price. Neutral tones are most affordable.
- Edge Profiles – Decorative edges like ogee and bevel add labor and increase costs. Standard eased or straight edges are the least expensive.
- Thickness – 1 1⁄4” or 1 1⁄2” thick material is advised for heavily used kitchen counters. 3⁄4” may suffice for bathrooms.
- Fabrication – Highly customized projects with special cutouts or edge work will have higher fabrication fees.
- Installation – Simple countertop replacement is cheaper than new cabinetry and plumbing work.
Getting quotes from different quartz suppliers near you is the best way to balance price, aesthetics, and quality for your new countertops.
FAQs
Below are answers to some frequently asked questions about buying quartz countertops locally:
How long does it take to install quartz counters?
Most straightforward kitchen quartz countertop installations take 1-2 days. More complex jobs with special cutouts or edge profiles take 2-3 days.
What thickness should I choose?
3⁄4” quartz can be used for bathroom vanity tops. However, 1 1⁄4”-1 1⁄2” are recommended for kitchens to withstand heavy usage.
What does quartz cost compared to granite?
Quartz is typically 30% to 50% more expensive than granite for the material, but installation costs are similar. Overall quartz countertop costs are $5-15 more per square foot than granite.
Can quartz counters support weight?
Properly installed quartz countertops can support several hundred pounds. However, it’s still best to avoid standing on them to prevent impact damage.
How long does a quartz countertop last?
With proper care, quartz countertops will last for many decades before needing replacement. The resins help prevent natural quartz erosion.
Is quartz better than Corian or laminate?
Quartz is far superior in durability, heat-resistance, and appearance compared to Corian, laminate, and other countertop materials. It provides a great balance of aesthetic style and rugged functionality.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading to quartz countertops is a worthwhile investment that can significantly improve the look and enjoyment of your home’s kitchen and bathrooms. With some smart shopping techniques, you can find the perfect quartz countertop colors and patterns for your needs from suppliers near you at a reasonable price. Be sure to take your time evaluating different quartz slabs in person before making a decision. If properly installed by an experienced local fabricator, you will love your new quartz counters for decades to come.