The thickness, color hues, percentage of resin, and percentage of quartz minerals in the slab determine the grade of the countertop. Choosing a good grade ensures that a homeowner's countertop will stand the test of time.
Bring Your Samples. Match with Existing Elements: Compare quartz samples directly with existing elements like cabinets, tiles, and paint to ensure a cohesive look. Texture and Finish Considerations: Look at how the texture and finish of the quartz sample interact with other textures in your space.
Premium-grade or first choice quartz is the highest quality and most expensive grade. Grade A quartz is engineered by combining natural quartz with resin and colored pigments. It offers the most intricate patterns and colors, resembling natural stones like granite and marble.
Quartz countertop costs can vary tremendously (more on that soon!), but you should expect to pay between $100 to $200 per square foot installed, says Bob Bakes, cofounder and head of design at Bakes & Kropp, a kitchen design and cabinetry company. More expensive slabs deliver richer colors and textures, he says.
How much does a 10 foot quartz countertop cost? Quartz price per sq ft is around $50, so 10 ft quartz should be anywhere between $400 to $600 depending on the grade of quartz you're willing to purchase.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Quartz Countertops
The grade is determined by the quality of quartz used, the complexity of the color and pattern, and the overall finish. High-end quartz often features intricate patterns and a more polished finish, contributing to a higher price.
Yes, it absolutely matters! Keep reading to find out why.
Unlike natural stone (granite, marble, soapstone, etc.), quartz slabs are man-made. Behind a man-made product, there is usually some form of marketing or branding taking place.
Caesarstone, Silestone, and Cambria Quartz are among the most popular high-end quartz brands, known for their quality and extensive color options. Many quartz manufacturers now produce designs that closely mimic the look of natural stone like marble and granite.
#1.
Quartz countertops do have a certain level of heat resistance. However, it's not as heat-resistant as granite countertops. The same thing that makes quartz countertops so strong also makes them weak when you put heat or hot cookware on them.
Real clear quartz may have inclusions that make the inside of the crystal appear scratched or foggy, while fake glass quartz may appear completely perfect. Some inclusions can't be seen with the naked eye. Try putting your crystal under a microscope to see if you can spot any imperfections.
Can You Put Hot Cooking Utensils On A Quartz Countertop? The quick answer is no, you should aim to not place a hot pan on a quartz kitchen worktop as the heat from the pan will cause the quartz to burn. The resin that is in the quartz material can only withhold 150 degrees in heat before it reaches its maximum.
Low-grade quartz, often referred to as "second choice" or “builder-grade,” includes a higher percentage of resin and fillers compared to pure quartz. This makes it more affordable but less durable. Pros: An affordable option for budget-conscious homeowners.
Check for pattern and colour consistency
Natural quartz, the primary component of these countertops, is renowned for its uniform appearance. On the other hand, fake quartz countertops might display irregular patterns or colours that seem too perfect. Examine the surface closely and check the finish.
High-Grade Quartz Countertops
High-grade quartz, also known as designer grade, stands out for its striking resemblance to natural stone. These countertops feature deep, clear colors, complex patterns, and high levels of translucence.
Cambria is a leading brand because it performs well due to its material composition and lasting quality. Cambria has its own quartz sources and doesn't import materials from outside America. Working with their own quartz mineral supplies helps cut costs as well as create savings for new product development.
The cost of a good quality quartz countertop ranges between $50 to $65 per square foot, while that of better quartz countertop quality ranges between $65 to $75. Therefore, if you are looking for the best quality quartz countertop, you're likely to spend between $75 to $150 per square foot.
For quartz countertops, always choose mild dish soap and water or cleaners specifically designed for quartz. Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or vinegar, which can damage the surface.
First Quality: This level utilizes the most premium Quartz. With this Quartz grade the countertops will offer rich colors and very minimum veins.
2) It's Vulnerable to Heat Damage
Excessive heat can damage a quartz countertop because its resins melt when in contact with heat. That's why you should avoid putting items like hot pots, pans or curling irons directly on the surface.
The low threshold makes quartz more likely to burn or break when in contact with heat. Therefore, you can put a hot mug of coffee on your countertop, but a searing hot pan or boiling pot of water could leave a burn mark. Over time, coffee mugs and teacups could leave burn marks as well.