First Quality: This level utilizes the most premium Quartz. With this Quartz grade the countertops will offer rich colors and very minimum veins. We carry a multitude of Quartz slabs ranging the spectrum of styles and looks.
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.
Examine the quartz slab for flaws, cracks, chips, scrapes, stains, watermarks, or contaminants. Quartz thickness levels should also be consistent throughout the slab, which is an indicator of its quality.
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.
High-Grade Quartz Countertops
High-grade quartz is the preferred choice for luxury installations where design and exclusivity are important.
Corian is cheaper than quartz upfront. You can expect to pay between $40 and $65 per square foot for Corian while quartz starts at $40 and can extend well beyond $200 per square foot.
When it comes to different grades of quartz, there is the first choice, commercial-grade, and second choice. These grades of quartz determine overall cost, durability, aesthetics and impact your home's overall value.
Quartz countertops cost an average of $4,500 but can range from $1,000 on the low end to $12,000 on the high end. The cost of quartz countertops per square foot ranges from about $50 to $200 per square foot.
See the color between the slabs
A quality quartz slab should have a perfect blend between the slab, and the next slab. It is essential for kitchens with more than one slab. A slab with slight color variations between the ends will show these imperfections when you seam two slabs together.
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.
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.
When choosing a luxury countertop, you have two choices: quartz or granite. Both of these materials are fantastic – and they're the subject of today's luxury countertop material comparison!
First Choice Grade Quartz (Grade A): Often hailed as the epitome of luxury and durability, this grade boasts rich and brilliant colors, offering a smooth, marble-like finish. With a price range hovering between $80 to $100+ per square foot and a high resin content of 7-8%, it promises unmatched durability.
On the Mohs Hardness Scale, Silestone rates a 10 compared to a 7 for Caesarstone. Yet, Caesarstone runs about $60 to $80 per square foot. Silestone prices range between $50 to $70 per square feet. Finally, Silestone offers a 10 to 15-year warranty on their products depending on the dealer and stone you choose.
First Quality: This level utilizes the most premium Quartz. With this Quartz grade the countertops will offer rich colors and very minimum veins.
Cambria and Silestone are considered to be two of the more expensive types of quartz, but they are also very high-quality brands.
Surface Deep Patterns
Quartz countertops are often designed with veining patterns to give them the look of natural stone. Lower quality products may display surface-deep patterns rather than veining that permeates the entire slab. How would you know? By looking at the outside edges.
Level 2 Quartz Colors $49.99 /sq. ft.
Which is more expensive, quartz or granite? Both quartz and granite maintain their value for many years to come, and the materials cost approximately the same, with quartz being slightly less expensive. However, luxurious quartz products can be as expensive as granite slabs.
For cost-efficient, long-term countertop options, consider granite and other natural stone materials. Sheets of granite are smooth, durable and heat-resistant, making this the perfect material to use in your kitchen.
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.
The verdict. Corian is more versatile and available in a larger array of colours and patterns, whereas quartz has a unique appearance, more heat and scratch resistant and more durable.