How to choose a quartz slab?

Quartz surfaces and countertops are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners and kitchen and bath designers. Renowned for their ease of maintenance, these surfaces come in an extensive array of colors, patterns, and textures. While primarily used in kitchens and bathrooms, quartz can also serve as backsplashes, shower stalls, shower entries, tub decking, and fireplace surrounds.

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This renovated kitchen features a new layout that maximizes counter and storage space. The perimeter counters are adorned with granite (named 'Verde Peacock'), while the island showcases a quartz surface (Cambria in 'Minera').

Made from ground quartz combined with polyester resin as a binder, quartz surfaces are nonporous and antimicrobial, making them resistant to stains, odors, and bacterial growth. These surfaces can be installed as slabs or cut into tiles. However, it is important to note that quartz is not suitable for outdoor installations due to its susceptibility to sun fading, which could also void warranties.

Here are four essential tips to help you find the ideal quartz surfaces and countertops for your kitchen, bathroom, or other remodeling projects.

1. Choose Colors, Patterns, and Texture

In recent years, manufacturers have transformed the appearance of quartz surfaces. One remarkable product on the market is Cambria quartz, which is American-made and features patterns resembling granite or marble. Cambria offers an impressive range of colors, and their online 'paint match' tool helps you coordinate colors with Benjamin Moore wall accents.

Another noteworthy manufacturer, Caesarstone, is leading the way in introducing innovative patterns that mimic Calacatta marble, cement, and black granite. Their stunning 'Concetto Collection' presents semi-precious stone quartz surfaces that appear similar to geodes.

Silestone introduces quartz countertop options with three textures—polished, matte, and rugged—and a fresh selection of color patterns showcasing flecks, veining, and bright contemporary designs.

DuPont Zodiac offers a more limited yet attractive spectrum of neutral colors, including marble patterns.

2. Select the Right Thickness

Choosing the correct thickness of quartz is vital for your application. The typical thickness for quartz slabs is 1¼ inches, which is generally recommended for kitchen and bathroom countertops. Quartz is also available in ¾ inch and 1 ½ inch thicknesses, and Cambria presents a 1-centimeter thick slab that can be utilized for layered edge profiles.

Quartz surfaces can be used for various applications. An exemplary custom-built walk-in shower features a quartz corner seat, with marble wall tiles (Dobkin Tile- Elegance: Perseo Statuario) complemented by glass listello tiles (Best Tile 'Precious Gems'), quartz shower seat (Cambria 'Braemar'), and a slip-resistant black tile floor (Dobkin Tile 'Toros Black Tumbled Marble').

3. Choose Edging

Edging plays a crucial role in defining the style of your counter or vanity and influences pricing. Standard edges include straight (squared) and waterfall designs, which can be applied to 1¼ inch thick quartz. More sophisticated edging options, such as ogee (curved), pencil, beveled, bullnose (rounded), and 'laminated edging' profiles, add additional layers of quartz for a striking appearance. For further information, consider downloading Cambria's guide on their 19 edge profiles.

4. Select Appliances and Plumbing Fixtures Before Choosing Your Quartz Surface

Before fabrication, measurements of the area where the quartz will be installed will be taken. If you’re remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, selecting your sinks and faucets beforehand is essential. The fabricator will need the dimensions and number of holes for installation. If you're installing a cooktop, a cutout will be necessary.

A glass cooktop was installed alongside this quartz counter, with precise cuts made during fabrication to accommodate the cooktop and enhance the counter edge.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Quartz Countertop

Quartz countertops are crafted from a durable mix of natural stone and resin. As the fourth hardest natural stone, it is often compared to topaz and diamonds. Its intricate weaves and various color palettes make it a favored choice among home renovators and interior designers for both residential and commercial uses.

Durability is another advantage; quartz countertops can last for many years. If you believe in the adage "if it’s not broken, don’t fix it," your choice in quartz may serve you well long-term. While selection can be overwhelming, a clear understanding of what to look for can simplify the process.

How to Choose Quartz Countertops

Choosing a quartz countertop can seem daunting, but breaking it down into manageable tasks makes it less intimidating. Here are some tips to keep your selection process smooth.

Brand

When selecting quartz, it’s crucial to choose a brand with high-quality quartz-to-resin ratios. American-made brands generally offer superior durability and performance compared to their foreign counterparts, which often contain a higher resin percentage. Notable brands like MSI Q Quartz, Cambria, and Caesarstone are known for their durability and beautiful nature-inspired patterns.

Cost

Due to its non-porous nature, quartz countertops resist stains and bacteria. In fact, when compared to high-maintenance options like marble, quartz proves to be more affordable and low-maintenance. Factors affecting pricing include brand, color, texture, edge profile, slab cutouts, and installation costs.

Visual Appearance

The appearance of your countertop is crucial, not only for visitors but also for you as the homeowner. Quartz countertops come in a plethora of colors—from the classic pearl to the elegant Antico Cloud. Different patterns and designs become essential in ensuring your countertop complements the aesthetics of your space.

Supplier and designer palettes offer a variety of colors; visualizing your chosen selections within the room is recommended. Taking samples home helps you find the best fit.

Quartz Slabs vs. Prefabs

Understanding the differences between slab and prefabricated countertops is vital. Prefabricated countertops are generally less expensive and faster to install, but options for customization are limited. On the other hand, full slab quartz countertops offer the opportunity for a bespoke design, albeit at a higher cost.

Thickness

The thickness of quartz countertops affects their ability to bear weight. For designs that anticipate high use, thicker options are preferable, while thinner versions lend a sleek, modern look but may be less durable.

Finishes

Finishes can significantly impact the overall appeal. Quartz countertops can come in glossy or matte finishes, with polished versions suiting classic settings, and matte finishes providing warmth to contemporary spaces.

Edges

Edge design can influence the overall look and feel of your countertops. Polished edges provide a modern aesthetic, while rounded edges evoke a more classic appearance.

Appliances and Overall Motif

Your selected countertops should harmonize with the rest of your kitchen or bathroom design. Consider all factors collectively, including appliances, colors, and overall aesthetics.

Conclusion

Choosing high-quality quartz countertops entails careful consideration of your overall space. By simplifying the selection process into smaller tasks, you can effectively manage what can initially seem overwhelming.

Engaging with professionals who are experienced can enhance your decision-making process. Our team specializes in quartz countertops, providing expert guidance tailored to your project. We invite you to call us at (888) 906 for assistance in finding the perfect quartz solution.

For further details, don’t hesitate to visit us at Quartz Stone Manufacturer.