Quartz countertops by A&C are some of the most popular options for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects. Known for their durability, low maintenance, and wide variety of colors and patterns, A&C quartz delivers a beautiful high-end look without the high price tag. This guide will explore everything you need to know about a&c quartz countertops to help you decide if they are the right choice for your home.
What is Quartz?
Quartz is an engineered stone made from crushed quartz particles combined with pigments and resin for binding. The quartz content typically makes up 90-94% of the material. Unlike natural stone, quartz is non-porous so it does not require sealing. The resin binding also makes quartz more flexible and resistant to cracks and chips.
Quartz offers a wide array of colors and patterns for countertops since pigments can be added to create different looks. The resulting material is very hard and durable, almost as strong as granite or marble. However, quartz requires less maintenance and is more stain and scratch resistant than other natural stones.
Benefits of Choosing A&C Quartz
A&C quartz countertops provide all the same benefits of quartz with some added perks that make them stand out from other quartz brands:
Affordable Luxury
A&C quartz offers high-end stone countertops at budget-friendly prices. Similar quartz brands can cost up to three times more. The savings mean you can get beautiful quartz counters without breaking the bank.
Quality Craftsmanship
Each slab is meticulously inspected and manufactured to ensure proper thickness, radiant polish and flawless beauty. Only the highest quality quartz aggregates and polymer resins are used.
Variety of Colors and Patterns
With over 50 design options, A&C quartz comes in popular neutral tones as well as bold colors and vivid patterns. The diverse selection ensures you’ll find the perfect look for your space.
Stain and Scratch Resistant
A&C quartz is engineered to stand up to daily wear and tear. The non-porous surface resists stains from spills and cleaning products. It’s also scratch resistant so it can hold up to heavy use.
Minimal Maintenance
Since it never needs sealing or polishing, an A&C quartz counter requires very little maintenance. Simply clean with soap and water to keep it looking like new for years to come.
Durable and Strong
Quartz is one of the strongest countertop materials available. A&C quartz can withstand heat up to 212°F and is difficult to chip or crack. It’s built to last for decades with proper care.
A&C Quartz Countertop Colors
One of the best features of A&C quartz is the vast array of color and pattern options. Whether you prefer natural stone looks or bold, vivid colors, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your design vision. Here are some of the most popular A&C quartz colors:
Whites & Neutrals
- Snow White – A bright, crisp pure white that delivers a clean, contemporary look.
- Cloud – A white base with faint grey veining for subtle depth and dimension.
- Crystal – Light grey background with small flecks of glittering mica.
- Sandstone – A natural, beachy neutral with tan and grey striations.
- Riverbed – A smokey grey with dark charcoal veins running throughout.
Beiges & Browns
- Organic – Rich light brown with dramatic dark brown accents.
- Espresso – Deep chocolate brown tones perfect for traditional kitchens.
- Dolce – Creamy beige with a slightly marbled effect.
- Hazelnut – Warm beige base punched up with reddish-brown mica flecks.
- Oat – Subtle tan and brown swirls reminiscent of oatmeal.
Blacks & Grays
- Midnight – Inky, jet black color for modern spaces.
- Starry Night – Black with metallic star-like glittering accents.
- Thunderstorm – Dark charcoal grey with lighter grey marbling.
- Nickel – Smooth rich grey with a reflective sheen when lit.
Vivid Colors
- Atlantis – Vibrant marine blue interspersed with shimmering quartz crystals.
- Cherry Red – Fiery deep red adds drama and makes a bold statement.
- Mint Julep – Cool mint green for a playful, unique look.
- Tangerine – Bright juicy orange hue that instantly livens up any space.
- Amethyst – Jewel-toned purple with hints of grey veining and mica flakes.
A&C Quartz Patterns
Beyond solid colors, A&C quartz also offers stunning patterns for even more design options:
Marbles
The marbled patterns mimic the look of natural stone with swirling colors and veining. Options include:
- Calacatta Marble – White background with grey veining.
- Embers Marble – Neutral base with bursts of copper and gold.
- Emperador Marble – Bold white and grey marbling.
Granites
These patterns mimic the chunky speckled look of natural granite. Some top choices include:
- Midnight Granite – Deep black and grey specks.
- Santa Cecilia Granite – Vivid golden flecks on a black background.
- Blue Granite – Grey base with blue and green accents.
Concrete
The concrete patterns capture the look of weathered stone for industrial flair. Options include:
- Urban Concrete – Neutral tones with mottled texture.
- Shadow Concrete – Charcoal and black mimic poured concrete.
Other Unique Patterns
- Terrazzo – Colorful stone aggregates in a creamy base create vintage appeal.
- Meteor Shower – Black quartz with glittering silver flecks like a night sky.
- White Quartzite – White background with faint black striations.
How to Choose the Best A&C Quartz Color
With so many gorgeous colors and patterns available, it can be tough to settle on just one A&C quartz option for your project. Here are some tips for selecting the best color:
- Coordinate with your cabinetry – Contrasting or complimentary colors can make your kitchen really pop.
- Consider the room’s use – Darker colors can hide daily use in busy kitchens. Lighter is better for minimalist spaces.
- Match your design style – Contemporary spaces look best with bold colors like red or patterns like concrete. Traditional kitchens tend to pair well with beiges and neutral marbles.
- See a sample in person – Viewing a physical sample is the best way to get a true sense of the color in your space. Most retailers have sample books.
- Think about resale value – More neutral colors appeal to a wider range of buyers if you plan to sell your home eventually.
Remember that A&C quartz slabs can display slight variations from the sample colors. Be sure to approve your slab prior to installation to ensure you get the look you want.
The Best Uses for A&C Quartz Countertops
Thanks to its unbeatable durability and stunning appearance, A&C quartz is one of the most versatile countertop materials available. It’s ideal for use in these areas:
Kitchen Countertops
A&C quartz withstands heavy daily use, cutting, hot pans, and more that kitchens demand. Neutral colors easily match most cabinetry palettes. The non-porous surface won’t absorb stains from food prep and cleaning.
Bathroom Vanities
From mudrooms to master baths, A&C quartz offers water-resistance and aesthetic appeal. Vivid colors and patterns make a particularly bold statement.
Backsplashes
Use A&C quartz to complement the countertops for a cohesive look. Many homeowners opt for a backsplash in the same pattern.
Furniture
For dining room tables, desks, side tables, and more, A&C quartz provides durability and easy cleaning. Metallic patterns like Nickel or Concrete work great for furniture.
Outdoor Kitchens
Thanks to its resistance to moisture, temperature fluctuations and UV rays, A&C quartz serves well in outdoor kitchens.
A&C Quartz vs. Other Countertop Options
If you’re still undecided on materials, comparing A&C quartz to other popular countertop options can help determine the best choice for your needs:
Granite – Quartz offers more colors and patterns than natural granite. It’s also more resistant to scratches, stains and heat. However, granite costs slightly less.
Marble – Quartz is much more durable than natural marble and requires no sealing. Marble stains easily and must be sealed regularly.
Laminate – Laminate counters are inexpensive but do not have the elegance of real stone. Quartz will last for decades longer with proper care.
Butcher Block – Butcher block offers a classic look but requires intensive maintenance with regular sealing. Quartz is extremely low maintenance.
Concrete – Concrete counters can develop cracks and stains over time. Quartz is engineered to be non-porous and crack-resistant for superior durability.
Soapstone – Soapstone is more prone to staining and etching from acids. It also requires yearly sealing. Quartz never needs sealing and provides better stain resistance.
How to Care for A&C Quartz Countertops
Caring for A&C quartz countertops is simple and easy. Just follow these tips to keep them looking like new:
- For everyday cleaning, use a soft cloth or sponge with mild soap and warm water. Avoid abrasive cleaners or pads.
- Immediately wipe up spills, especially oils, wine or fruits/citrus juices. Acidic substances can potentially etch the surface given time.
- Use a cutting board rather than cutting directly on the quartz to prevent dulling over time.
- Avoid exposing the surface to strong chemicals like paint removers, oven cleaners or drain openers.
- Prevent damage from heat by using trivets or hot pads. Although quartz withstands heat, prolonged direct exposure could cause cracks.
- Re-seal seams every 1-2 years using a color-matched caulk to prevent moisture penetration.
With regular cleaning and caution around chemicals, A&C quartz countertops will maintain their pristine beauty for decades before needing replacement. No intensive maintenance or re-polishing required!
How to Buy A&C Quartz Countertops
Ready to invest in A&C quartz counters for your kitchen or bath? Here is a step-by-step guide to purchasing:
1. Find a Supplier
Search online for “A&C quartz countertops near me” or similar to find suppliers in your area. Be sure they are an authorized A&C dealer so you get the full manufacturer warranty.
2. Choose a Color
Browse the many colors and patterns available. Order a sample kit or visit a showroom to view options in person.
3. Measure Your Space
Measure your existing countertops or Cabinetry. Discuss sizing needs with your supplier and have them develop a template.
4. Select Edge Profile
The edge can be finished with different profiles like bullnose or ogee. This customizes the look and feel.
5. Place the Order
Provide all specifications to your supplier including color, edge details, number of cutouts needed, and timeline.
6. Schedule Installation
Your A&C quartz fabricator will schedule a convenient time for templating then installation once the slabs are cut.
7. Care for Your Investment
Follow the care recommendations provided to keep your counters looking flawless. Enjoy your beautiful new A&C quartz countertops for decades to come!
Frequently Asked Questions
Many homeowners have questions when researching A&C quartz counters. Here are answers to some of the most common FAQs:
Is A&C quartz more expensive than granite?
In most cases, A&C quartz costs less than natural granite. The price per square foot can range from $40-$100 based on color and pattern, while granite ranges from $80-$150 per square foot installed.
What thickness should I choose?
The standard 2 cm thickness works well for most applications. Go for 3 cm thickness for sinks, stovetops or other areas that need extra durability.
How is quartz different than solid surface counters like Corian®?
Quartz contains over 90% ground quartz making it much more durable than solid surface materials that are purely acrylic/polyester resin. Quartz resists scratches, heat and stains much better.
Can you cut directly on A&C quartz counters?
It’s best to avoid cutting directly on quartz to prevent dulling the surface over time. Always use a cutting board instead.
Does quartz need to be re-polished over time?
Unlike granite, marble or travertine, quartz never requires re-polishing or sealing. The durable non-porous surface maintains its finish for life with proper care.
Is quartz susceptible to damage from hot pans?
Quartz hold up well to brief contact with hot pans. However, prolonged direct heat exposure can potentially cause damage. Always use trivets or hot pads.
Can you have an undermount sink with quartz counters?
Yes, undermount sinks are a very popular choice with A&C quartz installation. The material is non-porous and water resistant, making it ideal for undermount sinks.
Conclusion
With its extreme durability, low maintenance needs, and wide selection of colors and patterns, it’s easy to see why A&C quartz countertops are one of the most popular choices for today’s homes. This high-performance engineered stone delivers stunning beauty that lasts.
Hopefully this guide provided a helpful overview of the benefits, color options, costs and care for A&C quartz counters. Visit an authorized local supplier to view the beautiful designs first-hand. With proper installation and easy maintenance, you’re sure to enjoy your A&C quartz countertops for many years to come. They offer luxury, elegance and convenience perfect for even the busiest kitchens and baths.