Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects in recent years. With their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance, it’s easy to see why quartz tops the list when it comes to countertop materials. But when paired with new cabinets, selecting the best quartz countertop to complement your cabinetry can be an important decision.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone countertops, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with polymer resins. The quartz provides strength and hardness, while resin allows color and pattern flexibility.
Here are some key facts about quartz:
- Made from approximately 90% ground quartz mixed with polymers and pigments
- Harder and more durable than natural stone
- Resists stains, scratches, heat, and moisture
- Non-porous so does not require sealing
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Available in wide range of colors and patterns
- Provides modern, stylish look
Unlike natural stone materials like granite, quartz is engineered so slabs have consistent patterning. This allows for a seamless look when installing countertops.
The resins also make quartz more flexible than natural stone. This means quartz counters can be fabricated into curved shapes and installed around corners. But for the most durable installation, straight slab designs are still best.
Pros and Cons of Quartz Countertops
Quartz offers many advantages as a countertop material:
Pros:
- Extremely durable and scratch resistant
- Resists stains, heat, and moisture
- Easy maintenance without sealing required
- Seamless look when patterns are aligned properly
- Available in wide range of colors and patterns
- Non-porous so doesn’t harbor bacteria
- More flexible for curved shapes than natural stone
Cons:
- More expensive than laminate countertops
- Can’t match natural stone’s unique veining
- May develop scratches or lose polish over time
- Requires professional fabrication and installation
- Some brands have limited color and style options
While durability and low maintenance are key selling points for quartz, it does come at a higher cost than options like laminate. There are also limits on replicating the distinct veining patterns found in natural stone slabs.
How to Choose the Best Quartz Countertops
When selecting quartz countertops, here are some tips to find the best option for your kitchen or bath:
Determine your budget
Quartz is generally priced between natural stone and solid surface materials, ranging $50-$100 per square foot installed. Measure your space and set a budget to narrow choices.
Choose a style
Quartz comes in different patterns like marble, concrete, stone, and solid colors. View large samples to see true variation. Neutral tones work well in most kitchens.
Consider your cabinets
Lighter cabinets pair well with both light and dark quartz. Dark cabinets look best with lighter quartz colors. Similar tones can blend together.
Complement other materials
Look at adjoining flooring, backsplashes, appliances etc. Contrasting tones can define separate spaces. Matching the tones pulls the whole space together.
Compare warranties
Many quartz brands offer 15-year or lifetime limited warranties. This covers manufacturing defects, but not damage from misuse.
Check thickness
Thicker 3cm slabs are the most durable option. 2cm works for smaller countertops but may be prone to cracking.
Evaluate quartz quality
Higher quality quartz has high purity and evenly distributed quartz crystals. This improves durability and appearance.
Choose an experienced installer
Quartz requires specialty tools for cutting and seamless joining. Ensure your fabricator has training from the manufacturer.
Once you select a quartz style and color, be sure to order a bit extra for backsplashes or design accents. Planning ahead helps achieve the full design vision.
Top Brands of Quartz Countertops
The leading quartz brands include Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone, followed by other popular brands like Viatera, Zodiaq, and DuPont. Here is an overview of some top options:
Caesarstone
One of the first engineered quartz brands, Caesarstone offers over 50 colors and styles. Their quartz is rated excellent for strength and durability. Caesarstone has a diverse style selection from marbled patterns to concrete finishes. Many collections are NSF certified as safe for food contact.
Cambria
Cambria is unique with its natural quartz manufacturing process. Their quartz contains a minimum of 45% pure natural quartz, exceeding most brands. Cambria has an extensive style palette with over 100 designs. Their high-end look works well for modern and transitional spaces.
Silestone
Silestone is known for technology innovations like bacteriostatic protection and stain resistance applied during manufacturing. They offer a 25 year transferable warranty. With over 90 options, Silestone collections range from minimalist concrete to bold multicolor.
Viatera
Viatera quartz contains 93% natural quartz for superior durability. Their signature mosaics collection features small quartz pieces for organic patterns. Viatera offers a limited palette with 15-20 neutral and bright options.
Zodiaq
Produced by DuPont, Zodiaq has a high-performance acrylic formula. Their patterns are more consistent than natural stone. Zodiaq offers limited colors but is highly scratch and chip resistant.
Other Brands
Quartz manufacturers like LG Viatera, Avanza, Quarella, Pokarna provide more selections. Smaller boutique brands allow for customized quartz slabs. Prices and warranties vary widely among different providers.
Doing your research helps narrow down the best quartz brand and color for your space and budget. Be sure to closely evaluate warranties, durability, and visual quality when comparing different manufacturers.
How to Match Quartz Countertops with Cabinets
Your cabinetry and countertops will likely be the two most visible elements in your kitchen or bathroom. Ensuring these large surfaces visually coordinate is key to a cohesive design. Here are some quartz and cabinet matching tips:
Combine neutral tones
Pairing soft beige or grey cabinets with quartz in lighter warm or cool neutrals is a safe bet. Contrasting undertones can add subtle interest. Just avoid matching exact colors.
Select quartz and cabinet finishes in the same color family
Rich blue cabinets could coordinate with a bold patterned blue quartz. But soft green cabinets would pair better with a light quartz in similar earthy hues.
Allow one surface to take the lead
With bold cabinet colors like navy or black, choose a crisp white or soft grey quartz to avoid clashing. For a statement quartz like vivid orange, keep cabinets more subtle.
Use quartz to bridge other finishes
Look at adjoining materials like flooring and backsplashes too. A neutral quartz can transition between stark white cabinets and warm wood flooring.
Complement undertones
Creamy white cabinets work with both warm and cool quartz depending on undertones of other materials. Greenish quartz could complement brass hardware while bluish quartz fits better with nickel or chrome.
Select quartz with contrasting movement
Pair busy granited quartz with simple slab cabinets for contrast. Or choose a solid quartz color to highlight detailed cabinet fronts.
Avoid matching patterns
Don’t match busy quartz and cabinet patterns. Keep secondary surfaces simple. For patterned cabinet glass doors, frame them with solid slab doors and solid quartz.
Use quartz backsplashes
Tying countertop and backsplash quartz together creates a seamless look. Contrasting tones define the separate spaces.
By considering these design principles, you can select the best coordinating quartz and cabinet combo that fits your personal style. Be sure to look at all components together in the space before finalizing your materials.
Best Quartz Colors for White Cabinets
White kitchen cabinets provide a light, airy feel and bright backdrop. From bright white to antique white, various shades of white cabinets work well with many colors of engineered quartz countertops. Here are some of the best quartz colors to pair with white cabinets:
Pure White
A crisp clean white quartz is the most seamless match for bright white cabinets.
Classic Gray
Medium gray quartz has a soothing vibe but enough contrast from stark white.
Beige Neutrals
Light camel, biscuit or cream quartz colors add warmth against cool white cabinets.
Off Whites
An almond white or oatmeal quartz counters bright white but in a softer way.
Blues and Greens
Pale sky blue, misty grey-blue, or sage quartz colors complement white cabinets.
Black
Bold, sleek black quartz makes a sophisticated style statement against white cabinetry.
Patterns
Busy quartz patterns with white background fit seamlessly into white kitchens.
Sticking with lighter quartz colors is the safest option against white cabinets. But dramatic dark counters can work with enough light surrounding surfaces. White veined quartz patterns also integrate nicely into monochromatic white kitchen designs.
Best Quartz Colors for Dark Cabinets
Dark cabinet colors like black, espresso, charcoal, and even navy have a bold, dramatic effect. Choosing the right quartz color to pair with darker cabinets is key. Here are some top options:
Pure White
Clean, bright white quartz contrasts nicely against dark cabinetry.
Light Grays
Soft, neutral grays offset deeper cabinet tones beautifully.
Creams
Warm cream quartz colors complement but don’t match dark cabinets.
Tans and Browns
Lighter natural quartz hues like sand, beige and taupe add variation.
Light Blues
Soft powder blue and sky blue quartz colors offset darker cabinets.
Glassy Quartz
Translucent quartz in icy light blues and grays glow against dark cabinetry.
The main strategy with dark cabinets is choosing a quartz color in the lighter range of the spectrum. Monochromatic tones can get too heavy. Bold pops of color also stand out well against a dark background.
Best Quartz Finishes by Cabinet Door Style
Beyond just color, the finish and texture of quartz impacts its look. Quartz finishes range from glossy polished sheens to matte and rough textures. Certain finishes pair best with different cabinet door styles.
Polished Quartz with Shaker Cabinets
The most common finish, polished quartz has a smooth, shiny, glass-like feel. This mirror-finish works well with flat shaker style cabinet doors to enhance light reflections.
Honed Quartz for Slab Cabinets
Honed quartz has a matte, suede-like finish. The softness creates a relaxing vibe and seamless look next to minimalist slab cabinet fronts.
Concrete Finish Quartz on Modern Cabinets
Concrete style quartz mimics poured concrete with more texture. The industrial look fits perfectly with modern slab or handleless cabinets.
Marble-look Quartz on Transitional Cabinets
Quartz engineered to mimic natural marble patterns coordinate nicely with simple transitional cabinet door designs featuring recessed paneling or framing.
Textured Quartz with Rustic Cabinets
Rough cut, textured quartz selections contrast beautifully against distressed, rustic cabinet finishes full of character.
Considering the finishes of your cabinetry and countertops together results in the most cohesive design. Be sure to view physical samples early in your selection process to fully visualize how colors and textures work together in your space.
Best Quartz Brands and Colors for Kitchen Cabinets
When evaluating the endless quartz options for kitchen countertops, it helps to break down recommendations by popular cabinet styles and colors. Here are some top quartz brands and colors for key kitchen cabinet looks:
For White Shaker Cabinets
- Cambria Brittanicca – Classic soft white with grey veining
- Caesarstone Piatra Grey – Subtle grey tones with patterns
- Silestone Blanco Zeus – Crisp clean white quartz
For Off-White Cabinets
- Cambria Torquay – Light tan and cream marbling
- Silestone Kensho – Sandy neutral with movement
- Viatera Aella – Warm almond white tone
For Gray Cabinets
- Quartzforms Nebula – Solid but soft gray color
- Caesarstone Raven – Dark dramatic charcoal gray
- Cambria Langdon – Neutral slate gray with matte finish
For Espresso Cabinets
- Silestone Blanco Maple – Creamy white and grey swirls
- Caesarstone Iconic White – Bright, pure white
- Cambria Bellingham – Quartz in a light and creamy oatmeal hue
For Navy Cabinets
- Zodiaq Cloud White – Crisp clean white quartz
- Silestone Caldera – Glassy neutral with grey tones
- Cambria Ella – Beautiful light aqua blue
For Black Cabinets
- Caesarstone Symphony Grey – Soft and elegant light gray
- Viatera Cirrus – White quartz with faint gray marbling
- Cambria Blackpool – Striking clean black quartz
This list just highlights a sampling of top options from leading brands. Visit showrooms to view different slabs and get design inspiration for your specific kitchen. There are endless combinations that could look amazing.
Cost Comparison of Quartz Brands
While quartz generally costs more than laminate countertops, there is still a range when comparing different manufacturers. Here is an overview of average installed costs per square foot among top national quartz brands:
- Caesarstone: $70-$100 per square foot
- Cambria: $80-$120 per square foot
- Silestone: $60-$90 per square foot
- Viatera: $70-$110 per square foot
- Zodiaq: $50-$80 per square foot
- Quartzforms: $40-$70 per square foot
- Vicostone: $50-$70 per square foot
The range in cost can depend on factors like:
- Brand popularity and recognition
- Unique colors and patterns
- Percentage of pure quartz content
- Quality of quartz processing
- Amount of custom fabrication required
- Complexity of installation/cutouts
- Regional labor costs
- Level of warranty provided
Generally higher priced brands like Cambria and Caesarstone use a higher purity and quality of raw quartz. Unique patterns and designs can also drive up costs. White quartz tends to be the most affordable option. Expect to pay 15-20% more for installation in high cost markets.
Are Quartz Countertops Worth the Cost?
At $50-$120 per square foot installed, quartz is one of the pricier countertop options next to natural stone. The key question is if quartz provides enough benefits to justify the higher cost compared to cheaper countertops like laminate.
There are many factors to consider when deciding if quartz is worth the investment:
Durability
Quartz resists scratches, stains, impact and heat much better than laminate or wood countertops. Properly installed, it can last years with minimal signs of wear.
Low Maintenance
Little ongoing maintenance is needed thanks to quartz’s non-porous surface that resists bacteria growth without sealing.
Appearance
Quartz mimics the high-end look of natural stone for a fraction of the price. Patterns and colors create a stylish, elegant aesthetic.
Resale Value
Upgraded countertops like quartz add value and appeal when selling a home. They also add enjoyment day to day.
Options
Dozens of color, finish and pattern options exist. Quartz offers much more flexibility than more limited laminate hues.
For most homeowners, the durability, ease of care and appearance benefits make quartz worth the investment over cheaper countertop alternatives, especially if planning to stay in the home long-term. Be sure to budget properly and select a top-quality quartz brand to maximize the value.
Best Thickness for Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are primarily fabricated in two standard thicknesses:
- 2cm (about 3/4 inch)
- 3cm (around 1 1/4 inches)
Here is an overview of each thickness option to consider:
2cm Thickness
- Lower cost option
- Good for smaller spaces like baths and laundry rooms
- Prone to cracks/damage with improper installation
- Avoid for heavy use kitchen areas
- Usually has plywood backing for support
3cm Thickness
- Most popular choice for kitchens
- Added durability for heavy use areas
- Minimal risk of cracking or damage
- Supports overhangs up to 10 inches
- Does not typically need plywood backing
While 2cm remains an option, most quartz manufacturers recommend choosing 3cm thickness for kitchen counters, islands, and any areas anticipating heavy usage. The minimal extra cost is worth it for reduced chance of damage or cracking long-term.
Only use 2cm quartz on small light-use surfaces like bathroom vanities, wet bars, or laundry counters. For high-traffic kitchen countertops, 3cm quartz is by far the best thickness for durability. This applies to all engineered stone brands. Be sure to follow manufacturer guidelines on appropriate thicknesses.
Features to Look for When Selecting Quartz
Beyond just color and pattern, there are a few key technical factors to evaluate when selecting an engineered quartz slab:
**Percentage of Pure Quartz **
Higher quartz content typically means better durability. Premium brands use upwards of 90% crushed quart