Quartz Countertop Showrooms
Dedicated quartz countertop showrooms allow you to see a wide variety of styles, colors, and patterns up close. At these showrooms, slabs are displayed so you can visualize how a particular quartz will look as a finished countertop. Some things to look for at quartz showrooms include:
- Viewing full slab sizes to see how patterns and veins run across the entire piece. This helps you select the ideal section for your countertop layout.
- Seeing slabs from multiple manufacturers such as Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone. Compare colors, styles, and prices between brands.
- Feeling the smooth quartz surface and edge profiles. Edge styles like bullnose, bevel, and ogee can affect aesthetic and function.
- Discussing custom cutting, edging, and installation with knowledgeable sales staff. They can advise on options for your specific project.
- Checking availability of various quartz types and lead times. Rare or trending styles may require ordering well in advance.
Kitchen and Bath Showrooms
Kitchen and bath showrooms provide a helpful preview of how quartz countertops can look installed as part of an overall remodel. Advantages of viewing quartz here include:
- Seeing quartz countertops paired with cabinets, sinks, faucets, and backsplashes for a complete room concept.
- Observing quartz colors and patterns against real world tile, paint, and lighting selections.
- Getting design inspiration from fully built vignettes including edges, backsplashes, and decorative features.
- Discussing your project with designers who can recommend quartz styles to match your functional needs and aesthetic vision.
- Finding out about sale promotions and package deals available through kitchen and bath suppliers.
Home Improvement Stores
While big box home improvement stores may have limited quartz slab options onsite, they can be a good starting point for:
- Seeing a few popular brand name quartz styles and feeling surface textures first-hand.
- Speaking with kitchen design associates who can show you more slab photos, provide quotes, and order samples.
- Learning basics about quartz as a surface material, including qualities like non-porousness and lower maintenance needs.
- Getting accurate measurements of your existing countertops to estimate materials needed.
- Asking about coordination of countertop installation services. Some stores have affiliated fabrication and installation teams.
Online Galleries
If visiting showrooms isn’t convenient, most manufacturers and retailers provide online quartz photo galleries. When viewing these virtual options:
- Pay attention to how color, veining, and patterns may differ on a full slab versus a small sample chip.
- Look for consistency between batches if you plan to use the same quartz on multiple surfaces.
- Download or request free samples of any slabs you’re interested in for close up viewing.
- Ask about warranties, non-duplication policies, and other terms when purchasing quartz sight unseen.
- Get accurate measurements and countertop drawing to determine slab sizes and how seams will be placed.
Designer or Contractor Recommendations
Those who work frequently with quartz countertops can provide guidance:
- Interior designers can advise beautiful, functional options tailored to your unique space.
- General contractors and remodelers have experience with installation and performance.
- Fabricators know the ins and outs of working with quartz slabs and sourcing specific types.
Talk to professionals working on your project to get first-hand recommendations on which quartz brands, colors, and suppliers they trust. Their expertise can shortcut your decision making process.
Choosing the Right Slab
Whichever venue you use to browse quartz countertop offerings, be sure to:
- Bring measurements and floor plans to determine how many slabs you need.
- Look at slabs in different lighting to see color variations.
- Feel for smoothness and consistency across the surface.
- Ask about antimicrobial and heat resistance properties.
- Envision how your chosen slab will look once installed.
With an abundance of quartz choices available, taking the time to carefully view your options in person can lead you to the perfect countertop for your home. Use these tips when exploring where to look at quartz countertops.
Frequently Asked Questions about Where to Look at Quartz Countertops
What are the most popular places to view quartz countertops?
The best places to view quartz countertops are dedicated quartz showrooms, kitchen and bath showrooms, home improvement stores, online slab galleries, and by looking at selections made by your designer or contractor.
Should I look at quartz countertops in person or is online sufficient?
It’s best to view quartz countertops in person whenever possible. Seeing the full slab, colors, patterns and finish helps you make the most informed decision. Online viewing can supplement when in-person viewing isn’t feasible.
What should I look for when viewing quartz slabs?
When viewing quartz slabs, look at color consistency, pattern direction, surface smoothness, grain appearance, and how light impacts the look. Also look at available thicknesses and edge profiles. Compare different brands side-by-side.
How many quartz slabs will I need for my project?
The number of slabs depends on total square footage needed and dimensions of standard slabs, which are about 55-65 inches wide. Measure your existing countertops and discuss layout with a professional to determine how many full slabs to purchase.
Should I order extra slabs in case I make a mistake?
It’s a good idea to order one extra slab in case accidental damage occurs during fabrication or installation. However, professional measurers, fabricators, and installers can precisely plan cuts to avoid waste.
What questions should I ask when viewing quartz slabs?
Key questions include availability, lead times, pricing per square foot, warranties, return policies, manufacturer technical specs, and details on coordinating fabrication and installation. Also ask about heat and scratch resistance.
Conclusion
With quartz rising in popularity for its durability, style, and low maintenance, carefully selecting your slab is one of the most important choices in your remodel. Taking time to browse the many quartz options available at showrooms, home centers, and other venues will help you discover the perfect material for your countertops. Consider lead time, color consistency, patterns, warranties, fabrication, and installation coordination during the process. Viewing quartz slabs in person allows you to make the most informed decision for your home.