Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects in recent years. Known for their durability, low maintenance, and wide variety of colors and patterns, quartz delivers the look of natural stone without some of the hassles. This has led many homeowners to wonder – does IKEA, one of the world’s most popular retailers of affordable furniture and home goods, offer quartz countertops?
An Overview of Quartz Countertops
Before diving into what IKEA offers, let’s first look at what exactly quartz countertops are and what makes them an appealing choice:
- Composite material – Quartz countertops are engineered from roughly 90% ground natural quartz crystals combined with polymer resins and pigments. This combination results in a very hard, non-porous surface that stands up well to daily wear and tear.
- Appearance – The resins allow quartz to be formulated in a wide range of colors and patterns that resemble natural stone. The look can range from solid colors to granites, marbles, and sandstones. The patterns go all the way through the material.
- Low maintenance – Unlike natural stone, quartz does not need to be regularly sealed. The non-porous surface resists stains and makes the material very easy to clean and care for.
- Durability – With high hardness and density, quartz is very resistant to scratches, chips, cracks, and heat. Most brands offer warranties of 15 years or more.
- Customization – Quartz can be fabricated in a wide variety of countertop shapes, dimensions, edges, and thicknesses to suit each home’s needs.
With this overview of its benefits, it’s easy to see why quartz countertops have become a top choice for kitchen and bath remodeling projects. The key question is whether or not IKEA offers this popular material.
Availability of Quartz at IKEA
The simple answer is no, IKEA does not currently offer quartz countertops. The countertops available at IKEA are limited to:
- Laminate
- Wood/Bamboo
- Stainless Steel
- Ceramic Tile
- Concrete-look
- Recycled Glass
All of these materials have their own pros and cons when used as countertops. However, none offer quite the same benefits of durability, appearance, and ease of maintenance as engineered quartz.
IKEA’s countertop selection focuses on affordable options made from natural materials or recycled goods. Quartz countertops tend to cost more than materials like laminate. So the lack of quartz is likely a price point decision by IKEA.
Why IKEA May Not Offer Quartz (& Alternatives)
There are a few potential reasons why quartz countertops are not part of IKEA’s offerings:
Price – As mentioned, quartz tends to cost more than the countertop materials IKEA currently sells. The retailer likely wants to maintain its reputation for affordability.
Simplicity – IKEA keeps its product line relatively simple and streamlined. Carrying quartz slabs that require custom fabrication does not align with this approach. Materials like laminate can be mass produced and sold as ready-to-assemble.
Focus on other materials – IKEA has chosen to differentiate itself by using sustainable materials like bamboo. Offering quartz may distract from its brand identity.
Lack of fabrication capabilities – IKEA stores are not equipped for stone fabrication. Carrying quartz would require partnering with outside fabricators, whichIKEA may not be interested in doing.
Alternatives – IKEA’s countertops, while not quartz, offer a range of affordable options that appeal to different customers’ needs. Expanding into quartz may not be viewed as necessary.
Whatever the exact reasons, quartz does not appear to be part of IKEA’s plans in the near future. For customers seeking an affordable quartz option, teaming up an independent fabricator with IKEA’s cabinetry may be the best solution. Or choosing a prefabricated quartz product from a home improvement store.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does IKEA sell any type of quartz countertops?
No, as of 2023 IKEA does not offer quartz countertops in their kitchen collections. The countertop materials they currently sell include laminate, wood, bamboo, stainless steel, ceramic tile, concrete-look, and recycled glass.
What are the closest alternatives to quartz at IKEA?
For durability and ease of maintenance, laminate could be considered the closest option IKEA offers compared to quartz. While not as durable as quartz, laminate resists scratches, stains, and heat better than materials like wood. IKEA offers a wide variety of laminate patterns and colors.
Why doesn’t IKEA sell quartz?
IKEA likely does not offer quartz mainly due to cost and their focus on simple, streamlined products. As an engineered material, quartz countertops are more expensive than options like laminate. And quartz requires custom fabrication, which does not align with IKEA’s business model.
Can I still get IKEA cabinets with quartz countertops?
Yes, you have a couple options for pairing IKEA cabinetry with quartz countertops. You can purchase quartz slabs from a stone supplier and hire a fabricator to custom cut and install them on your IKEA cabinets. Or you can choose a prefabricated quartz product from home improvement stores to install yourself.
Does IKEA offer any countertops made from natural stone?
No, IKEA does not currently sell natural stone countertops such as granite, marble, or soapstone. All of their countertops are either engineered materials, porcelain, recycled glass, or wood. Natural stone would have a higher price point than IKEA’s current selection.
Conclusion
While quartz countertops continue to grow in popularity for their stylish durability, IKEA has yet to add them to their product selection. The Scandinavian retailer appears to be avoiding pricier engineered materials and custom fabrication processes in favor of simplicity and affordability. But for those with their heart set on pairing IKEA cabinetry with beautiful, low-maintenance quartz, there are still ways to achieve this look through alternate fabrication and installation methods. Soquartz may not be an option in the IKEA showroom, but it can still find its way into your IKEA kitchen if desired!