Quartz countertops are one of the most popular options for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects today. Made from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments, quartz offers an attractive, durable, and low-maintenance surface. But not all quartz countertops are created equal when it comes to quality. So what should you look for in the best quality quartz countertop?
Factors That Determine Quartz Countertop Quality
There are several key factors that impact the overall quality and performance of a quartz countertop:
Quartz Content
- The quartz content refers to the percentage of ground quartz crystals in the material. Higher quartz content typically equates to increased durability and scratch resistance.
- The best quality quartz countertops have a quartz content of 90% or higher. This maximizes the natural strength and hardness of quartz.
- Lower quality quartz may have a quartz content as low as 70%. The remaining 30% is inexpensive polymer resins.
Resin Quality
- The resin binds the quartz particles together. Higher quality resins create a smoother, more seamless surface.
- Pure polyester and epoxy resins are best. cheaper acrylic resins can yellow over time.
- Resin should make up no more than 10% of the material’s overall content.
Pigment Quality
- Pigments add color and character to the countertop. Higher quality pigments last longer without fading.
- Pure natural mineral pigments resist discoloration better than synthetic pigments.
- A large color palette with consistent tone and graining indicates good pigmentation.
Thickness
- Thicker quartz counters are stronger and more durable. They resist cracks and damage from impacts.
- The best quartz countertops are 1.25 inches thick or more. Thinner options (0.75 inches) are prone to breaking.
Fabrication & Installation
- Precise cutting, seamless edges, tight joints, and smooth polishing determine the final fit, finish, and appearance.
- Experienced fabricators are critical for a high quality installation. Poor fabrication negates even the best materials.
How Quartz Countertop Brands Compare on Quality
With an overview of the critical quality factors, we can now evaluate some top national quartz brands:
Caesarstone
- Caesarstone has excellent brand recognition as a quartz pioneer. But some product lines have lower (70%) quartz content and weaker resins resulting in etching and scratching over time.
- Many popular designs still use abundant synthetic pigments. Thicknesses under 1 inch are common.
- Overall quality is mixed but generally lower than other premium brands. The name doesn’t always equate to better quartz.
Cambria
- Made in the USA, Cambria has excellent quality standards. Their quartz content averages 93% on most designs.
- Cambria uses high-quality polyester resins and natural mineral pigments. This resists yellowing and fading.
- All slabs are a full 1.25 inches thick. Their precision fabrication yields tight seams.
- Minor downsides are a smaller color selection and some subtle pattern repetition.
Silestone
- Silestone quality rivals that of Cambria but with more variety (over 90 designs). Quartz content meets or exceeds 90% across all colors.
- Proprietary Bio-Protection technology helps resist stains and etching. Epoxy resins provide durability.
- Silestone counters are consistently 1.25 inches thick. Attention to fabrication quality is also a priority.
- Vibrant colors come from high-quality pigments. The extended Warranty provides added peace of mind.
MSI Q Premium Natural Quartz
- MSI Q Premium Natural Quartz represents excellent value with quality nearing that of Cambria and Silestone.
- Quartz content is a minimum of 93% on all slabs. Thickness is a full 1.25 inches.
- MSI uses high-end pigments and resins. Their precision fabrication experience is evident in the finished product.
- With over 50 color options, an industry-leading 15-year commercial warranty, and lower cost, MSI Q Premium Natural Quartz is arguably the best overall quartz value today.
How to Evaluate Quartz Countertop Quality
When selecting a quartz countertop, keep the following tips in mind:
- Ask about quartz content – Don’t assume all quartz is created equal. Aim for 90% content or higher.
- Inspect resin quality – Higher quality resins prevent yellowing and etching. Look for brands using pure polyester or epoxy.
- Review the color palette – Lots of consistent colors with minimal pattern repetition indicate good pigment quality.
- Confirm thickness – Only consider full slabs 1.25 inches thick or more for best durability.
- Ask about fabrication – Precision cutting and installation practices impact the final product. An experienced fabricator is a must.
- Evaluate warranties – Better quartz brands offer 10-15 year or lifetime limited warranties. This provides some assurance of expected longevity.
Pros and Cons of Quartz Countertops
Like any material, quartz has both advantages and disadvantages:
Quartz Countertop Pros
- Extremely durable and scratch resistant surface
- Easy to keep clean and low maintenance
- Resists stains, etching, heat, and water damage
- Non-porous so does not require sealants
- Available in a wide range of colors and patterns
- Can mimic look of natural stone for less cost
- Seamless appearance when properly fabricated
- More consistent in color and finish than natural stone
Quartz Countertop Cons
- Not completely heat or scratch proof (but improved durability over natural stone and laminates)
- Can be prone to damage from heavy impacts
- Requires periodic re-polishing and sealant renewal to maintain luster
- Not quite as resistant to chips and cracks as granite
- Fewer unique color variations versus granite and marble
- Higher cost than laminate; more affordable than natural stone
Are Quartz Countertops the Best Choice?
Quartz provides an excellent combination of aesthetics, durability, and ease of maintenance. Proper selection of high quality quartz can lead to years of lasting beauty and enjoyment. But material selection should be based on each homeowner’s priorities.
Granite or marble may be best for those desiring a more unique, natural look. Laminates like Formica offer an very affordable option for budget-focused projects. There is no universally “best” material – each have trade-offs to consider.
For the majority of homeowners, a top quality quartz counter will provide an ideal intersection of beauty, durability, and value over time. Just be sure to carefully evaluate the quartz brand, composition, and warranty when choosing a fabricator. Your countertop investment will pay dividends for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Quartz Countertops
What makes a quartz countertop high quality?
The highest quality quartz countertops have over 90% ground quartz content, premium resins and pigments, 1.25 inch thickness, precision fabrication, and a strong warranty from a reputable brand. These factors maximize durability, appearance, and longevity.
Is quartz more durable than granite?
Quartz is generally more durable and lower maintenance than granite. Its non-porous composition resists etching, stains, and damage from heat and liquids. But no material is damage proof. Granite rates higher on hardness and scratch resistance.
How long do high quality quartz countertops last?
With proper care, a high quality quartz counter should last 15-25 years or more before needing replacement. Avoid excessive impact and abrasion to maximize lifespan. Annual sealing helps maintain the surface luster over time.
What are signs of low quality quartz?
Lower quartz content, synthetic pigments, thinner slab thickness, low-end resins leading to etching/yellowing, limited warranties, and improper fabrication are red flags for questionable quartz quality. Brand name alone doesn’t guarantee a better product.
Is quartz cost effective compared to other countertop materials?
Quartz counters offer an excellent balance of beauty, durability, and maintenance needs for the investment. Quartz costs more than laminate but less than premium natural stone. Overall cost effectiveness is very competitive with other popular countertop options.
Conclusion
When selected carefully based on quartz content, resins, pigments, thickness, warranty, and fabricator, a high quality quartz countertop will deliver lasting performance and satisfaction. Attention to the details that determine structural durability, stain resistance, color stability, and seamless installation is essential to getting the most from a quartz countertop investment. With their optimal blend of aesthetics, low maintenance, and durability, quartz countertops continue to be one of the most popular and cost-effective choices for today’s kitchens and bathrooms.