White quartz countertops are a popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects. With their bright, crisp appearance and durability, it’s easy to see why. But with so many options on the market, how do you determine what is truly the best white quartz countertop? We’ll examine the pros and cons of various materials to help you make an informed decision.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes called engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The exact ratio can vary between brands, but high quality quartz typically contains over 90% natural quartz.
Some key advantages of quartz:
- Extremely durable and scratch resistant
- Requires very little maintenance
- Resists stains, acid, and heat
- Non-porous so does not require sealing
- Available in wide range of colors and patterns
- Can be fabricated into complex shapes
Compared to natural stone like marble, quartz offers superior durability and stain resistance. And unlike solid surfacing materials like Corian, quartz offers an attractive, natural-looking stone pattern. This combination of performance and aesthetics is what makes quartz an excellent choice for countertops.
Factors to Consider for White Quartz
When evaluating the many white quartz options for your home, keep the following factors in mind:
Aesthetics
- Color – Opt for a crisp, clean white without yellowish or grey undertones
- Pattern – Look for subtle veining and specks for visual interest
- Edge profiles – Straight modern profiles like eased or minimal bevel are best for white
- Backsplash pairing – Contrasting tones like gray bring out the white
Performance
- Stain resistance – Ensure lifetime warranty against stains
- Scratch resistance – Higher quartz content improves durability
- Heat tolerance – Opt for brands that allow hot pans
Brand Reputation
- Company history – Longer history provides more design experience
- Warranty – At least 15 years of warranty coverage
- Reviews – Check reviews and complaints for quality issues
Price
- Budget – Expect to pay $50-100 per square foot installed
- Sales – Look for warehouse/inventory sales for best deals
- Includes fabrication & installation – Account for these costs
Best White Quartz Brands
With an overview of what to look for, here are some of the top brands for white quartz countertops:
Caesarstone
One of the pioneers of engineered quartz, Caesarstone offers a bright, clean white with their Blanc Concrete color. Pros include excellent durability and heat resistance up to 450°F. The lifetime warranty provides peace of mind.
Cambria
For a striking white with faint gray marbling, Cambria’s Whitehall is a popular choice. Made in the USA, Cambria offers a limited lifetime warranty. Keep in mind occasional sealing is required.
MSI
This manufacturer provides quality at competitive prices. The Starlight White color has an attractive subtle sheen. MSI provides a 15 year warranty and excellent customer service.
Silestone
Known for innovation, Silestone was one of the first quartz brands in the 1980s. Blanco Zeus has a bright white background with sparse grey veining. Silestone offers a 25 year warranty.
Vicostone
For a whiter-than-white look, Vicostone Galaxy White is a top contender. Made from premium quartz, Vicostone offers a lifetime limited warranty and satisfies very high quality standards.
Key Takeaways
When selecting the best white quartz for your home, focus on finding the right balance of aesthetic appeal and outstanding performance within your budget. High quality materials from reputable brands generally cost more upfront but deliver better long term results. With routine care, a white quartz countertop will maintain its beauty for decades to come.
FAQs about White Quartz Countertops
Is white quartz porous?
No, quartz is non-porous so it does not require sealing or allow stains to seep in. This makes it very low maintenance compared to natural stone.
How durable is white quartz?
With a Mohs hardness of 7 out of 10, quartz is extremely durable and scratch resistant. The resin binders make quartz countertops even more durable than natural quartzite.
Does white quartz stain?
Quality white quartz is engineered to be stain resistant and stay white over time. However, some brands offer better stain protection than others, so check warranties.
Can you cut on white quartz?
Yes, white quartz stands up well to regular kitchen use thanks to its durability. Use a cutting board to protect the surface and avoid excessive pressure.
Does white quartz need to be sealed?
No, quartz does not require regular sealing like granite or marble. One of the appeals of quartz is its low maintenance needs.
Is white quartz expensive?
Quartz is generally more expensive than solid surfaces but less costly than natural stone. Expect to pay $50-100 per square foot installed.
Is white quartz good for bathrooms?
Yes, white quartz can be an excellent choice for bathroom vanity tops. The low maintenance requirements and moisture resistance make it ideal.
Conclusion
When you’re ready to choose a crisp, timeless white countertop, quartz is sure to impress. Focus on popular colors from reputable brands that offer strong warranties and stellar performance. With routine care, you can enjoy beautiful white quartz counters that stay looking like new for years to come. Consult fabricators to view slabs in person and get professional installation. With white quartz countertops, you truly can have it all – elegance, durability, and easy maintenance.