Quartz countertops are the modern way to take your kitchen countertops or bathroom vanity to the next level. The clean and elegant flow throughout the surface, which either mimics natural stone or has glass chips, will make any room shine. Another factor other than the beauty of the material is the durability. Quartz countertops are hermetically sealed during the manufacturing process. Quartz will withstand daily use and abuse while remaining easy to maintain and resisting stains and bacteria growth. Let’s take a look at the various levels of Quartz countertops and weigh the pros and cons of having this material as a kitchen countertop.

The level a Quartz counter or the grade of Quartz countertops is determined by the Quartz material used in the manufacturing process. The Quartz stone that is chosen to go into any particular batch will be classified in one of the following classifications;

Seconds:

This grade of Quartz will have numerous veins and could possibly include discolorations throughout the stone. The upside to this is that most of the defects are not visible once the Quartz is crushed and married with the resin.

Standard:

Also known as “commercial” grade, this the standard Quartz level. This level of Quartz will offer average color depth and quality.

First Quality:

This level utilizes the most premium Quartz. With this Quartz grade the countertops will offer rich colors and very minimum veins.

We carry a multitude of Quartz slabs ranging the spectrum of styles and looks. The three main brands we carry are Cambria Quartz, Zodiaq by DuPont and Cosmos Quartz.

Cambria:

Composed of 93% Quartz, resin and pigments. Cambria Quartz countertops are engineered to feature zero emissions and to be free of Radon.

Zodiaq:

Offered in a variety of colors and patterns. DuPont offers a 10-year limited manufacturer’s warranty. They utilize recycled material and a slab is usually 25% recycled materials.

Cosmos:

Cosmos offers a 10 year warranty on their Quartz surfaces. They also use the perfect blend of polymeric tech combined with Natural Quartz. The results are stunning and extremely durable while remaining easy to clean and maintain.

No matter the brand or level, Quartz kitchen countertops are stunning. The grade of the Quartz will strictly depend on your taste, style and budget. Quartz will give you the custom and unique kitchen you have always dreamt of. As mentioned in the beginning of this article, another great aspect of Quartz counters is that they will never have to be sealed. Natural stone countertops will need to be sealed for their protection. We offer a 25-year warrantied sealer. Learn more about our sealer for natural stone countertops.

Quartz Countertop Maintenance

No matter the brand, color or pattern, Quartz counters are a breeze to maintain. The vast majority of the time a sponge, hot water and elbow grease is all that is needed to clean up any spill that occurs on the countertop. As with any surface soaps are a no-no (or at least it is recommended not to use soap). Using any soap for cleaning can build up a film like residue and leave your surfaces dull and hazy.

Our best recommendation is to use a high quality stone cleaner, such as a Granite or Marble cleaner, to keep your counters clean. These cleaners not only clean your surfaces, they are mild enough as not to damage or discolor your countertops. As a bonus, these cleaners have an optical brightener to keep your quartz countertops shining brightly.

White Lace Quartz

Cobblestone Quartz

Saxony Quartz