what are the different types of quartz countertops

Popular Types/Brands of Quartz Available

• Silestone. This is one of the most popular options for homeowners. ...
• Cambria. These quartz countertops are manufactured completely in the US by a family-owned company. ...
• Caesarstone. This company is one of the pioneers of quartz in the country, and is known for its efforts to be environmentally responsible.
• Viatera. ...
• Okite. ...
• Corian. ...
• Santa Margherita. ...
• HanStone. ...

Full Answer

What are the best brands of quartz countertop?

• Cambria
• Silestone
• Caesarstone
• LG Viatera
• Corian
• Pental
• Daltile
• Hanstone
• Wilsonart
• Vicostone

How to choose the perfect quartz countertop?

What is the best way to choose quartz countertops?

1. Deciding on the color, texture, or pattern: Quartz countertops come in various colors, making it simple to select the appropriate one for your kitchen countertops.
2. Find the best brand: There are many brands available in the. So how can you choose? ...
3. Select the right edge: Your countertops’ edge is what will make them stand out. ...

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Are there different brands of engineered quartz countertops?

There are many different brands of quartz countertops on the market. Caesarstone, Cambria, Pental, Okite, Silestone, Vicastone, Zodiac, MSI, LG, and many, many more. Unlike granite countertops, quartz countertop slabs have a brand name rather than just a color name.

How to choose between quartz or granite kitchen countertops?

Quartz tends to be more affordable, and it comes in a vast array of color choices because it’s basically a manmade product. Granite composite, on the other hand, although a little pricier, is indestructible as a countertop or sink because a large percent of the product is actual stone from the earth’s crust.

What are the different grades of quartz countertops?

When it comes to different grades of quartz, there is the first choice, commercial-grade, and second choice. These grades of quartz determine overall cost, durability, aesthetics and impact your home's overall value.

Is there a difference in quartz countertop quality?

All quartz countertops are not created equal. They may be manufactured by the same process and have similar characteristics, such as their water-resistant surfaces, heat resistance, and hardness. However, quartz slabs vary widely in price, depending on both the brand and the dealer or installer.

Is there a difference between brands of quartz?

The first and most obvious difference between quartz brands is the range of color offerings. Some brands can have a limited selection of only a couple dozen colors, while other brands can have well over a hundred different colors to choose for your new countertops.

What are the problems with quartz countertops?

So in addition to wondering do quartz countertops stain, you might be wondering about other problems with quartz countertops....Other possible problems with quartz countertops1 – Heat can damage. ... 2 – Sun can also damage. ... 3 – Seams might surprise. ... 4 – Visible caulk. ... 5 – Miter that doesn't fit perfectly.

Is Cambria better than other quartz?

If you're going by sheer material strength, though, Cambria quartz is stronger, as it is comprised of up to 93 percent quartz. Granite countertops average between 40-60 percent quartz, with other softer minerals added.

How can you tell good quality quartz?

The surface should be streaked with white and show naturally occurring irregularities. Glass made to look like quartz will be smoother and show few, if any, striations or streaks in its surface, with even color distribution that may be pleasing aesthetically but are not characteristic of genuine quartz.

What is the best quartz countertop to buy?

The Top 8 Quartz Countertop BrandsCaesarstone. With over 40 colors readily available in design stores nationwide, Caesarstone is the number one choice in engineered stone. ... Silestone. ... Cambria Quartz. ... LG Viatera. ... Corian Quartz. ... HanStone. ... MSI Q Quartz.

How do I choose a quartz countertop?

1:464:04Countertop Slab Quality: How to Pick the Right Quartz Slab - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo if you're expecting to see that color on your edge. That's what you want to look four is at theMoreSo if you're expecting to see that color on your edge. That's what you want to look four is at the side. Of. One other major difference with the quality countertop is the resin.

What is calacatta quartz?

Calacatta quartz is a material that looks just like Calacatta marble -a distinct marble type-. Calacatta quartz color can be defined as clean and bright white but it also has dramatic veining ranging from grey to gold.

Can you use Clorox wipes on quartz countertops?

Yes, you can use Clorox disinfecting wipes on Quartz countertops. The Clorox wipes are bleach-free, so they are safe for occasional use. However, since Clorox disinfecting wipes contain citric acid, you won't want to use them as your everyday cleaner.

Does lemon juice damage quartz?

Another acidic cleaner safe to use on quartz is lemon juice. When combined with other cleaning agents, it works wonders at eliminating the toughest stain of all: permanent marker. It'll even dissolve nail polish, though it's crucial to keep substances like these away from your counters in the first place.

Do quartz countertops yellow over time?

Your white quartz, and other lighter colored quartz, can turn yellow over time. This is usually due to the resins in the manufacturing process. They will react to salts and surfactants over time.

Does quartz Quality Matter?

There are differences in quartz countertop manufacturers. Different combinations of materials can produce higher or lower quality tops. However, even lesser quality quartz tops are still better than most countertop materials. A few of the most recognized and trusted makers include Silestone, Cambria and Caesarstone.

Why are some quartz countertops more expensive?

The difference in price points is due to the ratio and quality of quartz and resin used to make them, the manufacturing process, quality inspection, and warranty.

How do I choose a quartz countertop?

1:464:04Countertop Slab Quality: How to Pick the Right Quartz Slab - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo if you're expecting to see that color on your edge. That's what you want to look four is at theMoreSo if you're expecting to see that color on your edge. That's what you want to look four is at the side. Of. One other major difference with the quality countertop is the resin.

Is honed or polished quartz better?

Polished quartz hides smudges more easily because the oil on human skin is similarly shiny. On the matte surface of honed quartz, smudges easily stand out. A final noteworthy difference between honed and polished quartz appearance-wise is their ability to hide scratches and chips.

What is quartz used for?

Quartz is a material like granite or marble that is used to create kitchen countertops because of its availability, durability and lifespan. If you are considering quartz for your kitchen, here’s everything you need to know: Table of Contents [ hide]

What is quartz countertop?

If you’re looking to redo your kitchen or building a new kitchen in your home, you’re most likely going to look into quartz for the countertops. Quartz is a material like granite or marble ...

How long do countertops last?

The countertops can last for an extremely long time, even a lifetime, if you buy them from a trusted supplier. They also come in many different colors, meaning you can find one that suits your aesthetic needs.

How is quartz formed?

Quartz is an igneous rock, meaning that it was formed through cooling lava and magma over many, many years. Quartz is made up of oxygen and silicon atoms that bond together in a specific way making up SiO2, which is the scientific term for quartz.

Where are Viatera countertops made?

Viatera. Owned by LG, Viatera produces all their quartz countertops in Italy. They take their inspiration from nature and life; meaning all of their countertops come in 51 different earthy tones with a few exceptions that fit seamlessly into any kitchen design.

Is Caesarstone quartz sustainable?

They aim to be sustainable via practices such as recycling 97% of the water used during manufacturing. This does not take away from the quality of the quartz; Caesarstone provides high quality countertops in multiple colors, finishes and designs.

Is Corian quartz heat resistant?

Corian. Formerly known as Zodiaq, Corian is also a brand that takes inspiration from nature. Quartz itself is not heat resistant, but this company has engineered their countertops to withstand heat and be extremely durable.

What Are The Different Levels Of Quartz Countertops

Quartz is a great material for kitchen countertops, but did you know that there are different grades or levels of quartz countertops. To find out more about the grades of Silestone countertops, keep on reading.

Grades Of Quartz

There are 3 basic grades or levels of quartz countertops. These grades or levels are a measure of how strong and durable the material is, how their price differs from one another and how they can last long in comparison to one another. Let’s talk about the very first grade of quartz countertops and that is the First choice quartz.

What is the darkest quartz?

Piatto Black Quartz. Piatto Black Quartz is perhaps the darkest quartz stone ever. It’s perfect for those who want to add an element of mystery to their kitchens. In addition to that, it’s also sleek and classic. When pulled off well, it will make your countertop appear like an island.

What is the best quartz countertop for a kitchen?

The Calacatta Maximus is best suited for large and island-like kitchen countertops. If you decide to go with this quartz type, we advise you to have a waterfall finish—It will give it a dramatic look. It also grants you a lot of creative freedom.

What is coastal grey quartz?

Coastal grey quartz countertops can transform any kitchen into an art gallery— Its granite look is unique. The strokes of black and white only add more fuel to the fire. It’s perfect for those who want to make a statement with their kitchens (Try it out with white cabinetry to get the most out of the quartz design).

What is quartz countertop?

The quartz type suits those who prefer a mixture of everything. It’s dotted, grainy, and with dark veins. When polished well, the countertop looks like the moon’s surface. This type can fit in everywhere. Its texture is both light and dark at the same time. Most of the time, you’ll find it on commercial countertops.

What is the most popular quartz?

Atlantic Salt. For the longest time, the Atlantic Salt was the most popular quartz type. Straight off, you’ll see the white, black, and brown particles—It looks like the seashore. The quartz design has the power to breathe life into any monochrome kitchen, especially if the kitchen is all cream or all dark.

When was quartz discovered?

0. T hey discovered quartz in the 1970s. Since then, it has slowly risen to “the best choice for kitchen and bathroom countertops.”. Specifically, quartz is also known as “Engineered Stone.”.

Is vanilla noir quartz good for a kitchen?

The Vanilla Noir Quartz is, by all means, classy and sophisticated. Yes, it’s one of those “designer quartz” that can spice any kitchen or bathroom. It’s perfect for our brothers and sisters who are delighted by dark colours. Nevertheless, the countertop design will still stand out in a creamy light-themed room.

What is waterfall quartz?

A waterfall quartz kitchen island and matching dining table make this modern neutral kitchen by New York City-based Turek Design incredibly inviting. The countertops lining the back wall are quartz with a soft gray finish. Both the island and table are a pattern called White Attica by Caesarstone .

What is quartz countertop?

Quartz is an engineered material that is both heat- and stain-resistant making it a perfect choice for busy cooking spaces.

Can quartz countertops stain?

Concrete countertops are insanely popular these days, but just like natural stone, the material can stain easily if not properly sealed. Enter the quartz countertop manufacturer, Caesarstone. They engineered the quartz countertop in this cooking space designed by Holmes Hole Builders, a construction company out of Vineyard Haven, Massachusetts. The quartz countertop looks precisely like authentic concrete.

Does quartz need sealing?

Just as convenient, the engineered material does not require sealing like natural stone surfaces such as marble or granite. When it comes to looks, quartz countertops are available in a wide range of colors and even better, stone-like patterns that seriously look and feel like the real thing.

Who is Deirdre Sullivan?

Deirdre Sullivan is a feature writer who specializes in home improvement and interior design. Her career has taken her from an assistant editor at Elle magazine to a content creator for brands and publishers including Realtor.com, MTV Networks, and Bustle.

What percentage of quartz is used in countertops?

Other characteristics shared by all quartz stone brands include: • A minimum of 90% quartz content, which produces the distinctive appearance and much-vaunted durability of engineered quartz countertops; solid surface countertops contain only 66% minerals.

What is silestone countertop?

Silestone is distinctive in the quartz countertop arena. Because it uses bold and vibrant colors for their design lines, many of which you will not find in natural tones. They have 142 color varieties with 15 types of edge profiles. You can also choose one with an option of three thicknesses and three textures.

What is quartz stone?

Quartz stone is a type of engineered stone. Many types of engineered stones are available, but the ones containing quartz are among the most popular. Quartz countertops can mimic the look of natural stones quite well, although with much more consistency than you would expect from naturally formed stones. However, they are almost natural stones in ...

When did Cambria quartz countertops start?

You may be surprised to learn that Cambria, one of the top quartz brands, was actually not into manufacturing at all, but in the dairy business. This Minnesota-based company started out in 1936 and became a major supplier of dairy product in the US. It only began manufacturing quartz countertops in 2000, when it acquired a license for the Bretonstone process.

Where is Caesarstone made?

Caesarstone comes out of Israel, founded more than three decades ago, and manufactured in two areas: the Kibbutz Sdot Yam and the Bar Lev Industrial Zone. It supplanted the native terrazzo tile industry, which was already becoming unpopular globally.

Why is granite considered a fad?

Designers considered it a “fad” when it first came out as an option when marble and granite counter tops were not available, mostly because it was manmade and quite expensive to boot. The early brands made a point of making their products look as much as natural stones as possible, which further enhanced its reputation as a novelty.

Where is Toncelli's company located?

Owner of the Breton Company located in Italy , Toncelli perfected the system of binding minerals with resins and pigments to create a highly durable, beautiful material for countertops and other building uses. The company licensed more than 50 companies globally to use this technology to produce their own products.

What is Silestone quartz?

Based in Almeria, Spain, Silestone is the flagship quartz brand of Italian company Cosentino. If Caesarstone is known for its natural stone-like appearance, Silestone's distinguishing factor is its vibrant solid colors. It's Life!, Stellar, Mythology, and Zen series offer bold, bright oranges, greens, reds, and blues that are not found with other brands.

What is quartz countertop?

Unlike marble or granite countertops, quartz ones are synthetic and consist of quartz chips or dust mixed with resin, which are plant- or synthetically-derived polymers that can mimic the look of natural materials. Though most of the countertop is comprised of quartz, up to 10% of the countertop may be resin.

Where is Caesarstone made?

Caesarstone. Formed in 1987, Caesarstone calls itself "the original quartz surface manufacturer.". A publicly-traded company headquartered in Israel, Caesarstone has a factory at the Kibbutz Sdot Yam and another in the Bar-Lev Industrial Zone.

What is Caesarstone known for?

Caesarstone is known for pushing the design envelope. Its Concetto Collection includes 10 surfaces that incorporate semi-precious stones such as agate, dumortierite, tiger's eye, and even petrified wood. Its Motivo Collection offers deep embossing in crocodile skin and lace textures.

What is LG Hausys?

Originally a division of South Korean company LG, which produces everything from electronics and chemicals to solar energy equipment, LG Hausys is well-known in the countertop industry for its HI-MACS acrylic solid surface product. LG Viatera has a total of 51 colors among three different collections.

What is Daltile tile?

Daltile, true to its name, is mostly a ceramic, porcelain, and glass tile company. With a modest roster of 34 designs, Daltile's ONE Quartz line represents cost savings that some of the larger brands do not offer.

What percentage of quartz is mineral?

Around 93 percent mineral content. The high degree of mineral content gives quartz its distinctive look and feel. By contrast, solid surface's 66 percent mineral and 33 percent polymer content lends a silky, soapy feeling to the material.

Different Grades of Quartz

When it comes to different grades of quartz, there is the first choice, commercial-grade, and second choice. These grades of quartz determine overall cost, durability, aesthetics and impact your home’s overall value.

Assessing the Quality of Quartz Countertops

If you know what to look for, several visual tell-tale signs can alert you to low-quality quartz. Take heed of the following when examining slabs you might buy.

How to Check the Quartz Quality on a Sample

It can be challenging discerning quartz quality with the naked eye. Below are some foolproof methods to ensure you select a decent grade of quartz.

Conclusion

Quartz is a popular countertop material due to its resilience, durability, and limited porosity when compared to other natural stones like granite or marble. Aside from these qualities, quartz requires almost zero maintenance and comes in an astonishing array of colors and varieties.

What is the most popular quartz countertop?

Silestone. One of the most popular brands in quartz countertops among homeowners and designers, Silestone is available in over 60 colors and styles. It is available through your kitchen design firm as well as in design centers around the country. 3.

What is MSI Q Quartz?

MSI Q Quartz. MS International (MSI) was founded in 1975 and is a premium surface provider for residential and commercial applications. MSI’s line of Q Premium Natural Quartz comes in dozens of elegant scratch, heat, and stain-resistant styles and it’s backed by a lifetime residential warranty. 8.

What is the name of the company that makes quartz?

Polarstone. Polarstone has been a leading company in the manufactured quartz industry since it released the first accurate Calacatta marble design quartz in 2014. It was the result of several years of development with the goal of creating the finest manufactured representation of natural marble on the market.

What is the best engineered stone?

1. Caesarstone. With over 40 colors readily available in design stores nationwide, Caesarstone is the number one choice in engineered stone. It comes in a wide variety of styles from more traditional looks like marble, to some contemporary and daring textures.

Is quartz more scratch resistant than natural stone?

Quartz is also a bit more flexible than natural stone and is much more scratch and chip resistant. However, unlike natural stone, quartz is not heat resistant, so you'll need to use a trivet before you place hot pots or pans on the counter. Quartz countertops are remarkably consistent among the various manufacturers.

Where is Hanstone quartz made?

HanStone. HanStone Quartz is manufactured in North America. With six times the durability of granite its a countertop material that is ideal for aspiring chefs and those families that spend a lot of time in the kitchen.

Where is Viatera made?

The Viatera line is created in Italy by LG and is available in 50 earthy colors. With a wide range of colors from “Snow Storm” to “Absolute Night” you're sure to find the perfect color for your new kitchen! 5. Corian Quartz.

What is a half bullnose edge?

Half Bullnose Edge. The Half Bullnose edge has a slight curve on the upper portion of the countertop that leads down to a straight lower portion. Much like the Half Bevel edge, this will allow water to run off the countertop while protecting your cabinets below.

What is a standard edge for quartz?

Standard edges are very common for quartz countertops, and stone countertops in general. The following edge profiles are your best options when it comes to selecting a standard edge for your quartz countertop. Straight Edge. The straight edge is a square edge that is rounded ever so slightly to prevent damage to the countertop or injuries.

What is laminate edge?

Laminated edges essentially combine the elements of two separate edges into one. If you are looking for an edge that will make your countertop appear thicker, laminate edges will be a great choice for you. This section highlights some of the best laminated edges. Mitered Edge.

What is a Dupont edge?

The Dupont edge features a 90-degree angle at the top that works its way down into a rounded edge at the bottom. It is a bolder alternative to the also-stylish Ogee edge. A Dupont edge will look terrific on any countertop. Double Bullnose Edge. The Double Bullnose edge is a combination of two rounded Bullnose edges.

What is a chiseled edge?

If you want an edge profile that will work well with a rustic and natural style, a Chiseled edge can be the perfect option for you. This edge profile is not smoothed or rounded, giving the appearance that your surface is left in its natural state, even with an engineered stone like quartz.

Is quartz a good countertop?

Despite not being natural stone, quartz is a very popular choice among homeowners looking for new countertops. The surfaces can be found in virtually any color and style that you could want for your home. Beyond countertops, quartz is an excellent choice for other home surfaces, such as backsplashes.