When it comes to remodeling your kitchen, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing the right countertop. You’ve likely come across quartz, known for its beauty and durability and one of the most popular kitchen countertop materials.
But with so many grades and price points, how can you tell which one is the best for your kitchen? You want something that’s going to stand up to the wear and tear of daily life, look great, and still fit within your budget. With all the options available, this decision can quickly become overwhelming.
At JSB Home Solutions, we’ve helped countless homeowners in the greater Columbus area navigate these kinds of decisions with confidence. With 46 years of experience in the kitchen remodeling industry, we understand the importance of selecting the right countertop for your lifestyle and needs. While we don’t handle the countertop installation ourselves, we partner with the top suppliers in the area to ensure you get the best options for your kitchen remodel. By working directly with the countertop company, you save money and get unbiased guidance from us, so you can choose the countertop that’s right for your home, without any pressure.
By the end, you’ll know the different grades of quartz, what sets them apart, and how to choose the one that works best for your home. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents:
- What Are the Different Grades of Quartz for Kitchen Countertops?
- Low-Grade Quartz Countertops
- Mid-Grade Quartz Countertops
- High-Grade Quartz Countertops
- How Do Quartz Grades Impact Countertop Price?
- Countertop Cost by Quartz Grade
- Is High-Grade Quartz Worth the Investment for a Kitchen Countertop?
- What Should You Look for When Choosing Quartz for Your Kitchen Countertop?
- Frequently Asked Questions About Quartz Grades
What Are the Different Grades of Quartz for Kitchen Countertops?
Quartz is classified into different grades based on several key factors that affect both its quality and price. One of the primary considerations is the percentage of natural quartz crystals in the slab—the more quartz, the stronger and more durable the countertop.
Additionally, the type and amount of resin used to bind the quartz can influence the grade, with lower-grade quartz containing more resin and fillers, which can reduce its longevity. Another important factor is the consistency of color and pattern across the slab; higher-grade quartz offers more uniformity, while lower grades may have noticeable variations or imperfections. These elements combined determine whether quartz is considered low, mid, or high grade. To note, it can be difficult to tell which grade a slab of quartz falls into without careful visual inspection by an expert.
Low-Grade Quartz Countertops
Low-grade quartz, often referred to as "second choice" or “builder-grade,” includes a higher percentage of resin and fillers compared to pure quartz. This makes it more affordable but less durable.
Pros:
- An affordable option for budget-conscious homeowners
- Ideal for rental properties or temporary solutions
- Offers basic color and pattern choices
Cons:
- Less durable and more prone to chipping
- Fewer design options
- Thinner slabs (typically around 1 cm), which may require additional support during installation
Mid-Grade Quartz Countertops
Mid-grade quartz, also called "commercial-grade," offers a balance between affordability and quality, with a higher percentage of quartz crystals for improved strength and appearance.
Pros:
- Good durability for everyday kitchen use
- More color and pattern options than low-grade
- Thicker slabs (2 cm), providing better support and longevity
- Affordable for most homeowners
Cons:
- Not as luxurious or durable as high-grade options
- Limited in high-end designs and colors
High-Grade Quartz Countertops
High-grade quartz is the top-tier option, made with the highest concentration of natural quartz, offering exceptional strength, beauty, and long-lasting durability. It is also called "first choice quartz."
Pros:
- Superior durability and scratch resistance
- Wide range of premium colors and patterns
- Thick slabs (3 cm) that enhance longevity and aesthetic appeal
- Adds resale value to your home
Cons:
- Highest price point
- Heavier slabs may require more costly installation
How Do Quartz Grades Impact Countertop Price?
The grade of quartz significantly influences the cost of the countertop. Higher grades of quartz containing more pure quartz and less resin and filler have higher material prices. In addition, quartz grade can impact installation costs due to the thickness, weight, and handling requirements of higher-grade materials.
High-grade quartz is typically thicker and heavier, which makes it more challenging to cut, transport, and install, leading to higher labor costs. Additionally, more precise installation techniques may be required to handle premium quartz, increasing both time and expense compared to lower-grade options, which are lighter and easier to work with.
Countertop Cost by Quartz Grade
The average countertop space in a modern American kitchen is around 30 square feet, but this can vary depending on the kitchen's floor plan and size:
- Small Kitchens (under 150 square feet): Need 22 - 25 square feet of counter space
- Medium kitchens (150 - 350 square feet): Need 25 - 28 square feet of counter space
- Large kitchens (over 350 square feet): Need 29 - 35 square feet of counter space
On average, here’s what you can expect to pay per square foot based on the grade of quartz:
- Low-grade: $50-$70 per square foot
- Mid-grade: $70-$90 per square foot
- High-grade: $90-$150 per square foot
Is High-Grade Quartz Worth the Investment for a Kitchen Countertop?
High-grade quartz not only holds up better against heat from stoves and pots, scratches from knives, and chips from dropping heavy things, but it also offers a longer lifespan. Over time, it can pay for itself through reduced maintenance costs and the added value it brings to your home. If you plan on staying in your home long-term, premium quartz is definitely worth considering.
What Should You Look for When Choosing Quartz for Your Kitchen Countertop?
When choosing quartz for your kitchen countertops, it’s important to consider more than just appearance. Factors like thickness, color consistency, and the reputation of the manufacturer can significantly impact both the durability and overall quality of your countertop. The best place to find a manufacturer's reputation is by looking at their reviews from past customers. Let’s explore what you should keep in mind to ensure you’re making the best choice for your kitchen.
Countertop Thickness and Strength
Thicker quartz slabs (typically 2-3 cm) are more durable and resistant to damage. If you’re after a countertop that can handle heavy pots and frequent meal prep, opt for a thicker slab.
Countertop Color and Pattern Consistency
As the grade of quartz increases, so does the consistency of color and pattern throughout the slab. Lower-grade quartz may have more noticeable variations, while high-grade quartz offers a more uniform, polished appearance.
Warranty and Manufacturer Reputation
Higher-grade quartz often comes with longer warranties, which is a good indicator of its quality. When choosing quartz for your kitchen, consider the reputation of the manufacturer and the warranty they offer—this can give you peace of mind knowing you’re investing in a reliable product.
Frequently Asked Questions About Quartz Grades
Can Low-Grade Quartz Still Be Durable?
Yes, but it won’t offer the same level of scratch or impact resistance as higher grades. If durability is a top priority, consider upgrading to mid or high-grade quartz.
What Are the Visual Differences Between Quartz Grades?
Lower-grade quartz may have more inconsistencies in color and pattern, while high-grade quartz is known for its uniformity and luxurious appearance. The visual differences are challenging to see with an untrained eye.
How Do Quartz Grades Affect Maintenance Requirements?
Higher-grade quartz tends to be easier to maintain because it’s more resistant to stains and scratches. Lower-grade quartz may require more frequent upkeep to keep it looking its best although it still requires less maintenance than other countertop materials.
Which Grade of Quartz Is Best for Busy Kitchens?
If you have a busy kitchen with a lot of activity, mid or high-grade quartz will likely serve you best due to its durability and resistance to wear and tear.
How to Choose the Right Grade of Quartz for Your Kitchen Remodel?
Choosing the right grade of quartz for your kitchen doesn’t have to feel like a gamble. Whether you’re worried about durability, price, or visual appeal, understanding the differences between low, mid, and high-grade quartz gives you the clarity to make the right decision for your home.
If you want the benefits of quartz but also want to be mindful of your expenses, you can stay towards the lower end of quartz prices by choosing a low-grade quartz.
If you want your countertops to offer as much as they possibly can in durability, appearance, and low maintenance, high-grade quartz would be a great fit for your goals.
Now that you know the key differences, it’s time to take the next steps in your kitchen remodel journey. Start with setting your budget by learning about the cost of replacing kitchen countertops and the overall cost of kitchen remodels. Then, you can start to look for the best kitchen remodeling contractors for your project.
When you start to interview contractors, download the Remodeling Company Comparison Worksheet below. It will give you questions that you should be asking of any contractor you are considering and you can also organize each company’s answers on the worksheet. JSB’s answers are included which will also help you see what kind of information a contractor should be willing and able to give you.
Ready to transform your kitchen with the perfect quartz countertop? Contact JSB Home Solutions today for expert advice and personalized recommendations—we’re here to help you every step of the way!
