Quartz kitchen worktops have become one of the most popular choices for homeowners and designers alike, and it’s easy to see why. With a unique blend of elegance, durability, and low maintenance, quartz offers both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits. However, with a wide array of brands, colours, finishes, and prices on the market, buying quartz kitchen worktops can feel overwhelming.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know when buying quartz worktops so you can make an informed, confident decision that suits your style, needs, and budget.
What Is Quartz?
Quartz is an engineered stone made from a mixture of natural quartz crystals (usually around 90-95%) and resins, pigments, and polymers. This combination results in a surface that mimics the look of natural stone like granite or marble while offering superior consistency and strength.
Unlike natural stone, quartz is non-porous, meaning it doesn’t absorb liquids or harbour bacteria, making it ideal for busy kitchen environments.
Why Choose Quartz for Your Kitchen Worktop?
Before diving into what to look for, let’s touch on why quartz is such a popular choice:
- Durability: Scratch, stain, and heat resistant (within reason).
- Low Maintenance: No sealing required, easy to clean with mild soap and water.
- Variety: Available in a wide range of colours, patterns, and finishes.
- Hygienic: Non-porous surface prevents mould, mildew, and bacteria growth.
- Long-lasting: When properly cared for, quartz worktops can last decades.
Key Factors to Consider When Buying Quartz Worktops
1. Budget and Pricing
Quartz worktops range in price depending on the brand, design, and installation complexity. You can expect prices to start around £250 per square metre and go upwards of £700 or more.
What influences the price?
- Brand and manufacturer
- Design complexity and pattern
- Thickness of the slab (typically 20mm or 30mm)
- Custom cutouts (for sinks, hobs, etc.)
- Installation and fabrication fees
Tip: Always get multiple quotes and ensure they include everything—materials, delivery, and fitting.
2. Quality and Brand Reputation
Not all quartz is created equal. Some budget suppliers may use lower-quality resins or fewer quartz particles, which can affect durability and appearance.
Top quartz brands to look for include:
- Caesarstone
- Silestone by Cosentino
- Cambria
- Compac
- Samsung Radianz
Choosing a reputable brand ensures product consistency, quality control, and often better warranties.
3. Colour and Pattern Selection
Quartz offers a broad palette of colours and finishes:
- Solid colours (e.g., white, black, grey) for minimalistic aesthetics
- Marble-inspired veins for a luxurious look
- Speckled designs for a more traditional feel
- Textured or matte finishes for contemporary kitchens
When selecting a colour:
- Match or contrast with your cabinetry and flooring.
- Consider how lighting affects the colour appearance.
- Request samples and view them in your home before deciding.
4. Thickness and Edge Profiles
Quartz worktops are typically available in 20mm and 30mm thicknesses. Thicker worktops are more robust and provide a more premium look but also come at a higher cost.
Popular edge profiles include:
- Straight edge: Clean and modern
- Bevelled edge: Angled cut for a softer look
- Ogee edge: Traditional and decorative
- Bullnose: Rounded edge, ideal for family homes
Your edge choice can subtly influence the overall kitchen design and feel.
5. Finish Options
Quartz surfaces come in various finishes, each offering a distinct look and feel:
- Polished: High-gloss, reflective finish that enhances colour depth
- Honed: Matte finish with a soft, velvety texture
- Leathered/Textured: Subtle texture for a more organic appearance
While polished is most common, honed and textured finishes are increasingly popular in modern and rustic designs.
6. Stain, Heat, and Scratch Resistance
Quartz is naturally stain-resistant due to its non-porous surface. However, not all quartz is equally heat- or scratch-resistant. While it can handle occasional hot pans, it’s best to use trivets or heat pads to prevent thermal shock or discolouration.
Similarly, though quartz is scratch-resistant, it is not scratch-proof. Always use a chopping board rather than cutting directly on the surface.
7. Warranty and After-Sales Support
Check what kind of warranty the manufacturer or installer offers. A standard quartz warranty can range from 10 years to a limited lifetime, depending on the brand.
Make sure the warranty covers:
- Defects in materials or craftsmanship
- Fading, warping, or cracking
- Installation-related issues (if done by an approved fitter)
Also, ask about maintenance guidance and after-sales support in case of damage.
8. Installation and Fabrication
Installation is a crucial step that directly affects the appearance and performance of your quartz worktop. Choose a certified fabricator with experience in handling quartz materials.
Ask about:
- Turnaround times from template to installation
- Seam placement (especially for larger surfaces)
- Precision in cutouts for sinks, hobs, and taps
A poor installation can result in uneven surfaces, visible seams, and long-term issues.
9. Sustainability and Environmental Impact
If sustainability is important to you, look into the environmental practices of the brand. Some manufacturers use recycled quartz or eco-friendly resins. Others may have certifications like:
- NSF/ANSI 51 Certification (safe for food contact)
- Greenguard Certification (low chemical emissions)
- LEED credits for green building standards
Additionally, consider choosing local suppliers to reduce the carbon footprint associated with shipping heavy materials.
Maintenance Tips for Quartz Worktops
Quartz is one of the easiest worktop materials to maintain, but a few best practices can keep it looking new:
- Clean spills promptly with warm soapy water
- Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or abrasive scrubbers
- Use cutting boards to prevent surface scratches
- Place hot pots on trivets instead of directly on the surface
- Wipe down regularly to maintain shine and hygiene
Common Myths About Quartz
Myth 1: Quartz is 100% natural.
False. While quartz crystals are natural, the final product is engineered.
Myth 2: Quartz is indestructible.
No material is completely damage-proof. Quartz is durable, but it still needs care.
Myth 3: All quartz is the same.
Not true. The quality of resins, manufacturing, and consistency varies greatly by brand.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right quartz kitchen worktop involves more than just picking a pretty colour. By understanding the material, evaluating your needs, and comparing brands and options, you can make a smart investment that adds value, beauty, and functionality to your home.
Remember to:
- Set a clear budget
- Research trusted brands
- View physical samples
- Ask the right questions before committing
With the right approach, your quartz worktop can become the stunning centrepiece of your kitchen—built to handle everything from morning coffee spills to holiday feast preparations.
Need help comparing suppliers or creating a shortlist? Let us know—we’re here to help you find your perfect match.
