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Quartz Countertops

Are you looking for high-quality quartz countertops in Chicago? U&K Cabinets has you covered. As a premier countertops provider in the Chicago area, we offer an extensive selection of over 570 finishes and colors.

Conveniently serving Chicago and the surrounding areas, U&K Cabinets takes pride in being a local provider. We understand the needs of our community and strive to meet them with top-notch products and services.

At U&K Cabinets, we offer a free design service that includes comprehensive kitchen or bathroom design. Our expert designers are here to help you choose the perfect countertops to complement your interior design. Whether you’re looking for quartz kitchen countertops, white and black quartz countertops, or any other style, we have the perfect solution.

From sleek, modern designs to classic and elegant options, our selection ensures you will find the perfect match for your kitchen. Our team is dedicated to helping you choose the right countertops that enhance your space’s beauty and offer durability and functionality.

Contact U&K Cabinets today for a consultation and use our free design service. We are committed to providing high-quality products and dependable service, ensuring your satisfaction with every project. Explore our extensive collection of quartz countertops, colors, and patterns.

Q Quartz Soapstone Mist Quartz

Q Quartz calacatta Clara 1 Quartz

Q Quartz Calacatta Montage 1 Quartz

Q Quartz Calacatta Trento 1 Quartz

Quarry Stone Quartz

Q Quartz Calacatta trevi 2 Quartz

Queen Anne Quartz

Ramsey Quartz

Raven Quartz

Raw Concrete Quartz

Reading Quartz

Rocky Shores Quartz

Rolling Fog Quartz

Rolling Stone Quartz

Romano White Quartz

Rose Bay Quartz

Rosedale Quartz

Rosslyn Quartz

Roxwell Quartz

Royale Blanc Quartz

Ruby Skye Quartz

Rugged Concrete Quartz

Sabbianco Quartz

Saddle Brown Quartz

Safari Quartz

Sahara Beige Quartz

Sand Dune Quartz

Sanford Quartz

Saturn Quartz

Savoy Quartz

Scapolite Quartz

Seagrove Quartz

Serengeti Quartz

Serenity Quartz

Shadow Gray Quartz

Sharpham Quartz

Shell White Quartz

Sheffield Quartz

Shirebrook Quartz

Silhouette Quartz

Silver Lake Quartz

Simply White Quartz

Sintra Quartz

Skara Brae Quartz

Skye Quartz

Sleek Concrete Quartz

Smoked Pearl Quartz

Smoke Quartz

Smokey Quartz

Smoky Grey 1 Quartz

Snowden White Quartz

Snowdrift Quartz

Comprehensive Buying Guide for Choosing the Right Countertops

Are you intrigued by investing in quartz countertops but need clarification on what this material is and how it performs? Do you want to know how durable it is and how to maintain it? Is it a good idea to have quartz countertops in your kitchen, bathroom, and other similar spaces?

In this short guide, we will address all these questions and provide you with a comprehensive understanding of quartz countertops.

What is a Quartz Countertop?

Quartz countertops are engineered stone surfaces that combine natural quartz crystals with resin binders. This manufacturing process creates a durable, non-porous surface for kitchen and bathroom applications.

Overview of Quartz

Quartz is a naturally occurring mineral composed of silicon and oxygen. In the context of countertops, engineered quartz surfaces are created by binding quartz crystals with resins and pigments. This results in a material that is both strong and versatile, available in a wide range of colors and patterns.

Quartz is one of the hardest and most abundant minerals, making it an excellent choice for countertops due to its durability and low maintenance requirements.

Pros and Cons of Quartz

Pros:

Durability: Quartz countertops are highly resistant to scratches, chips, and stains, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
Low Maintenance: Unlike natural stones, quartz does not require sealing. Its non-porous surface makes cleaning easy and prevents the growth of bacteria.
Variety: Quartz countertops come in an extensive range of colors and patterns, allowing homeowners to find a design that perfectly matches their decor.
Consistency: Because quartz is engineered, it offers more uniformity in color and pattern than natural stones like granite or marble.

Cons:

Cost: Quartz countertops can be more expensive than other materials, such as laminate or tile.
Heat Sensitivity: Although quartz is heat-resistant, excessive heat can damage the resin binders. To protect the surface, use trivets or hot pads.
Weight: Quartz is heavier than other countertop materials, which may require additional structural support during installation.

Quartz VS. Granite Countertops – What to choose?

When choosing the perfect countertop material for your kitchen or bathroom, quartz and granite are two of the most popular options. Homeowners often weigh the differences between these materials because they are renowned for their durability, aesthetic appeal, and value.

	Quartz	Granite
Composition	Engineered stone made from 90-95% crushed natural quartz and 5-10% resin binders	Natural stone quarried directly from the earth, composed mainly of quartz and feldspar minerals.
Maintenance	Low maintenance. Cleaning requires only mild soap and water.	Requires periodic sealing and more careful cleaning to maintain its appearance and prevent damage.
Durability	Highly durable and non-porous, making it resistant to stains, scratches, and bacteria. It does not require sealing.	Very durable but porous, so it needs regular sealing to prevent stains and bacterial growth.
Appearance	Available in a wide range of colors and patterns due to its engineered nature. Consistent and uniform in appearance.	Offers a unique, natural look with varying patterns and colors. Each slab is one-of-a-kind.

Quartz is moderately heat-resistant, but excessive heat can damage the resin binders. It is recommended to use trivets or hot pads. Granite countertops are highly heat-resistant and can withstand hot pots and pans without damage.

Unlike granite, which is difficult to find in light, uniform shades, quartz has beautiful shades in pure white, beige, and dark tones for luxurious interiors. The shades range from solid colors and marble-like appearances to slabs with a shiny gloss.

Generally, quartz is more expensive than granite, but prices can vary depending on the brand and quality.

How Much Do Quartz Countertops Cost

Installing new quartz countertops can be more intricate than anticipated, and the expense of preparing your kitchen for installation might represent a significant portion of the overall cost.

Factors Influencing the Cost

Several factors can influence the cost of quartz countertops. The quality of the material is a significant factor, as quartz slabs come in various grades, ranging from low to high quality. Higher-quality slabs are more expensive due to their superior appearance, durability, and consistency.

The size of the countertop needed significantly affects the total cost. Larger countertops require more material, which increases the expense. Additionally, the complexity of the countertop design can add to the price.

Detailed cost breakdown

Quartz countertops typically cost between $50 and $200 per square foot, with most prices between $70 and $100.

Quartz is usually available in slabs measuring approximately 120 by 55 inches. The more slabs required to complete your countertops, the higher the total cost of the project will be.

The cost of quartz countertops generally falls into three categories: low, medium, and high quality.

Low-Grade Quartz ($30-$50)—This type is the least expensive and is often called second-choice quartz.
Middle-Grade Quartz ($50-$80): Also known as commercial-grade quartz, this level is somewhat more expensive than low-grade quartz but provides more versatile designs.
High-Grade Quartz: Known as first choice quartz, this is the most expensive option. It is the most durable and comes in many striking colors, designs, styles, and patterns.

Professional installation is crucial for ensuring the countertop is fitted correctly. Installation costs vary based on the job’s complexity and the installers’ rates.

The average cost of installing quartz countertops typically ranges from $80 to $150 per square foot. This price includes the material, labor, and finishing charges.

You should also include delivery, which is about $150 to $200.

If you need old countertop removal, it will cost $5 and $15 per square foot.

Additional labor involves various extra tasks that arise during the installation of quartz countertops. These tasks can add approximately $500 or more to the overall cost. Such additional work includes:

Cutting space for the sink.
Installing a new sink.
Removing the old sink.
Joining seams.
Smoothing the edges.

Moreover, it may also involve reinstalling faucets and power supply cables and cleaning and sweeping away all dust and debris.

Polishing

Once installed, polishing your quartz countertops provides a nice, shiny finish, typically costing between $4 to $6 per square foot. Although some homeowners prefer to apply a sealant, it is not necessary for quartz countertops as they are non-porous. Therefore, for cost-conscious homeowners, skipping the sealant can be a way to save money.

Backsplash Installation

Installing a quartz backsplash that matches the countertops will incur additional expenses during installation. This added cost should be considered when budgeting for your kitchen renovation.

Cost Comparison of Different Materials

When comparing quartz countertops to other materials like granite, marble, and laminate, quartz falls in the middle to high range in terms of cost. Laminate is usually the least expensive option, ranging from $10 to $40 per square foot, but it lacks quartz’s durability and aesthetic appeal.

Granite can be similarly priced to quartz, ranging from $40 to $100 per square foot, but requires more maintenance. Marble countertops are often more expensive, typically ranging from $50 to $150 per square foot, and requires more upkeep than quartz.

Getting the Best Value Within Your Budget

It’s essential to shop around to get the best value for your quartz countertops. Prices can vary significantly between suppliers, so obtaining quotes from multiple vendors can be beneficial. Opting for standard colors can also help decrease costs, as custom colors or rare patterns are significantly more expensive.

Simplifying the design by reducing the number of seams and opting for simpler edge treatments can lower both material and labor costs.

Finishes and Edge Profiles

Quartz countertops come in various finishes that enhance their aesthetic appeal and functionality. Choosing the right finish for your quartz countertops depends on several factors, including your kitchen’s style, lifestyle, and maintenance preferences.

Polished Finish

This is the most common finish for quartz countertops. Its glossy, reflective surface highlights the depth and color of the stone. It is best for modern and contemporary kitchens.

Features:

High sheen and smooth texture
Easy to clean and maintain
Enhances the stone’s natural patterns and colors

Honed Finish

This type of finish is also known as a matte or satin finish. It has a smooth surface but without a glossy shine.

Features:

Soft, understated look
More resistant to showing fingerprints and smudges
Requires slightly more maintenance to prevent staining

Leathered Finish:

A newer finish that gives the quartz a textured, slightly matte look, resembling leather. It is best for industrial or eclectic kitchens with unique tactile surfaces.

Features:

Textured surface that adds depth and character
More tactile feel
Hides fingerprints and smudges well

Edge Profiles

Edge profiles play a crucial role in defining the aesthetics and functionality of quartz countertops. A simple edge can create a modern, minimalist look, while a more ornate edge can add elegance and detail. Certain edge profiles can enhance safety by minimizing sharp edges, making the countertop more child-friendly.

Eased Edge – The eased edge, or straight edge, is a simple, clean edge with slightly rounded corners. This profile provides a subtle, modern look without drawing too much attention.

Beveled Edge – The beveled edge features a 45-degree angle cut along the top edge, creating a distinct and stylish look. It adds a touch of sophistication and can be customized with different bevel sizes. It is suitable for traditional, transitional, and modern kitchens.

Bullnose Edge – The bullnose edge is fully rounded, creating a smooth, curved profile. This edge is known for its soft, timeless look and provides a rounded, elegant finish. Due to its soft curves, it is great for family-friendly spaces.

Ogee Edge – The ogee edge features an S-shaped curve, offering a sophisticated and decorative profile. It adds a sense of luxury and is often used in high-end kitchens. It adds a high level of detail and elegance to the countertop. It is ideal for formal and traditional kitchens.

Kitchen countertops – Why quartz?

Selecting the right countertop for your kitchen involves more than just choosing a material and color. Matching the countertop style to your kitchen’s overall design is essential.

Quartz countertops pair beautifully with virtually any kitchen cabinet, making them versatile for various design styles. While granite is typically favored in traditional kitchen styles, quartz offers greater flexibility, fitting seamlessly into contemporary and timeless spaces.

Selecting the right color is the key to successfully matching quartz countertops with cabinets. Light-colored cabinets combined with quartz countertops can create an elegant and sophisticated look for your kitchen.

Consider pairing darker cabinets with black quartz countertops for a more modern aesthetic.

Traditional kitchens tend to have raised-panel cabinets, crown molding, and detailed woodwork. Marble, granite, or quartz with intricate veining or patterns can be good choices.

Kitchen styles

Modern kitchens are known for their sleek, clean lines, minimalist design, and use of industrial materials. They often feature flat-panel cabinets, integrated appliances, and minimal ornamentation. Countertop choices for that style include quartz, concrete, or stainless steel.

White, black, or gray will be solid colors, and eased or straight edges can be chosen for a clean, uncluttered look.

Farmhouse kitchens blend rustic charm with practical, homey elements. They often feature open shelving, farmhouse sinks, and vintage and modern elements.

You can choose butcher block, quartz that mimics natural stone, or soapstone with warm, earthy tones like white, beige, and gray. Bullnose or eased edges will give a soft, welcoming feel.

Designing Bathrooms with Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops have numerous advantages in bathrooms. Their exceptional durability and nonporous nature make them highly resistant to water, stains, germs, and bacteria.

Unlike natural stone, quartz is non-porous. This means it doesn’t absorb water, making it resistant to mold and mildew, common concerns in bathrooms. This feature also makes quartz countertops easy to clean and maintain, as they do not require sealing.

Quartz countertops come in various colors and patterns, allowing for various design possibilities. Whether you prefer a classic marble look or a modern, sleek appearance, a quartz option matches your style.

Quartz can be fabricated to include integrated sinks, providing a seamless and sleek look.

Standard edge profiles are usually included in the cost, but custom edges can add a unique touch to your bathroom design.

Colors and Patterns of Quartz Countertops for Kitchens

Choosing the right color for your kitchen countertops is essential as it sets the tone for the entire space. When selecting your countertop, it’s crucial to consider the overall aesthetic of your space. For modern or contemporary designs, quartz in solid white or gray is popular due to its sleek and clean look. In contrast, rustic or country-style areas benefit from warmer tones and natural patterns that provide a sense of movement.

Traditional or farmhouse kitchens often look best with quartz miming wide-veined marble or classic soapstone.

When selecting a kitchen countertop, it’s essential to consider the prominent colors in the space, such as the walls, cabinets, and appliances.

Popular Kitchen Quartz Countertop Colors

White Quartz Countertops: White quartz countertops are a classic choice that can create a clean, bright, and airy feel in your kitchen. They are incredibly versatile.

Black Quartz Countertops: Black quartz countertops add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any kitchen. They provide a striking contrast when paired with light-colored cabinets and walls.

Grey Quartz Countertops: Grey is the new neutral in interior design, offering a subtle yet stylish option for kitchen countertops.

Bold Hues: Quartz countertops come in bold colors, such as deep blues, rich greens, and vibrant reds, for those looking to make a statement.

Tip: Future flexibility is another crucial aspect to consider when selecting a countertop color. If you plan to update your kitchen down the line, changing the color of your walls and cabinets is much simpler than replacing your countertop.

Patterns and Veining

Calacatta Gold Quartz: Calacatta Gold Quartz is known for its luxurious appearance, featuring bold, wide veining in gold and grey tones against a pristine white background.

Calacatta Quartz: Similar to Calacatta Gold, Calacatta Quartz offers dramatic veining but focuses more on grey and black veins. This pattern is perfect for those who love the look of natural stone.

Vintage Pearl: Vintage Pearl Quartz features subtle, shimmering patterns that give a soft, elegant look. This pattern is ideal for adding a touch of understated glamour to your kitchen.

Snow Flurry: Snow Flurry Quartz is characterized by its light background with delicate, intricate veining that resembles snowflakes. This pattern brings your kitchen a fresh, clean, and crisp feel.

Simply White: Simply White Quartz offers a solid white surface perfect for minimalist and contemporary kitchen designs. It provides a clean and bright look, making it an excellent choice for small kitchens with a sense of openness and space.

Corian Quartz: Corian Quartz is available in various colors and patterns, from solid hues to intricate veining. It is known for its durability and versatility, making it a popular choice for residential and commercial kitchens.

Cambria Brittanicca: Cambria Brittanicca Quartz features bold, flowing veining in grey and white, creating a striking visual impact. This pattern is perfect for making a statement in your kitchen.

Blue Quartz Countertops: Blue Quartz Countertops are an excellent choice for adding color and personality to your kitchen. They come in shades from deep navy to lighter, more vibrant blues.

How To Maintain Quartz Countertops?

A significant advantage of quartz countertops is their incredibly low maintenance. Unlike concrete, granite, and marble countertops that need to be sealed and polished regularly, quartz countertops do not require such care. Quartz is naturally non-porous, eliminating the need for sealing or polishing.

Additionally, the surface can be easily cleaned with warm water and a soft sponge or cloth, reducing the necessity for harsh chemical cleaners.

Quartz countertops are known for their durability and low maintenance. Here’s how to care for your quartz countertops:

Wipe down your countertops daily with a soft cloth and a mild dish soap solution.
Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads that can dull the surface.

Tip: Although quartz is heat-resistant, it’s best to use trivets or hot pads to protect the surface from hot pots and pans and prevent potential damage.

Daily Cleaning Tips and Recommended Products

Daily Cleaning:
- Use a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and mild dish soap.
- Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or abrasive cleaning agents, which can damage the surface.
Recommended Products:
- Mild Dish Soap: A simple dish soap and water solution is effective for daily cleaning.
- Glass Cleaner: For a streak-free shine, you can use a glass cleaner sparingly.
- Non-Abrasive Cleaners: Brands like Method, Simple Green, or StoneTech offer pH-neutral cleaners specifically designed for stone surfaces.

Tip 1: To prevent stains, immediately wipe up spills from acidic substances like wine, coffee, or vinegar. Avoid cutting directly on the countertop to prevent scratches and preserve the surface.

Tip 2: The non-porous surface of quartz countertops is more sanitary compared to other natural stone options, such as granite or marble. However, it is still advisable to sanitize your countertops regularly. You can use a 70% isopropyl alcohol cleaner or a Lysol disinfectant spray to sanitize your surfaces and eliminate any bacteria that may be present on your quartz countertops.

Environmental and Health Considerations

Quartz countertops are composed of natural minerals and are safe for human use. This material contains no hazardous chemicals, making it ideal for food preparation. Quartz countertops also do not present any continuous health risks.

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can harm indoor air quality and human health. Quartz countertops are known for emitting low levels of VOCs.

Unlike some natural stones, quartz countertops do not require regular sealing. Many sealants used for natural stone can emit harmful chemicals; by avoiding the need for these, quartz countertops help maintain better indoor air quality.

Features

Non-Porous

Because quartz has no pores, liquids like wine, coffee, or oils cannot seep into the countertop, making it highly resistant to staining.

Environment-Friendly

Eco-friendly countertops are often made from sustainable materials such as recycled glass, reclaimed wood, or bamboo. These materials reduce the demand for new resources and minimize environmental impact.

Durability

Quartz’s durability means fewer replacements and repairs, reducing exposure to dust and particles that can be released during these processes. Over time, this contributes to a healthier living space.

Impeccable Strength

Quartz countertops are engineered stone products of approximately 90-95% natural quartz crystals combined with resins, pigments, and other materials. This high quartz content contributes to the material’s inherent hardness and durability.

Easy cleaning

Quartz’s non-porous nature makes it easy to clean and maintain. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water keeps the surface free of germs and bacteria.

Heat resistant

Although quartz is not entirely impervious to heat, it is more heat-resistant than many other countertop materials. This makes it suitable for kitchen environments where hot pots and pans are frequently used.

Our Clients Usually Ask

How Long Do Quartz Countertops Last?

Quartz has maintained its popularity over the years thanks to its exceptional durability, scratch resistance, and, most importantly, its longevity. It will last a lifetime.

How Much is a Quartz Slab?

The cost of a quartz slab can vary widely depending on the brand, quality, color, and thickness. You can expect to pay between $50 to $200 per square foot, including installation.

How Big Are Quartz Slabs?

Quartz is usually available in slabs measuring approximately 120 by 55 inches. The more slabs required to complete your countertops, the higher the total cost of the project will be.

Do You Need To Seal Quartz Countertops?

Quartz countertops do not require sealing due to their non-porous, stain-resistant, and durable characteristics.

How Thick is a Quartz Countertop?

The average or the most common thickness of quartz slabs is around 2cm or ¾” and 3cm ¼” approximately.

How to Clean Quartz Countertops?

Wipe down your countertops daily with a soft cloth and a mild dish soap solution. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads that can dull the surface. Use a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and mild dish soap.