When shopping for quartz countertops, you may come across different grades of quartz. But what do they mean, and how do they affect quality and price? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the three grades of quartz, their features, and which one is best for your home.
If you’re in Little Rock, Sherwood, Maumelle, North Little Rock, Pine Bluff, Benton, Bryant, Hot Springs, Searcy, Conway, Jacksonville, Cabot, and Alexander, this guide will help you choose the perfect quartz countertops for your kitchen or bathroom. ✅
1. What Are the Three Grades of Quartz? 📊
Quartz countertops are categorized into three grades based on purity, durability, and appearance:
1. First Choice Quartz (Premium-Grade) 🏆
- Highest quality quartz with 95%+ pure quartz content.
- Consistent patterns and luxurious finishes.
- Extremely durable, stain-resistant, and scratch-resistant.
- Premium brands like Cambria, Caesarstone, and Silestone fall under this category.
2. Commercial-Grade Quartz (Mid-Range) 💰
- Contains 85-95% quartz with more resin and fillers.
- Slight color variations and minor imperfections.
- Still durable but may not be as resistant to heat and stains as premium quartz.
- More affordable than first-choice quartz but still a great option for homes.
3. Second Choice Quartz (Low-Grade) 🔻
- Less than 85% quartz, with more resin and synthetic fillers.
- More noticeable imperfections, inconsistent patterns, and weaker durability.
- May discolor over time, especially under direct sunlight.
- Most budget-friendly option but not ideal for long-term investment.
🔹 Verdict: If you want a countertop that adds home value and lasts for decades, go for first-choice quartz! 🏡
2. Price Comparison: First Choice vs. Commercial vs. Second Choice Quartz 💰
| Quartz Grade | Price Per Square Foot (Installed) |
| First Choice | $80 – $150+ |
| Commercial-Grade | $60 – $100 |
| Second Choice | $30 – $60 |
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re flipping a home or on a budget, commercial-grade quartz is a great middle-ground option! ✅
3. Which Grade of Quartz Is Best for Your Home? 🤔
Choose First-Choice Quartz If:
✅ You want luxury, durability, and long-term value.
✅ You need a countertop that is highly resistant to stains and scratches.
✅ You prefer seamless, consistent patterns with a high-end finish.
Choose Commercial-Grade Quartz If:
✅ You want a balance between affordability and quality.
✅ You’re remodeling a home and need durable but cost-effective countertops.
✅ You don’t mind minor variations in pattern and texture.
Choose Second-Choice Quartz If:
✅ You’re on a tight budget and need an affordable option.
✅ You’re installing quartz in a low-traffic area.
✅ You plan to replace countertops within a few years.
4. Durability & Maintenance: How Each Grade Holds Up Over Time ⏳
First-Choice Quartz:
- Lifespan: 25-50+ years. ✅
- Stain & Scratch Resistance: Excellent. ✅
- Maintenance: Low (simple soap and water cleaning). ✅
Commercial-Grade Quartz:
- Lifespan: 15-25 years. ✅
- Stain & Scratch Resistance: Good, but not as high as first-choice quartz. ⚠️
- Maintenance: Moderate (clean spills quickly to avoid staining). ⚠️
Second-Choice Quartz:
- Lifespan: 5-15 years. ❌
- Stain & Scratch Resistance: Low (easier to scratch and stain). ❌
- Maintenance: High (requires extra care and cleaning). ❌
🔹 Winner: If you want countertops that last a lifetime, first-choice quartz is the way to go! 🏆
5. How to Spot Low-Quality Quartz Countertops 🚨
Before purchasing, check for these red flags:
❌ Excessive resin shine – Indicates low quartz content.
❌ Rough or inconsistent texture – Can lead to weak spots and cracks.
❌ Uneven color distribution – High-quality quartz has uniform patterns.
❌ No warranty offered – A lack of a manufacturer warranty is a major warning sign!
💡 Pro Tip: Always ask your supplier about the quartz content percentage and manufacturer warranty! ✅
6. Is Quartz Worth the Investment? 💰🏡
Quartz countertops add value to your home because they are:
✅ Low-maintenance – No sealing required. ✅ Highly durable – Resistant to heat, stains, and scratches. ✅ Visually appealing – Mimics the look of natural stone. ✅ Resistant to bacteria & mold – Great for kitchens and bathrooms.
🔹 Fact: Homes with quartz countertops sell for 3-5% more than those without! 📈
7. Get the Best Quartz Countertops in Arkansas! 🏡💎
✨ Looking for premium quartz countertops in Arkansas? Contact The Countertop Store today! ✨
📍 Address: 14844 Ingram Rd, North Little Rock, AR 72117
📞 Phone: 501-658-6511
💻 Website: Visit Us Online
8. FAQs About Quartz Grades ❓
1. What is the highest grade of quartz?
🏆 First-choice quartz (also called premium or luxury quartz) is the highest grade, offering 95%+ quartz content, seamless designs, and superior durability.
2. How do I know if my quartz is high-quality?
🔎 Look for consistent color, high quartz content, a smooth surface, and a manufacturer’s warranty.
3. Can second-choice quartz still look good?
✅ Yes, but it may have minor imperfections, uneven patterns, and a lower quartz content.
4. Does commercial-grade quartz last as long as first-choice quartz?
⏳ Not quite! Commercial-grade quartz typically lasts 15-25 years, whereas first-choice quartz can last 50+ years.
Why Choose The Countertop Store? 🏆
At The Countertop Store, we provide top-quality quartz countertops for homeowners in Little Rock, Sherwood, Maumelle, North Little Rock, Pine Bluff, Benton, Bryant, Hot Springs, Searcy, Conway, Jacksonville, Cabot, and Alexander.
🔹 Expert Installation – Seamless fitting for long-lasting results.
🔹 Premium Brands – Choose from Cambria, Silestone, Caesarstone, and more!
🔹 Local Showroom – Visit us in North Little Rock to explore our selection in person.
📞 Call today for a free consultation: 501-658-6511! Let’s make your dream kitchen a reality. 🍽️✨
