Your kitchen countertop is the most used surface in your home. It takes a beating while helping to create the look of the heart of your home. That is why quartz has become the go-to surface for homeowners, builders and interior designers across Kerala.
But not all quartz is the same. With lots of options in the market, a little homework can help you avoid costly regrets. Here are the 7 things to check before you buy, especially if you are shopping with Quartz Countertop Dealers in Kochi.
1. Assess the quality of the slab and its components
Engineered Quartz is about 90-93% natural quartz crystals, combined with resins and pigments. The ratio is important. In general, the higher the quartz concentration, the better the hardness, stain resistance and durability.
Ask your dealer about:
- Quartz-to-resin ratio
- Country of manufacture
- Whether the slab is made from certified raw materials
- Consistency of colour and pattern across the lab
A reliable dealer will share this information openly. If answers are vague, treat that as a warning sign.
2. Consider Thickness and Slab Size
Thicker countertops generally give a more premium look to a kitchen and can take up more stress. For the budget constrained or vertical (like back splash) applications thinner countertops can be used. Longer runs (platforms) or island countertops can benefit from larger slabs, as using smaller slabs can lead to an increased number of visible seams.
3. Think About Colour, Pattern and Finish
Quartz countertops come in a wide array of almost solid whites and greys to faux marble and even faux granite. Take a look at your current cabinetry and flooring. You don’t need to match, but you want to buy countertops that won’t clash with them. Pick a colour that will coordinate with the lighting you currently have in the kitchen. Some kitchen lighting can make certain shades of quartz look quite different than they really do.
Most polished surfaces are shiny and may have minor scratches. Matte surfaces help disguise fingerprints and have a more contemporary appeal.
Always make sure to see the complete slab when you’re considering countertops. If you just look at little samples you can’t be sure that you are picking a consistent design. To check out the premium countertops in Kochi the fastest option is to visit a showroom.
4. Resistance to Heat, Stain and Abrasion
Quartz is non-porous and resists stains of oils and liquids which are common in the Indian kitchen. It is also resistant to scratching.
Another one is heat. Quartz can handle the heat of conventional cooking but placing an extremely hot pressure cooker on the surface can destroy the resin. Always use a heat pad or trivet. As a general guideline, be careful to ask your dealer about the heat tolerance of the slab you are buying.
5. Understand the Total Cost, Not Just the Price per Square Foot
A low rate per square foot can be misleading. When comparing quotes, confirm what is included:
- Cutting and edge profiling
- Sink and hob cut-outs
- Transport and handling
- Installation labour
- Backsplash or skirting
- Surplus and waste materials
6. Plan for Professional Installation
An adequately done quartz job is good but can still have flaws. Poor seams and support can cause cracks and failure later on. To evaluate your options better, ask about the following:
- Will your dealers’ own team handle the installation?
- Will they take final measurements after the cabinets are done?
- How will seams be finished and colour-matched?
- How long do they expect the installation to take?
Look for the following when sourcing Quartz countertops in Kochi:
- Proper templating
- Neat edge-work, and
- Clean cuts
- Around sinks, hobs, and walls.
Due to the humid and monsoon circumstances of coastal Kerala, it is important to get a local installation with competence in properly sealing seams and edges.
7. Check the Dealer’s Reputation, Warranty and After-Sales Support
A good dealer is equally important as good material. Look for:
- A good track record of projects done, homes, and commercial buildings
- Photos of completed projects
- Verifiable references
- A good written warranty describing defects covered
- After-sales service for repairs, polishing and adjusting
In Kochi, some of the Quartz countertop dealers in Kochi will provide you with samples and give you a walkthrough on selecting the right quartz slab for your project. They will give you an estimate and stand behind their work. Quartz Surfaces offer a good range of products designed for use in your home.
Final Thoughts
The countertop is a long-term investment and choosing the right one will ensure it doesn’t become a long-term annoyance. When checking slabs, you will want to look at design, thickness, quality, durability, cost, and the potential dealers’ integrity. You’ll want to check for the right dealer by looking at how they present themselves and answering your questions. When building or renovating, don’t be in a rush and see slabs for yourself. The premium countertops should have all three and the right dealer will assist you in finding them.
FAQ
1. Which are the Best Quartz Countertop Dealers in Kochi?
A. Find the dealers who have strong experience, large inventory of slabs, clear prices, in-house installations and warranties and completed projects with client testimonials.
2. Granite vs Quartz for kitchens – Which is better?
A. Quartz is less porous and so more stain resistant, but less heat resistant. Quartz is also easier to clean. Both are great options to use for countertops and the better option is more of a personal preference and budget.
3. What is the Estimated Time for Quartz Countertop Installation in Kochi?
A. Again, this relates to the size and intricacy of your kitchen. Fabrication & Installation 2-3 days from final measurements. Your dealer can provide you more precise information.
4. Is it okay to put Hot Pans on Quartz Countertops?
A. Quartz countertops can’t take the heat. It’s best to use a trivet.
5. What is the ideal thickness of kitchen countertops?
A. The standard thickness for kitchen countertops is 20mm. A thickness of 30mm gives a more premium look to the kitchen.