Not All Quartz Is Created Equal
April 18, 2016
ColorQuartz countertop in Calypso Brown
Not All Quartz is Created Equal
Here at Marble & Granite, Inc, we began distributing quartz products in 2000. At that time, there were just a few producers. We contacted Caesarstone and decided to join forces with them to promote quartz in the marketplace. At that time, we had to work to convince the fabricators that the product was a good alternative to other manufactured products such as Corian and solid surfaces. It took four years of effort before the trades started to accept and see the advantages of a man-made product. Since then, the number of quartz factories has multiplied to between 50 to 100 factories . And today, there is a clear difference between the two groups of quartz products that you see in the marketplace: the branded quartz and the private label quartz.
Brands such as Caesarstone, Silestone, Cambria, and ColorQuartz are well known in the marketplace. Not only are these products produced via strictly monitored procedures, they’re also certified. The quality is top-notch, and consistent. These brands have solid distribution networks, organized support of the brand, and the ability to offer warranties. A branded product also offers comprehensive marketing support that can provide samples, books, displays, and more.
On the other hand, the private label brands are made of materials that are purchased at many OEM factories. The product is produced at different places, so the quality, color, and overall supply is not uniform. Moreover, the only support comes from the distributor who has a limited capacity to sustain a warranty claim. Without marketing support, it’s difficult to obtain samples and marketing materials are virtually non-existent.
So, if you’re looking to purchase quartz for your next project and leaning toward the lower priced private label brands, ask yourself why the price is lower. It may cost less, but when you select a private label brand, you’re also getting a lot less, and that could lead to problems down the road. Without the support, warranties, and certifications of a branded product, you’re getting what you pay for—and you’ll have few options for solutions when problems arise.
Following our amicable separation from Caesarstone, we began working with ColorQuartz. This month marks our two-year anniversary of selling ColorQuartz. We’re very proud of our new brand of quartz product. So far, the numbers don’t lie. Out of over 8,000 slabs we’ve sold, we had 36 calls regarding warranties, and only 16 of these were regarding an actual problem with the material. Plus, among all of the vendors that we work with, they are the most organized!
Our experienced natural stone experts are ready to show you the wide variety of colors and ColorQuartz options available. Give us a call at 877-39-STONE or visit one of our two showroom locations in Westwood, MA and Milford, CT.