Design & Style

The Ultimate Guide to Quartz Countertops in 2025: Trends, Costs, and Expert Advice

2025 Quartz Countertops: Trends, Costs & Colors Guide

Quartz countertops remain a top choice for homeowners in 2025. With their sleek appearance, resistance to stains and scratches, and low maintenance requirements, quartz surfaces are ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and even laundry rooms. In this guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know before buying quartz in 2025—from pricing and trends to pros, cons, and maintenance tips. Most importantly, it will help you make a confident decision.

What Are Quartz Countertops?

Quartz countertops are engineered surfaces made by combining crushed natural quartz (typically 90–95%) with polymer resins and pigments. Unlike natural stone, quartz is non-porous and doesn’t require sealing. Therefore, it’s a favorite for those who want durability with minimal maintenance. In fact, it has become the go-to for homeowners seeking practicality with beauty. If you’re curious how to keep them looking new, check out our countertop maintenance guide.

Top Quartz Countertop Trends in 2025

  • Warm Neutrals: Beige, sand, and taupe tones are replacing cool greys and whites.
  • Bold Marble-Look Veining: Dramatic veining that mimics marble or quartzite is gaining popularity.
  • Textured Finishes: Honed and leathered quartz surfaces are replacing high-gloss finishes.
  • Eco-Conscious Options: Recycled quartz and sustainable production methods are becoming industry standards.

Additionally, color-matching backsplashes and waterfall edges are in style. For example, many designers are pairing honed quartz with wooden cabinetry. Meanwhile, if you want to explore other materials, don’t miss our full roundup of 2025 countertop trends for every material.

Quartz Countertop Pricing in 2025

Quartz countertops in 2025 typically range between $55 and $120 per square foot, including fabrication and installation. However, pricing can vary based on several factors. For instance, choosing premium edges or bookmatched slabs will increase costs. Moreover, location and installer reputation may also influence the total price.

  • Brand (e.g., Cambria, MSI, Silestone)
  • Slab thickness (2cm vs. 3cm)
  • Edge profiles and cutouts
  • Installation complexity

Quartz vs Granite: Which Is Better in 2025?

Quartz and granite both offer long-lasting beauty, but they differ significantly in care and consistency. To help you decide, here’s a quick comparison:

FeatureQuartzGranite
PorosityNon-porousPorous
MaintenanceLowMedium
Heat ResistanceModerateHigh
Color ConsistencyUniformNatural variation

Verdict: Quartz is ideal for those who want a sleek, consistent look with little upkeep. On the other hand, granite is best for those who love natural patterns. Still unsure? See our full Quartzite Countertop Guide for benefits, costs, and care tips.

Pros and Cons of Quartz Countertops

✅ Pros

  • Non-porous and highly hygienic
  • Low maintenance — no sealing needed
  • Scratch and stain resistant
  • Wide variety of colors and finishes
  • Backed by warranties up to 25 years

⚠️ Cons

  • Not ideal for outdoor use (UV-sensitive)
  • Can be more expensive than granite
  • Less heat resistant — use trivets

Nevertheless, the pros outweigh the cons for most homeowners seeking a stylish, easy-to-maintain surface.

Best Quartz Brands in 2025

As you might expect, there are many brands to choose from, each with its own strengths. Below are the top-rated quartz manufacturers for 2025:

  1. Cambria Quartz – Made in the USA with elegant, luxury designs.
  2. Silestone – Offers antimicrobial protection and vivid colors.
  3. MSI Q Quartz – Affordable with diverse colors and styles.
  4. Caesarstone – Industry innovator known for bold designs.
  5. Vicostone – Stylish, budget-friendly options.

How to Choose the Right Quartz for Your Home

Choosing quartz may seem overwhelming with so many styles available. To simplify the decision, consider the following:

  • Color palette: Match your cabinets, flooring, and walls.
  • Edge profiles: Eased, beveled, ogee, or waterfall for modern designs.
  • Finish: Choose polished, honed, or leathered based on your preferred aesthetic.
  • Brand warranties: Ensure your quartz includes a reliable warranty.

Ultimately, choosing the right quartz comes down to your lifestyle, taste, and budget.

Maintenance Tips for Quartz Countertops

Quartz is loved for its low upkeep. Even so, a few care habits can make it last even longer:

  • Clean daily with mild soap and water or quartz-safe cleaner
  • Avoid harsh abrasives and bleach-based cleaners
  • Use trivets or hot pads to protect from thermal shock

For more details, check out our complete countertop maintenance guide.

Ready to Upgrade Your Home with Quartz?

Quartz countertops are a smart, stylish, and sustainable choice for any home in 2025. Whether you’re remodeling or building new, quartz offers lon



Polished vs Honed Countertops: Which Finish Is Right for Your Home?

When choosing a countertop finish, the decision between polished vs honed countertops can significantly influence both the look and maintenance of your kitchen or bathroom. In this guide, we explore the differences between these popular finishes to help you make an informed choice.

Side-by-side comparison of polished and honed countertop finishes, showing the difference in sheen and texture for kitchen or bathroom surfaces.

What Are Countertop Finishes?

Countertop finishes determine the surface texture and reflectivity of your stone, quartz, or engineered slab. The two most common finishes are:

Polished Countertops

A polished finish gives countertops a high-gloss, mirror-like surface. This finish enhances the natural colors and patterns of the material, offering a luxurious, contemporary look. However, polished surfaces can reflect light and show fingerprints or smudges more readily.

  • Pros: Enhances color and pattern; easy to wipe clean
  • Cons: Can show fingerprints; sometimes too reflective for certain design styles
  • Works exceptionally well with quartz countertops and granite countertops.

Honed Countertops

A honed finish is matte and smooth with little to no shine. It provides a more natural, understated look and tends to hide minor scratches better than polished surfaces. Honed countertops are ideal for a warm, casual, or traditional aesthetic.

  • Pros: Subtle and natural appearance; hides scratches and imperfections
  • Cons: May require more upkeep to maintain a consistent look
  • Often selected for high-traffic areas where durability is a must; works well with materials like marble countertops.

Polished vs Honed: A Side-by-Side Comparison

FeaturePolishedHoned
AestheticsHigh-gloss and reflectiveMatte and subtle
MaintenanceEasy to clean, but shows fingerprintsHides minor scratches better
Style SuitabilityModern, high-end designsTraditional, natural looks
Light ReflectionReflects light, brightening spaceAbsorbs light, offering a softer look

Which Finish Is Right for You?

Your choice between polished and honed countertops depends on your aesthetic goals and practical needs:

  • If you prefer a modern, sleek look and don’t mind a bit of extra cleaning, a polished finish is ideal.
  • If you desire a more natural, understated appearance with less glare and better disguise for minor imperfections, go with a honed finish.

Countertop Care and Maintenance

Regardless of your chosen finish, proper care is essential. For cleaning tips and maintenance routines, check out our maintenance guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between polished and honed countertops?

Polished countertops have a glossy, mirror-like surface that enhances color and pattern. Honed countertops have a matte finish that offers a more natural look with less reflection.

Which countertop finish is easier to maintain?

Polished surfaces are typically easier to clean but may show smudges or fingerprints. Honed finishes are better at hiding minor scratches and everyday wear, though they may need more frequent sealing depending on the material.

Which finish is better for modern kitchens?

Polished countertops are ideal for sleek, contemporary kitchen designs. Honed finishes suit more natural, rustic, or traditional aesthetics.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right countertop finish can dramatically influence the overall design and functionality of your space. Whether you opt for the bright, reflective look of a polished finish or the subtle elegance of a honed surface, make sure your choice aligns with your lifestyle and design vision.

Need expert advice? Contact us or get a free estimate today to explore samples and find the perfect finish for your home.

https://stonevalleyco.com/polished-vs-honed-countertops/

Countertop Thickness Guide: Standard, Mitered & Custom Options



Countertop Thickness Guide: Standard, Mitered & Custom Options

Choosing the right countertop thickness isn’t just a design decision — it affects your budget, structural support, and overall aesthetic. Whether you’re remodeling a kitchen, upgrading a bathroom, or building an outdoor grill island, it pays to understand your options.


A side-by-side comparison of 2cm and 3cm countertop thickness on a quartz installation by Stone Valley Countertops.

Standard Countertop Thickness

In most homes across Ontario, the standard thickness for stone countertops is:

  • 3cm (1.25 inches): Ideal for granite, quartz, and quartzite. Offers maximum strength and doesn’t require plywood support underneath.
  • 2cm (0.75 inches): Used more in vanities or modern designs. Lighter but may need additional support or build-up underneath.

Not sure which one to go with? Our post on Quartz Countertops covers more on thickness benefits and edge options.

When to Choose a Mitered Edge

If you’re after a **bold, modern look**, a mitered edge might be for you. A mitered edge gives the illusion of a thicker slab (up to 6cm or more) by wrapping the stone vertically at the edge. It’s especially popular for:

  • Waterfall kitchen islands
  • High-end bathroom vanities
  • Outdoor kitchens and bars

Explore more edge designs in our Countertop Edge Profile Guide.

How Material Affects Thickness

Each stone behaves differently depending on its density. Here’s what to expect:

  • Granite: Most stable at 3cm; naturally heavy and durable.
  • Quartz: Works well in 2cm or 3cm; more flexibility in design.
  • Porcelain & ultra-compact surfaces: Often thinner (12mm) but mitered to appear thicker.

Design Trends in Thickness (2025)

According to our 2025 Countertop Trends Report, we’re seeing more designers opt for:

  • Thicker mitered edges (5–6cm appearance)
  • Integrated backsplashes with the same slab
  • Mixed thickness in the same space (ex: thick island, slim perimeter)

Custom Thickness Options

Some homeowners want something in between or totally custom. We can create **build-ups, laminated edges, and layered installations** that give you the look you want without compromising structural integrity.

Need help choosing the best approach? We’ll walk you through it based on material, budget, and design vision.

Final Thoughts

The right countertop thickness comes down to **function, material, and style goals**. Whether you’re sticking with standard 3cm or going bold with a mitered waterfall edge, we’ll help you make the right call for your space.

Use our quick estimate tool or book a consultation to get expert advice and see full-size thickness samples in person.