9 Insider Tips to Save Big on Quartz Worktops: A Message from Robert Shaw
Hello, I’m Robert Shaw. With over 25 years in the stone industry and having run my own stone fabrication company since 2002—which I started from scratch—I’ve had the privilege of helping countless homeowners transform their kitchens with beautiful, durable quartz worktops. While these worktops are a fantastic investment, they can also be quite costly. That’s why today, I’m sharing nine insider tips to help you save money without compromising on quality. Make sure to read all the way to the end but tip #7 is a crucial one that could save you the most.
1. Opt for a Lesser-Known Brand: Quality Without the Marketing Costs
You might be tempted to go for big-name brands when choosing your quartz worktop, but lesser-known brands often offer the same quality without the hefty price tag. Big brands spend a lot on marketing, and those costs are inevitably passed on to you, the customer. By opting for a lesser-known but reputable brand, you can get a high-quality worktop without paying for the brand name.
2. Stick to Classic Edge Designs: The Hidden Costs of Complexity
Edge profiles can add a unique touch to your quartz worktops, but they can also add to the cost. Complex edge profiles like ogee or bullnose require more intricate craftsmanship and machine time which translates to higher labour costs. On the other hand, classic edge profiles like straight or eased edges are easier to fabricate, reducing labour costs. They also offer a timeless aesthetic that complements a wide range of kitchen designs.
3. Hunt for Special Offers and Excess Stock: Timing is Everything
Throughout the year, fabricators like us offer special promotions or discounts on excess stock. These are perfect opportunities to snag high-quality quartz worktops at a reduced cost. Seasonal sales, holiday promotions, and end-of-line discounts are all worth keeping an eye on. Subscribe to newsletters or follow your preferred fabricators on social media to stay updated on the latest deals.
4. Consider a 20mm Thickness Over 30mm: The Subtle Art of Compromise
The thickness of your quartz worktop can have a surprising impact on the overall cost. While 30mm worktops offer a luxurious, robust feel, 20mm worktops can provide a similar aesthetic and durability at a lower price point. The 10mm difference might not seem like much, but it can result in significant savings, especially for larger kitchens.
5. Simplify Your Design to Reduce Costs: Less is Often More
Intricate designs with curves, elaborate cut-outs, or additional features like flush fit hob cut-outs can significantly increase the fabrication costs. A simpler design with clean lines and fewer complex features is not only easier and quicker to install but also more cost-effective. Plus, a minimalist design often lends a modern, clean aesthetic to your kitchen.
6. Choose Upstands for a Budget-Friendly Finish: The Functional Alternative
Instead of tiling your kitchen walls, consider opting for upstands. They offer a clean, cohesive look and are easier to maintain. Plus, you’ll save on the cost of tiles, grout, and the labour involved in tiling, without sacrificing on style or functionality.
7. Buy Direct for the Ultimate Savings and Personalised Service: The Power of Going Straight to the Source
Buying directly from the fabricator is the most effective way to save money on your quartz worktops. Retailers often add a mark-up to cover their overheads and profit margins. By cutting out the middleman, you not only save money but also enjoy a more personalised service. You’ll have a wider range of choices, more customisation options, and direct communication with the experts crafting your worktops. It’s the ultimate way to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
8. Buy Your Sink and Tap from the Fabricator: The Overlooked Money-Saver
Here’s a tip that many overlook: buying your sink and tap directly from the fabricator can result in significant savings. Fabricators are primarily interested in selling worktops, so they’re often willing to offer sinks and taps at close to cost to win a sale. This can be a great way to save money while ensuring that all the components of your new kitchen worktop fit together seamlessly.
9. Get the Experts to Template and Fit: Avoid Costly DIY Mistakes
While the idea of a DIY installation might seem appealing, it’s often a false economy. Kitchens are complex spaces; walls aren’t always straight, and cut-outs for sinks and hobs need to be precise. Small mistakes can either ruin the worktop or cost a lot more to put right. It’s best to leave the templating and fitting to the experts. The initial cost may be higher, but you’ll likely save money in the long run by avoiding costly errors.
In Conclusion
Investing in a quartz worktop is a significant decision, but it doesn’t have to be a costly one. By applying these nine tips, especially the invaluable tip #7, you can achieve the kitchen of your dreams without stretching your budget.
To wrap up this informative blog, if you’re looking to transform your kitchen with a stunning yet affordable quartz worktop, you now have the insider tips to make it happen. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to save money while achieving the kitchen of your dreams.
Ready to take the next step? We’re here to help!
- 📧 Email us at info@shawstone.co.uk for a personalised consultation.
- 📞 Call us at 01329 844474 to speak directly with our experts.
- 🌐 Visit our website www.shawstone.uk to explore our range of services and products.
We look forward to helping you create the kitchen you’ve always dreamed of. Contact us today!