Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom renovations in recent years. With their sleek, modern aesthetic and reputation for durability, many homeowners are choosing quartz over natural stone and laminate. But does opting for quartz countertops actually add resale value to your home? Here’s what you need to know.
What are Quartz Countertops?
Quartz countertops, also known as engineered stone countertops, are made from ground quartz crystals combined with polyresin and pigments. The result is a non-porous, stain-resistant material that is harder and less prone to damage than natural stone.
Some key advantages of quartz countertops:
- Extremely durable – resistant to scratches, heat, and stains
- Low maintenance – doesn’t require regular sealing like natural stone
- Non-porous – inhibits bacteria growth
- Available in wide range of colors and patterns
- Resists cracking better than natural stone
- Easy to clean and keep looking new
Brands like Silestone, Caesarstone, and Cambria are among the most popular makers of quartz countertops.
Do Quartz Countertops Increase Home Value?
According to real estate experts, upgrading to quartz countertops can increase your home’s resale value. Quartz is currently on-trend and preferred by many buyers over outdated laminate or high-maintenance natural stone.
In the 2019 Remodeling Impact Report from the National Association of REALTORS, installing quartz countertops was found to recoup around 68% of the project cost at resale. This was higher than the expected return for granite or marble countertops.
Specific ways quartz countertops can boost your home’s value:
- Enhances listing appeal – Quartz counters add a clean, modern look that appeals to contemporary buyers. Photos featuring sleek quartz can help your listing stand out.
- Increases buyer desire – Quartz is durable, low-maintenance, and family-friendly. These features are highly desirable for today’s busy buyers.
- Higher sale price – Homes with quartz counters can potentially sell for more than comparable homes. The upgraded kitchens and baths impress buyers.
- Quickens sale – Modern updates like quartz can help sell your home faster in a competitive market. Most buyers prefer move-in ready over outdated.
What is the Average Cost to Install Quartz?
Quartz countertops range from $80-$150 per square foot installed. The total cost depends on:
- Slab quality – Basic slabs start around $50 per sq. ft. while premium brands run $100+ per sq. ft.
- Edge treatments – Options like bullnose edges or decorative trim add cost.
- Labor – Approximately 50% of total cost is fabrication and installation.
- Countertop layout – More seamless longer runs cost more than small segmented counters.
Expect to invest $3,000-$5,000 to have quartz countertops installed in a small to medium-sized kitchen. Bathroom vanity tops will run $1,000-$2,000. Though not cheap, many homeowners find the cost worthwhile since quartz can last for decades with proper care.
Are There Any Drawbacks to Quartz?
Quartz is not without some downsides:
- Upfront cost – Natural stone like granite is generally cheaper than quartz. The high initial investment may deter buyers on a tight budget.
- Limited color range – Quartz lacks the dramatic veining and unique patters of natural stone. Color options are more muted.
- Requires professional installation – Not a DIY-friendly material. Seams need special adhesives and precision cutting.
- Can chip or scratch – Though very durable, quartz can be damaged by heavy impacts. Chips require repairs.
- Resale not guaranteed – As trends change, quartz may not sway resale value forever. Today’s “must-have” can become tomorrow’s dated feature.
Quartz Countertops FAQ
Below are answers to some common questions about quartz countertops:
Are quartz countertops better than granite?
Quartz and granite each have pros and cons. Quartz is harder, non-porous, and more stain/scratch-resistant. Granite offers a greater variety of unique natural patterns. Both can boost home value.
Do quartz countertops stain?
Quartz is non-porous so it generally does not stain from spills and chemicals. However, prolonged exposure can result in some staining. Quick cleanup is still recommended.
Is quartz healthier than granite?
Since quartz is man-made, it does not carry the risk of natural stone harbor bacteria in pores. Neither material poses any serious health risks when kept clean.
How long do quartz countertops last?
With proper care and maintenance, quartz countertops can last 25 years or longer before needing replacement. Avoid excessive force and use cutting boards to maintain their lifespan.
Does quartz add value to a home?
Yes, quartz countertops are shown to increase a home’s resale value. Quartz offers the look of high-end stone with less maintenance, boosting listing appeal. Most buyers are willing to pay more for homes with updated kitchens.
The Bottom Line
Installing stylish and durable quartz countertops can be a smart investment that pays off when you go to sell your home. Not only does quartz add aesthetic appeal, but it offers features most buyers are looking for like low-maintenance and family-friendly design. While the upfront cost of materials and installation isn’t cheap, the potential property value increase down the road makes quartz a choice worth considering.