Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodels due to their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance. When budgeting for new countertops, one of the first questions that comes up is how much does quartz countertop cost per linear foot? Here is a comprehensive overview of quartz countertop pricing so you know what to expect.
Average Cost Per Linear Foot
The cost of quartz countertops ranges between $50 to $120 per square foot installed, with most homeowners paying between $70 to $100 per square foot. In terms of linear feet, this works out to:
- Low end: $50 per square foot x 25 inches of depth = $125 per linear foot
- Average: $85 per square foot x 25 inches of depth = $212 per linear foot
- High end: $120 per square foot x 25 inches of depth = $300 per linear foot
So on average, expect to pay around $75 to $150 per linear foot for installed quartz countertops.
Factors That Impact Quartz Countertop Pricing
Several factors account for the wide range in quartz countertop pricing:
Brand of Quartz
There are many manufacturers of engineered quartz materials, with Caesarstone, Cambria, Silestone, and LG Viatera among the top brands. The brand you choose impacts cost:
- Entry-level quartz: Budget-friendly options like IKEA’s quartz start around $50 per square foot.
- Mid-range quartz: Most name brands like Caesarstone cost $70-$120 per square foot.
- High-end quartz: Designer brands like Cambria can cost $125-$200 per square foot.
Higher priced quartz lines feature unique patterns, colors, and technological innovations that drive up cost.
Color and Pattern
Plain white or light quartz is the most affordable, while exotic patterns and colors like bold blues or greens cost more. Special finishes like metallics or mirrored effects also boost cost.
Thickness
Standard quartz thickness is 3/4 inch, but thicker options of 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 inches are available for more durability and a luxurious look. The thicker the quartz, the higher the price per square foot.
Installation Considerations
Your installation situation also impacts installed price:
- Simple layouts: Straight, L-shaped runs cost less than complex layouts with multiple seams/corners.
- Edge treatments: Decorative edges like bullnose, ogee, or chamfered add $10-$30 per linear foot.
- Backsplash: Adding a 4-6 inch backsplash adds about $10 per linear foot.
- Full versus partial remodel: A full kitchen remodel allows installers to be more efficient, reducing costs. Partial installs typically cost more overall.
Location and Installer
Like all home improvement projects, local market conditions influence pricing. Labor and material costs are higher in some areas than others. Installer reputation and experience is also a factor—well-established companies and fabricators charge more.
Cost Breakdown
Here is a typical per linear foot price breakdown for a mid-range quartz installation:
- $70 per square foot materials cost
- $15 per linear foot fabrication
- $20 per linear foot installation labor
- Total: $105 per linear foot
However, costs vary widely based on your exact quartz product selection and kitchen parameters.
How Much Do Quartz Countertops Cost for a 10 Foot Kitchen?
For a relatively straight 10 foot long kitchen countertop, quartz costs start around:
- Low end: $1,250 ($125 per linear foot)
- Mid-range: $2,120 ($212 per linear foot)
- High end: $3,000 ($300 per linear foot)
Most 10 foot kitchens fall between $1,500 to $2,500 total for quartz countertops. Again, the actual cost depends on your chosen thickness, edges, pattern, brand, and local installation pricing.
Cost Comparison to Other Countertop Materials
Quartz pricing falls between natural stone and materials like solid surface, laminate, or tile:
- Laminate countertops: $20-$40 per linear foot
- Tile countertops: $30-$70 per linear foot
- Quartz countertops: $75-$150 per linear foot
- Solid surface: $70-$110 per linear foot
- Granite: $80-$150 per linear foot
- Marble: $100-$200 per linear foot
While not the cheapest option, quartz offers good value given its stylish durability and low maintenance. The 10 to 20 year lifespan offsets the higher initial cost over time.
FAQ
Does thicker quartz cost more?
Yes, a 3cm thick quartz will cost $10-$20 more per square foot than standard 2cm thickness. The extra depth provides more durability and an upscale appearance.
Is installation included in the per foot prices listed?
No, fabrication and installation fees are on top of the per square foot material costs. Expect to pay $35-$50 per linear foot for a typical installation.
Is quartz more expensive than granite?
Quartz has a similar installed price to natural granite, costing $75-$150 per linear foot on average. More exotic granite can cost over $200 per foot.
Can you get discounts on quartz countertops?
Watch for seasonal sales around holidays to save 10% to 20%. Buying remnants and off-cut pieces instead of full slabs also reduces cost. Shop warehouse retailers for lower prices as well.
Does extra patterns, edges, and colors increase the price?
Yes, custom upgrades like intricate edge profiles, designer finishes, and exotic patterns will boost the per square foot price, increasing your overall cost.
The Bottom Line
When budgeting your kitchen remodel, expect to pay around $100 to $200 per linear foot for installed quartz countertops. Exact pricing depends on the quality, color, thickness, patterning, edges, brand and fabrication/installation costs for your specific project. While not cheap, quartz offers great durability and style for the price over its lifespan. With some savvy shopping, you can find quartz countertops to fit a range of budgets.