Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for home kitchen and bathroom remodels due to their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance. But with so many options on the market, many homeowners wonder – how much is a quartz countertop slab? Here is a detailed overview on quartz countertop pricing.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The result is a hard, non-porous material that is resistant to scratches, stains, and heat.
Unlike natural stone counters like granite or marble, quartz does not need to be sealed regularly. And quartz comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns – from mimics of natural stone to bold, modern designs. This versatility and durability makes quartz an attractive option for many homeowners.
Average Cost of Quartz Countertops
The price of quartz countertops will depend on several factors:
- Quartz brand – Popular brands like Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone are on the higher end of the price spectrum. Less expensive options include brands like MSI and Viatera.
- Color and pattern – Simple, solid color slabs will be the most affordable. Unique patterns and bold coloring will increase the price.
- Thickness – Standard thickness is 3/4″. Going up to 2 cm or down to 1/2″ will affect cost.
- Edge treatments – Options like bullnose, ogee, and bevelled edges will drive up the price. A standard square edge will keep costs lower.
- Installation – Hiring a professional to template, fabricate and install will add to the overall project cost. DIY installation can save on labor fees.
Taking these factors into account, the average total cost for quartz countertops ranges from $40-100 per square foot installed.
Cost Breakdown
To understand exactly how much a quartz countertop slab may cost for your specific project, it helps to break the expenses down:
Quartz Slab Material
This is the actual price of the raw quartz slabs. Material will cost $50-150 per square foot on average. Simple white or light grey slabs from budget brands will be at the lower end. Unique granite-looking patterns or colors from premium brands can range up to $150/square foot.
Fabrication
Fabrication is the process of custom cutting and shaping the slabs for your kitchen or bath layout. Most quartz installers will charge around $50-100 per linear foot for fabrication. The total cost will depend on the complexity of your design.
Installation
Paying a professional to install your new quartz countertops will typically cost $40-100 per hour. Rates will vary based on your location. The total installation fees will depend on the size of the job and options like backsplashes and laminated edges.
Additional Costs
Other charges like sink cutouts, shipping, and template fees can add a few hundred dollars more to your total project cost. It’s important to consider these expenses when budgeting.
Cost Comparison to Other Countertop Materials
Compared to other popular countertop options, quartz lands in the middle price range:
- Quartz is generally less expensive than natural stone like marble or granite. No sealing is required.
- It is comparably priced to solid surface materials like Corian® or Swanstone® when factoring in durability and maintenance.
- Quartz will be more expensive than tile or wood countertops which both have a lower material cost. But installation may take more time.
- Quartz costs much more than laminate countertops made of plastic laminate over particle board. But quartz will last much longer without chipping or warping.
Factors That Impact Quartz Slab Cost
Many details about your specific project will determine the total investment needed for new quartz countertops. Be sure to consider:
1. Surface Area
The overall square footage of countertop space needed will significantly impact cost. Larger kitchens and bathrooms will require higher quartz slab expenses. Accurately measure your existing space before budgeting.
2. Layout Complexity
Simple countertop layouts like rectangular islands are the most affordable. But details like seams, cutouts, and edge pieces will drive up fabrication fees. Make sure your installer provides a 3D rendering so you understand what is involved.
3. Thickness
While 3/4″ is standard, opting for a thicker 2 cm slab will improve durability and come with a higher price tag. And some budgets may allow for thinner 1/2″ pieces to save on cost. Make sure to discuss options with your contractor.
4. TYPE of Edge
Fancier edge profiles like beveled, ogee, and dupont will cost more than a simple eased or square edge. Edge treatments also impact the installation labor time.
5. Backsplashes
Adding a coordinating quartz backsplash will increase both material and installation costs compared to a tile or glass sheet backsplash. Leaving an unfinished backsplash area can help reduce budget.
6. Brand
Respected quartz brands like Silestone, Caesarstone, and Cambria come at a higher cost than value collections from Home Depot or IKEA. But cheaper brands may be more prone to defects or inconsistencies.
How to Save Money on Quartz
For homeowners looking get the most attractive quartz countertops for their budget, there are some money-saving tactics:
- Opt for a thinner 1/2″ slab if durability is not a top concern.
- Select a simple color and pattern like white or light grey rather than bold veining.
- Consider value brands like MSI, Viatera, or IKEA’s Sektion quartz.
- Install a tile backsplash instead of extending quartz up the wall.
- Choose a square edge profile over beveled or waterfall edges.
- Purchase pre-fabricated sections for islands or bars to avoid custom fabrication fees.
- Perform DIY installation if you have remodeling experience.
- Provide your own sink rather than having it cut on-site.
With some smart design decisions and budget-friendly brands, many homeowners find quartz counters are an affordable option that can modernize a home for less. Always get detailed quotes from multiple installers before committing to know exactly what to expect for total investment. And be sure to compare warranties – better quartz brands provide 10-15 years of protection. With some savvy shopping, you can find beautiful, durable quartz countertops that fit your unique style and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions About Quartz Countertops
How much does a basic kitchen quartz countertop cost?
For a simple small to mid-sized kitchen with about 40 square feet of standard 3/4″ quartz countertop, expect to pay $2,000-4,000 total for material, fabrication, and installation.
What thickness of quartz countertop is best?
The standard thickness is 3/4″. This provides an ideal balance of durability and affordability for most homes. 2 cm (just under 1″) is best for heavy use kitchens. 1/2″ can also be an option if on a tight budget.
Is quartz or granite more expensive?
Quartz is generally slightly less expensive than granite. Granite requires more time-intensive fabrication and annual sealing maintenance. But for a high-end luxurious look, granite may be preferred by some homeowners despite the higher cost.
Can quartz countertops crack or scratch?
Quartz is engineered to be non-porous and resist scratching, but no material is indestructible. Applying excess pressure in one area can cause hairline cracks. Using a cutting board and avoiding abuse is best.
How long do quartz countertops last compared to other materials?
With proper care, quartz counters can last 20-25 years. Granite may last longer but requires more maintenance. Laminate and tile have shorter lifespans around 10-15 years. Overall, quartz provides an excellent balance of longevity and hassle-free use for most homeowners.