Installing quartz countertops can significantly upgrade the look and feel of your kitchen or bathroom. As an engineered stone, quartz offers durability, aesthetics, and ease of maintenance. When considering quartz, one of the biggest questions is cost. Let’s take a look at what goes into quartz countertop pricing.
Quartz Countertop Cost Factors
Several key factors impact the total cost of quartz countertops:
Material
The type of quartz material you choose will affect the price. There are many brands of engineered quartz on the market that range in cost from value selections like Caesarstone to premium options like Silestone. The pattern and colors also impact cost – more unique designs tend to cost more.
Fabrication
You’ll need to pay for manufacturing and custom fabrication of your slabs to fit your space. Complex designs, edge details, and specialty cutouts can increase fabrication costs.
Installation
Professional installation is important for proper fitting and long-term durability. Labor will depend on the size of the project and complexity.
Countertop Thickness
Standard thickness is 3/4″, but thicker 1 1/4″ slabs provide more durability and usually cost $10-$15 per square foot more.
Edges
Decorative edges like ogee, bevel, and bullnose will increase the linear footage price. Simple eased or minimalistic edges cost less.
Backsplash
Adding a quartz backsplash can increase cost $10-$20 per linear foot but provides a seamless, stylish look. Tile backsplash offers more budget options.
Sink Cutouts
Cutouts for undermount sinks add labor and fabrication costs. Expect to pay $40-$100 for each sink cutout depending on size and intricacy.
Average Costs
Generally expect to pay:
- Quartz slabs: $40-$100 per square foot
- Fabrication: $40-$100 per linear foot
- Installation: $10-$25 per square foot
- Total: $80-$250 per square foot
For a 30 square foot countertop, total costs often range $2,500-$5,500 with installation. High-end materials, intricate edges, and premium installation will increase costs.
Cost-Saving Tips
Here are some ways to get the beautiful look of quartz counters on a budget:
- Go for a value-brand quartz like Silestone Lyra, Caesarstone Cloudburst Concrete or Cambria Bellingham Quartz.
- Choose a neutral color rather than bold patterns which tend to cost more.
- Opt for the standard 3/4″ thickness unless you need exceptional durability.
- Keep edge profiles simple – ease or minimalistic bevelled edges are budget-friendly.
- Use tile for the backsplash instead of a full quartz backsplash.
- Look for specials and sales especially during slower times of year.
FAQs
Does thickness affect the cost of quartz?
Yes, thicker slabs 1 1/4″ or 1 1/2″ tend to cost $10-15 more per square foot but provide more durability. The standard thickness is 3/4″.
Is a quartz backsplash cheaper than tile?
Usually not – a quartz backsplash will typically run $10-20 more per linear foot than ceramic tile. However, quartz provides a sleek, seamless look.
Can quartz have the look of natural stone?
Yes, many modern quartz materials are designed to emulate marble, granite and other stones with realistic veining and patterns. Brands like Silestone and Caesarstone offer convincing stone looks.
What upgrades increase the cost of quartz?
More unique colors and patterns, thick edges like ogee and bullnose, decorative accents, 1 1/4″ thickness, full backsplashes and ornate sink cutouts will increase the cost. Going with a premium brand over value options also ups the price.
Is installation for quartz more than other countertops?
Installation is comparable to other engineered stones like granite. However, quartz is often cheaper for installation than materials like marble, tile or concrete that require more extensive prep and labor.
Should You Invest in Quartz Countertops?
Quartz counters offer a winning combination of beauty, durability, and practicality. Though more expensive than laminate, quartz costs significantly less than natural stone with lower maintenance. The smooth non-porous surface resists scratches, stains and heat damage. With innovative patterns, quartz brings high-end style at reasonable cost.
Focus on finding a quality fabricator and limit expensive upgrades. Though not cheap, with strategic planning quartz can fit many budgets. For a kitchen or bath that will wow, quartz provides enduring appeal and value.