Concrete and quartz are both popular choices for kitchen and bathroom countertops. Many homeowners wonder which material is more affordable. Here is an in-depth comparison of concrete and quartz countertops on cost.
Cost of Concrete Countertops
Concrete countertops are custom-made in place using concrete that is poured into molds and allowed to cure. This allows for great flexibility in shapes and sizes.
The cost of concrete countertops ranges from $50 – $100 per square foot installed. This cost can vary based on:
- Concrete mix – Using white cement instead of gray adds $2-3 more per square foot. Other additives like glass fibers or resins also increase cost.
- Complexity of shape/design – Simple rectangles or squares are cheaper than curved shapes or edges. Intricate embedded designs add labor and cost.
- Thickness – Standard 1.5 inch thickness is ideal for most homes. Going up to 2-3 inches adds $10-20 more per square foot.
- Labor – Fabrication and installation is generally $25-50 per square foot. Complex projects or high-end finishes may cost more in labor.
- Location – Concrete prices are higher in areas like San Francisco or New York City.
Cost of Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are made from engineered stone composed of quartz particles blended with resins and pigments. Quartz slabs are mass-produced for consistent quality.
The cost of quartz countertops ranges from $70 – $120 per square foot installed. This cost depends on:
- Quartz type – Basic quartz like Caesarstone starts around $70 per square foot. High-end brands like Cambria or Silestone cost $100-120 installed.
- Edges/thickness – Standard polished straight edges add little cost. Unique edges or extra thickness increase price.
- Patterns – Simple solid quartz colors are most affordable. Stone-look patterns or bold designs cost $10-15 more per square foot.
- Labor – Fabrication and installation typically adds $40-60 per square foot in labor fees.
- Location – As with concrete, quartz prices are higher in some metro areas.
Concrete Countertops vs. Quartz on Price
When it comes to cost, concrete countertops are generally 25-50% cheaper than quartz. The starting price of basic concrete is $50 per square foot, while basic quartz starts around $70 per square foot installed.
However, concrete costs can also rise with special treatments like coloring, stamping, and intricate casts. Quartz costs similarly rise for exotic stone looks and premium brands.
On average, expect to pay:
- Concrete countertops: $65-85 per square foot
- Quartz countertops: $90-110 per square foot
Quartz requires less maintenance and sealing than concrete. But concrete offers fully custom designs. Both are excellent countertop materials, with concrete being the more budget-friendly option in most cases.
Factors That Impact Overall Price
A few additional factors affect the total price of countertops:
- Size of project – Total square footage determines materials needed. Typical kitchens require 35-45 square feet of countertop.
- Edge profiles – Decorative edges like ogee, bullnose, or chamfer add $5-15 per linear foot.
- Backsplash – Tile or solid surface backsplashes add $10-25 per linear foot installed.
- Sinks/faucets – Undermount sinks cost $200-600 with installation. Faucets add a few hundred dollars more.
- Demolition fees – Removing old countertops can cost $2-4 per square foot.
- Installation – Hiring a pro for perfect seams and precision costs $40-100 per hour.
In total, a full kitchen concrete countertop installation may range $4,000 to $7,500 for materials, fabrication, and installation. A quartz countertop kitchen often ranges $6,000 to $10,000 after all expenses.
Pros and Cons of Concrete and Quartz
| Concrete Countertops | Quartz Countertops |
|---|---|
| Pros: – Fully custom designs – Stain and scratch resistant – Eco-friendly | Pros: – Consistent pattern and color – Requires no sealing – Heat and scratch resistant |
| Cons: – Requires yearly sealing – Can stain/scratch if unsealed – Needs occasional maintenance | Cons: – Limited color/pattern options – Less custom fabrication available – Can be prone to damage if improperly installed |
FAQs About Concrete vs Quartz Costs
Is concrete cheaper than quartz?
Yes, concrete is generally 25-50% cheaper than quartz for countertops. Concrete starts around $50 per square foot installed, while quartz starts around $70.
Why is quartz more expensive than concrete?
Quartz is more expensive because it is an engineered composite material made from natural quartz blended with resins and pigments. This manufacturing process is more costly than pouring and molding concrete onsite. Brand name recognition also adds to higher quartz prices.
What is the most affordable countertop option?
The most budget-friendly countertop is often tile or laminate around $15-30 per square foot installed. But concrete and quartz offer more durability, customization, and aesthetic options for the price.
Can concrete countertops look like quartz?
Yes, concrete countertops can be stamped or colored to mimic the appearance of quartz and natural stone. Certain mix-ins like glass aggregates can also achieve a quartz-like sparkly appearance.
How much does the average kitchen countertop cost?
The average total cost for kitchen countertops is $2,000 to $4,000, or about $40-100 per square foot. This includes materials, fabrication, installation, backsplash, sink, and labor. High-end countertop materials like quartz or granite may cost up to $6,000+ for an average sized kitchen.
Conclusion
In summary, concrete countertops tend to cost 25-50% less than quartz countertops in most kitchen or bathroom renovation projects. Concrete starts around $50 per square foot installed, while quartz starts around $70 per square foot.
While concrete is less expensive, quartz countertops provide sturdy long-term performance with less maintenance required. Homeowners should consider the pros and cons of each material based on their budget, kitchen use, and style preferences.
Getting 3-5 quotes from concrete and quartz fabricators is advisable to compare their exact prices for your project. An experienced kitchen designer can also help weigh the costs and benefits of each countertop material. Though more affordable overall, concrete countertops can offer durability, customization, and beauty comparable to pricier quartz.