Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects in recent years. With their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance, it’s easy to see why quartz has gained so much traction in the countertop market. However, with so many options and price ranges available, many homeowners wonder – what’s the typical price of quartz countertops? Here’s an overview of what impacts the cost of quartz counters and what you can expect to budget for a quartz countertop installation.
What is Quartz?
Before diving into quartz countertop pricing, it’s helpful to understand exactly what quartz countertops are. Quartz counters are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with polyresin binders. The quartz provides strength and durability, while the binders allow the material to take on different colors and patterns.
The result is a low-maintenance, non-porous countertop that resists scratches, stains, and heat. Unlike natural stone, quartz does not need to be sealed. And because quartz slabs are manufactured, installers can create seamless countertops with a wide variety of edge styles. All of these features make quartz an appealing option for busy kitchens and baths.
Factors That Impact Quartz Countertop Cost
Quartz pricing depends on several factors:
Quartz Type
There are different tiers or quality levels of quartz, which impact the price. Lower tier quartz is made with about 90% ground quartz blended with more polyresin. Higher tiers use 93-95% natural quartz in the slabs for increased durability and a more natural, stone-like look. Higher tiers cost more.
Color and Pattern
Simple, single-tone quartz colors often cost less than dramatic patterns or unique color blends.
Supplier
Popular quartz brands like Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone tend to cost more than generic or lesser known quartz suppliers.
Fabrication
The complexity of fabricating and installing the counters impacts labor costs. Counters with difficult seams, cutouts, and edge profiles take more effort and expertise to install.
Location
Regional labor rates play a role in quartz counter installation costs. Prices are often higher in areas with a higher cost of living.
Quantity Needed
The total square footage needed will determine how many slabs must be purchased and fabricated. More countertop square footage equals higher overall costs.
What is the Average Price for a Quartz Countertop?
With those factors in mind, most quartz countertops range from $50 – $100 per square foot installed. This estimate includes material costs plus fabrication and installation.
According to HomeAdvisor, expect to pay around these typical price ranges for different quality levels of quartz:
- Low-end: $45 – $75 per square foot
- Mid-range: $70 – $100 per square foot
- High-end: $90 – $150 per square foot
Here is an overview of what you can expect to pay for quartz by the most common installation areas:
- Kitchen countertops: $2,500 – $5,000
- Bathroom vanities: $1,200 – $3,000
- Bar counters: $1,000 – $2,000
- Islands: $1,500 – $3,500
- Backsplashes: $600 – $1,500
As you can see, material costs alone for a full kitchen remodel can easily total $3,000 – $7,000 for quality quartz countertops. The specific total will depend on the sizes of each area needing countertops.
Factors That Add Additional Costs
Beyond the base price per square foot for materials and installation, also expect to pay more for:
- Cutouts: Any required cutouts for sinks, stovetops, or other features add $150 – $200 per cutout.
- Edge profiles: Decorative edges like ogee, bevel, or eased cost $15 – $30 per linear foot more than standard eased edge.
- Backsplashes: Quartz backsplashes typically range from $25 – $50 per linear foot installed.
- Extra fabrication: Details like seams, built-in drain boards, brackets, or laminations will increase labor time and costs.
- Demolition fees: If you’re replacing your existing countertops, demolition and disposal fees apply. This often costs an additional $200 – $500.
How to Get the Best Price
To get the best deal on your quartz countertops, consider these tips:
- Shop sales at home improvement stores or negotiate pricing from fabricators.
- Avoid overpaying for brand names unless the quality and style are worth it to you.
- Choose a simple style in standard size slabs to minimize seams and custom cuts.
- Get quotes from 3-4 installers and compare costs.
- Provide your own sink and accessories to save on supplier markups.
- Install counters off-peak season when shops are less busy.
Is Quartz Worth the Investment?
While quartz counters are more expensive than options like laminate, the durability and low maintenance make them a sound long-term investment. With proper care, quartz countertops can last many years and retain their like-new appearance. Plus, quartz often boosts home resale value significantly.
Overall, quartz offers homeowners excellent functionality and aesthetics at a moderate price point compared to other natural stone options. For many buyers, investing $80 – $120 per square foot installed for a quality quartz countertop is worthwhile when you consider the years of enjoyment it will provide.
In Conclusion
When budgeting for new quartz counters, expect to pay around $70 – $100 per square foot installed for a pleasing mid-range style. Higher-end premium materials and complex installations can reach $150 per square foot. But for most homeowners, choosing an affordable, simpler quartz style for $80 – $100 per square foot installed gives you the look and performance you want while keeping costs reasonable. With some smart shopping and design choices, quartz can be a budget-friendly option that stands the test of time.