Custom quartz countertops can give your kitchen or bathroom a luxurious, high-end look. But before installing them, it’s important to understand how much quartz countertops cost. Here’s a detailed overview of custom quartz countertop pricing, factors that affect cost, and ways to get the best value.
What Are Quartz Countertops?
Quartz countertops, also called engineered stone countertops, are made from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The result is a durable, non-porous surface that resists stains, scratches, and heat.
Quartz offers the beauty of natural stone without the hassle. It doesn’t need to be sealed and is nearly maintenance-free. Quartz comes in a wide array of colors and patterns to suit any design style.
How Much Do Quartz Countertops Cost?
On average, expect to pay $80-100 per square foot installed for custom quartz countertops. The total cost depends on several factors:
Size of Countertops
The more countertop square footage needed, the higher your total cost. Measure the linear footage you need for an accurate estimate. Common sizes and price estimates:
- Small bathroom vanity (25 sq ft): $2,000-2,500
- Medium kitchen (40 sq ft): $3,200-4,000
- Large kitchen (60+ sq ft): $4,800-6,000+
Color and Pattern
Simple solid quartz colors are the most affordable options. Premium colors and patterns, like marble looks, generally cost $5-15 more per square foot.
Edge Styles
Standard eased or straight edges are often included in the base price. More complex edges like ogee, bevel, or dupont add $5-15 per linear foot.
Thickness
Standard thickness is 3/4″. Go for 1 1/4″ or 1 1/2″ thickness for a sturdier feel. Thicker quartz can increase cost $10-20 per square foot.
Installation
Install generally adds $40-100 per hour. Complex designs or appliance cutouts can increase installation time.
Brand
Top brands like Caesarstone and Cambria range $100-150 per square foot installed. Lower-priced brands like MSI can be $50-80 per square foot.
Factors That Impact Quartz Countertop Cost
Aside from the above factors, several other considerations affect your final custom quartz price:
- Location: Prices are generally higher in areas like New York City or San Francisco than smaller cities and rural areas.
- Custom edges and cutouts: Adding a waterfall edge or cutouts for sinks and appliances costs extra.
- Convenience features: Features like integrated drainboards, backsplashes, and seamless joint technology can increase cost.
- Sales tax: Countertop estimates usually don’t include local sales tax, which can add 8% or more.
- Demolition and disposal: Removing old countertops and disposing of them adds $200-300 typically.
Tips for Getting the Best Value
To get quality quartz countertops while sticking to your budget:
- Shop sales at home improvement stores, as quartz brands often run 10-20% off promotions.
- Consider lower-priced brands like MSI, Caesarstone Motivo, or Cambria Bella for big savings.
- Select a simple edge profile like eased or beveled. Skip ornate edges like ogee or dupont.
- Install quartz yourself if you’re experienced with DIY countertop replacement.
- Provide your own measurements to get accurate quotes rather than relying on contractor measurements.
- Get 3-5 estimates to compare pricing between local countertop fabricators.
How Much Are Custom Quartz Countertops: The Bottom Line
In most cases, expect to invest $80-150 per square foot for beautiful custom-cut quartz countertops installed. This premium material costs more than laminate or tile but can greatly enhance the look and functionality of your kitchen or bath. Carefully calculate your budget and use cost-saving techniques to get the most value from your custom quartz countertop project.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do quartz countertops cost compared to granite?
Quartz generally costs $80-150 per square foot installed. Granite ranges from $60-150 per square foot. While material prices are similar, granite requires more sealing and maintenance.
Are quartz countertops cheaper than natural stone?
Quartz is less expensive than natural stone like marble and soapstone which can cost $100-300 per square foot. But quartz is pricier than affordable options like tile, laminate, concrete, and butcher block.
Should I wait for a sale to buy quartz?
Sales can offer significant savings on quartz. Holding out for a home improvement store sale or promotion from quartz brands can save you 10-20% off regular prices.
Does quartz come in different price levels?
Quartz does come in different price tiers. Lower-cost brands like MSI offer prices starting around $50 per square foot. Premium designers like Caesarstone or Cambria range up to $150 per square foot.
Is it cheaper to buy remnant quartz?
Purchasing a remnant section of quartz from a fabricator’s leftovers can provide big discounts. However, remnant deals are limited on color selection and piece size.
Can I install quartz countertops myself?
With experience, proper tools, and help lifting slabs, DIY installation of quartz is possible. However, pros can install with minimal seams and customize cutouts. Hiring a pro typically costs around $40-100 per hour.
Conclusion
Quartz delivers the high-end appearance of natural stone with more affordability and less maintenance. When budgeting $80-150 per square foot for purchase and professional installation, quartz transforms kitchens and baths with customized luxury. By shopping sales, comparing fabricators, and making cost-effective design choices, homeowners can gain the benefits of quartz within their budget constraints. With strategic planning, you can enjoy beautiful, durable quartz countertops that suit your unique style.