Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects. Made from engineered stone, quartz offers an attractive, durable, and low-maintenance surface. However, like most home upgrades, installing quartz countertops requires a significant investment. Understanding the factors that influence the cost of installation is key to properly budgeting for a quartz countertop project.
Average Cost to Install Quartz Countertops
The average cost to install quartz countertops ranges from $80 to $100 per square foot, including materials and professional installation. The total expense depends on several variables:
- Type of Quartz: Basic quartz options cost $50-70 per square foot. Premium designer brands range from $100-150 per square foot.
- Edge Profiles: Simple straight edges are the most affordable. Decorative edges like ogee, bevel, and bullnose add $10-15 per linear foot.
- Thickness: Standard 1.5 cm slabs cost less than thicker 2 or 3 cm options.
- Installation: Using an experienced professional costs $40-75 per hour. DIY installation saves on labor but has risks.
- Countertop Size: Total square footage determines materials needed. Larger, complex projects cost more.
- Additional Modifications: Special cuts for sinks or cooktops, integrated lighting, declarative accents, etc. add to the final price.
Considering these factors, most kitchen quartz countertop installations range from $2,500 to $5,500. Bathroom vanity tops cost $500 to $1,500 on average.
Key Factors That Impact Quartz Installation Cost
Quartz Material Cost
The type of quartz material determines the baseline materials cost. Basic quartz starts around $50 per square foot while high-end designer brands can cost over $100 per square foot. The color, pattern, and intricacy of the design impact the price. A complicated quartz pattern requires more labor and expertise to fabricate and install.
Edge Profiles
The edges of a quartz countertop also influence installation cost. A standard square edge adds little cost. More complex edges like beveled, rounded, or ogee edges take more time and skill to cut and polish, adding $10 to $15 per linear foot. Intricate edges can increase the installation cost by 20% or more.
Countertop Thickness
Standard quartz countertops are 1.5 cm thick. At 2 cm or 3 cm, the thicker slabs are more expensive, heavier, and require extra labor to install. Thicker countertops can cost 30% more than a standard 1.5 cm slab.
Size of the Countertops
Larger countertops require more materials, time, and skill to install. Long spans, multiple levels, cutouts, and seam placement also impact cost. Simple countertop layouts around 25 sq. ft. may cost $2,000 while large complex designs over 100 sq. ft. could be $6,000 or more.
DIY vs Professional Installation
Hiring a professional to template, fabricate, and install quartz countertops costs $40 to $75 per hour. DIY installation saves on labor but requires expertise using specialty tools to cut, polish, and mount the heavy slabs. Risks of cracks, improper sealing, and other errors are much higher with DIY installs.
Other Custom Modifications
Added features like integrated sinks, special lighting, declarative metal or stone accents, etc. can add cost. Any special reinforcement needed to support the weight of thicker quartz also adds labor and materials expenses.
What to Expect: Quartz Installation Process
Installing quartz countertops follows a general process:
- Template: The countertop installer takes exact measurements of the existing space. For seamless results, they may also create a template to follow for cutting.
- Fabrication: The fabricator cuts the slabs to specifications, bevels the edges, and creates any special cutouts based on the template.
- Installation: The countertops are secured to the cabinetry using adhesive and silicone caulk. The installer ensures level flat mounting and tight seams.
- Finishing: Silicone sealant is applied around edges and seams for waterproofing. The installer inspects for any cracks or imperfections before considering the job complete.
The entire process typically takes 5-7 business days from template to install. Homeowners should ensure their cabinets are prepared, plumbing and electrical pre-roughed, and the area cleared before installation day.
DIY Installation Tips
While professional installation is recommended, DIYers can install quartz countertops themselves. Here are some tips:
- Use a circular saw with a diamond blade to cut the slabs. Make small gradual cuts to avoid cracking.
- Bevel edges with a wet diamond polishing pad. Take it slow to get clean, smooth results.
- Use 100% clear silicone caulk to adhere slabs to cabinetry. Apply evenly to prevent cracking.
- Carefully level and shim slabs so seams align perfectly. Use C-clamps to hold pieces tightly together.
- Seal all seams and edges with silicone sealant. Inspect for gaps where moisture could penetrate.
- Consider using an epoxy resin glue like Super Glue to reinforce seams for added durability.
Quartz is heavy, hard material that requires patience and skill to install properly. Attempting DIY installation to save on labor costs is only recommended for experienced homeowners.
Maintaining Quartz Countertops
Once installed, quartz countertops are easy to care for. Follow these tips:
- For everyday cleaning, use a mild soap and warm water. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads.
- Disinfect surfaces periodically with diluted bleach or other disinfectants.
- Rinse with clean water and dry with a soft cloth after cleaning.
- Avoid exposing the surface to strong chemicals like paint removers or oven cleaners.
- Use trivets and cutting boards to protect the surface from hot pans or sharp knives.
- Re-seal with silicone caulk yearly or if any cracks appear to prevent water damage.
With proper care and maintenance, quartz countertops will stay beautiful and durable for many years. The key is keeping the surface free of cracks that allow moisture inside.
Is Quartz Worth the Investment?
For most homeowners, quartz provides an attractive and easy-care option that justifies the higher cost compared to materials like laminate. Benefits of quartz countertops include:
- Durability: Quartz withstands chips, scratches, stains, and heat better than natural stone or solid surfaces.
- Low Maintenance: Unlike marble or granite, quartz rarely needs sealing and resists staining or etching.
- Consistent Appearance: The engineered material has uniform coloring and patterning throughout the slab.
- Integrated Sinks: Seamless, molded quartz sinks eliminate crevices where bacteria grow.
- Stylish Options: From natural stone looks to bold colors and patterns, quartz offers on-trend options to suit any style.
- Increased Home Value: Upgrading to quartz countertops can increase a home’s resale value significantly.
For busy kitchens and baths, quartz offers the best combination of good looks, durability, and easy maintenance compared to other countertop materials. Proper installation is key to ensuring quartz countertops last for decades.
Quartz Countertop Cost: Final Takeaways
- Expect to pay around $80-100 per square foot installed for quartz countertops. Total costs for a kitchen range from $2,500 to $5,500 or more.
- The quality of the quartz material, edge profiles, thickness, and overall size impact the installation cost.
- Hiring a professional for template, fabrication, and installation costs $40 to $75 per hour but prevents costly errors.
- With proper use and care, quartz countertops are durable, stain-resistant, and low maintenance for decades after installation.
- For most homeowners, the advantages of quartz countertops make them a worthwhile investment despite the higher initial cost compared to materials like laminate.