Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects over the past decade. Often touted for their durability, low maintenance, and wide variety of colors and patterns, quartz offers homeowners a stylish and practical alternative to natural stone or laminate. However, with so many options on the market, many homeowners find themselves wondering: how expensive is quartz countertop?
What is Quartz Countertop?
Before delving into the costs associated with quartz countertops, it’s helpful to understand exactly what quartz countertops are. Quartz countertops are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with polyresin and pigments. The quartz content typically makes up 90-94% of the material, while the remaining 6-10% consists of polymers and pigments.
Unlike natural stone countertops which are mined from quarries, quartz slabs are engineered in manufacturing facilities under precise conditions. This allows quartz manufacturers to achieve consistent colors, patterns, and performance. The resin binders make quartz more durable and resistant to damage compared to natural stone. Quartz is also non-porous, making it very stain and scratch resistant.
When shopping for quartz, homeowners will find an incredibly diverse array of colors and patterns. From solid whites and blacks to bold, multicolored stone-like patterns, quartz offers immense design flexibility. This diversity of offerings makes quartz an attractive option for homeowners, builders, and designers looking to achieve a specific aesthetic.
Quartz Countertop Cost Factors
When estimating the cost of quartz countertops for your home, there are several key factors that impact the overall price:
1. Slab Size
Quartz countertops are purchased in slab form, typically measuring 145 square feet for a standard slab. The total size of the countertop area to be covered will determine how many slabs need to be purchased. Larger kitchens may require multiple slabs while a small bathroom vanity may only need a fraction of a slab.
2. Color and Style
There is a tremendous variety of colors, patterns, and styles offered by quartz manufacturers. The most premium, unique, and rare styles tend to be among the most expensive options. For example, slabs that mimic rare natural stone varieties or have intricate artistic patterns tend to cost more than classic white, black, or gray quartz.
3. Brand
The brand of quartz makes a significant impact on cost. Higher-end, luxury brands such as Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone are priced at the upper end of the market. More budget-friendly brands such as MSI and Viatera are priced lower while still offering quality and selection.
4. Fabrication
Fabricating and installing the quartz slab comprises a significant portion of the overall project cost. The fabrication process includes cutting the slab to size, shaping edges, cutouts for sinks, faucets, and appliances, and polishing. Complex projects with intricate edges, seams, or details require more labor. Be sure to factor fabrication and installation into the total cost.
5. Transportation
Transporting the quartz slabs from the distributor to the fabrication facility can add to the overall cost if located far apart. This is especially true for rural areas located far from major cities where distributors are based. Factor geography and transportation distances into the estimate.
6. Thickness
Quartz slabs typically come in 3/4 inch and 1 1/4 inch thicknesses. Thicker slabs tend to cost more not only due to the greater amount of material, but the increased weight and fabrication time required. However, thicker quartz provides a more substantial feel and can better span gaps between cabinets depending on the application.
What is the Average Cost of Quartz Countertops?
With all the variables that go into quartz countertop costs, most homeowners want to know – what is the average total price for a typical quartz countertop installation? According to most sources, the average total installed cost for a quartz countertop is $40-$100 per square foot. This is an average range that accounts for mid-priced quartz, standard fabrication, and installation. To break this down further:
- Quartz Material: The slab material itself will account for $25-$50 per square foot on average. Higher end brands can be $75 per square foot. Budget options start around $20 per square foot.
- Fabrication & Installation: You can expect to pay around $15-$50 per square foot for fabrication and installation. Simpler projects or small countertops will be at the lower end while large kitchens with complex seams and edges will cost more.
- Total average cost: Adding the material and labor costs together, you can expect to pay around $40-$100 per square foot for the total installed price of standard quartz countertops.
As a very rough ballpark for budgeting purposes, for a moderately sized kitchen with 40 square feet of countertop space, at $50 per square foot the total cost would be around $2,000. Actual costs will vary. Be sure to get an itemized estimate from fabricators before committing to a final budget number.
Cost Comparison to Other Countertop Materials
It’s useful to compare quartz pricing to other popular countertop materials:
- Granite: The total installed cost of granite is typically higher than quartz, in the $60-$150 per square foot range. The material itself can be more expensive for rare natural patterns.
- Marble: Marble countertops are also often more expensive than quartz, ranging from $70-$250 per square foot installed. Marble is more delicate and prone to damage however.
- Laminate: Laminate countertops are the most budget-friendly option, typically $20-$50 per square foot installed. While affordable, laminate does not offer the beauty, durability and resale value of quartz or natural stone.
- Solid Surface (Corian): At $40-$100 per square foot total installed, solid surfaces like Corian are competitively priced with quartz. The material lacks the sought-after visual appeal of quartz however.
Compared to these alternatives, quartz often provides the best combination of affordable pricing coupled with durable, attractive styling. The range of $40-$100 per square foot puts it in line with the typical mid-range remodel budget preferred by many homeowners.
Cost savings tips
If your budget is tight, there are ways to reduce the overall cost of your quartz countertop project:
- Opt for a more affordable brand over premium name brand options
- Select a simple, solid color style instead of intricate stone-look patterns
- Choose standard edges instead of decorative ogee or bullnose edges
- Purchase remnants or smaller pieces for projects like bathroom vanities
- Fabricate and install yourself if experienced (saves labor costs)
- Reuse existing cabinets/base if in good shape
Is Quartz Worth the Investment?
At $40 to $100 per square foot installed, quartz countertops certainly aren’t the most budget-friendly option, but they offer significant benefits that can make the investment worthwhile.
Durability – With high quartz content and little porousness, quartz counters are extremely scratch and stain resistant, maintaining their beauty much longer than surfaces like marble or laminate.
Low maintenance – Quartz requires very little maintenance compared to natural stone. Simple cleaning with soap and water is enough for most messes.
Hygienic – The non-porous surface inhibits the growth of bacteria and mold.
Stylish – Quartz offers an almost unlimited array of colors and patterns to suit any design aesthetic. Materials like granite only offer what nature provides.
Resale value – Upscale quartz counters can help attract buyers and increase your home’s resale potential.
Long lifespan – With proper care, quartz counters can last for decades before needing replacement. This makes the initial investment go further.
For many homeowners, the combination of durability, low-maintenance, and stylish design make quartz worth the moderate upfront investment. Going with higher-end materials also means foregoing multiple replacements and remodels over time.
How to Get the Best Deal on Quartz Countertops
To ensure you receive the most competitive price on your quartz countertop project, keep these tips in mind:
- Get quotes from at least 3 different fabricators – More bids allows you to find the best deal. Let each know you are soliciting multiple quotes for leverage.
- Provide a complete job scope – Give fabricators the exact countertop dimensions, number of cutouts, edge styles, and any special requests. More details give accurate quotes.
- Request itemized quotes – Ask to see material and labor costs broken out separately so you can compare and see where price differences lie.
- Use middle-tier brands – Opt for leading mid-range brands like Caeserstone, Cambria, Silestone instead of ultra-premium designers.
- Inquire about remnant availability – Fabricators often have remnants in stock that could work for small jobs like bathroom vanities at a discount.
- Negotiate prices – Don’t be afraid to politely ask fabricators if they can offer a lower price or throw in extras like sinks, installations, etc.
- Avoid peak remodeling seasons – If possible, have bids completed and project scheduled during slower seasons like winter to reduce demand pricing.
With some savvy negotiating and shopping around, there are usually deals to be found making quartz countertops attainable even for budget-conscious homeowners.
How Expensive is Quartz Countertop: Final Thoughts
As we’ve covered, quartz counters range from an average of $40 per square foot on the low end to $100 per square foot for premium quality and installation. Choosing an affordable brand, simple style, and requesting competitive bids are key strategies to lower overall project costs.
While not cheap, a quartz investment of around $2,000 for an average sized kitchen provides homeowners with a durable, low-maintenance, and stylish countertop surface that adds value and lasts for decades. With proper care, quartz countertops offer an outstanding lifespan and return on investment compared to lower-priced options like laminate that must be replaced more frequently.
For homeowners seeking an attractive, hygienic, and durable kitchen or bathroom countertop solution that offers the look of natural stone with more affordability and practicality, quartz countertops deliver impressive quality and style per square foot. With prudent shopping and budgeting, quartz can be within reach for many remodeling budgets.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does basic white quartz cost?
On average, a basic white or solid color quartz countertop without fancy patterns or coloring will cost $25-$50 per square foot for materials. With fabrication and installation, expect to pay $40-$65 per square foot total.
Is Caesarstone more expensive than Silestone?
Caesarstone and Silestone are two of the leading premium quartz brands. While both are priced similarly, Silestone tends to cost $5-$15 less per square foot on average compared to Caesarstone. However, pricing varies by color.
What is the cheapest thickness for quartz?
Quartz countertops come in 3/4 inch and 1 1/4 inch thicknesses typically. The 3/4 inch thickness is the cheapest option but cannot span as far between supports. For smaller installations like bathroom vanities, 3/4 inch may suffice. For heavy usage kitchen counters, 1 1/4 inch provides more durability and flex strength.
Can you install quartz countertops yourself?
With experience and proper tools, it is possible for homeowners to cut and install their own quartz countertops. However, the fabrication process requires precision cutting, edge shaping, and polishing for a professional finish. Hiring a professional fabricator and installer is recommended unless you have the knowledge and equipment.
How long do quartz countertops last compared to granite?
Thanks to minimal porosity and strength of quartz versus the natural stone, quartz countertops will typically last longer than granite with less chance of damage. With proper care, quartz can last upwards of 15-25 years before replacement is needed. Natural granite is more prone to chipping, cracking, and staining over time.
Conclusion
Quartz countertops provide an outstanding combination of beauty, durability, and low maintenance. At an average installed cost of $40-$100 per square foot, quartz represents a meaningful investment for most kitchen or bath remodels but pay off with many years of trouble-free use and enhancement of your home’s aesthetic. With prudent shopping for competitive quotes and utilizing cost-saving techniques, quartz can fit within many remodeling budgets. Consider quartz an investment in your home’s functionality and beauty for the long haul.