Quartz countertops have become increasingly popular in UK kitchens and bathrooms over the past decade. With their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance, it’s easy to see why. But before installing quartz in your home, it’s important to understand the cost. Here is a detailed overview of quartz countertop pricing in the UK.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, also known as engineered stone, are made from crushed quartz particles combined with resin and pigments. The result is a hard, non-porous material that is resistant to scratches, stains, heat, and water.
Some key benefits of quartz:
- Extremely durable and stain resistant
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Available in a wide range of colors and patterns
- Does not need to be sealed like natural stone
- Resistant to bacteria growth
- Heat and scratch resistant
Brands such as Silestone, Caesarstone, and Compac are popular quartz manufacturers.
Factors Affecting Quartz Countertop Cost
Several factors determine the overall installation cost of quartz countertops in the UK:
1. Brand
The brand of quartz makes a big difference in price, with premium designers commanding higher prices. Expect to pay more for Silestone, Caesarstone, Compac, and other top brands. Lower-end off-brand quartz is more budget-friendly.
2. Color and Pattern
Plain white or solid color quartz provides the most affordable option. Unique colors and patterns like marble detailing, speckles, and swirls will increase the price.
3. Edge Profiles
You can choose different edge profiles for your countertop, from standard eased/pencil round edges to more ornate ogee, bevel, and bullnose designs. More complex edges add labour and material costs.
4. Thickness
Standard quartz thickness is 2cm. Going up to 3cm thickness provides more depth and durability for heavy usage areas like kitchens. 4cm+ is best for counters that need to span a long distance without seams. Thicker quartz costs more.
5. Installation
Hiring a professional to template, fabricate, and install your quartz adds labour fees on top of the material cost. Complex designs and edge work will increase installation time and expense.
6. Backsplashes and Additional Features
Adding matching quartz backsplashes and special features like cutouts for sinks/appliances will boost the total project cost.
Quartz Countertop Cost Per M2
On average, expect to pay £400-£600 per m2 for prefabricated quartz countertops from a reputable supplier. Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Lower-end brands: £400-£450 per m2
- Mid-range brands: £450-£550 per m2
- Premium brands: £550-£600+ per m2
These rates are inclusive of materials, fabrication, and installation. Prices may be higher if you select rare colors or designs. Thicker quartz, intricate edges, and exotic patterns can increase the per m2 cost.
As a very rough estimate, a medium-sized kitchen countertop may need 5 linear metres of coverage. At £500 per m2, that translates to £2,500 for materials and installation.
However, every kitchen requires different measurements, so it’s best to get an accurate quote for your specific project.
Factors That Impact Total Installation Cost
While the per m2 rate provides a general guide on pricing, your total cost will depend on several additional factors:
- Total surface area – Measure linear meters needed for countertops, islands, backsplashes. More coverage equals higher cost.
- Edge upgrades – Fancy edges like ogee/bullnose are pricier to fabricate.
- Cutouts – Adding cutouts for sinks and appliances requires expert fabrication. Each cutout adds cost.
- Seams – Seams are needed for large spans. Minimise seams to reduce fabrication time/effort.
- Travel distance – Countertop installers may charge extra fees for long travel distances.
- Removal of old countertop – This adds demo and disposal costs if swapping an existing countertop.
To determine your total installed price, get an itemised quote from a reputable quartz fabricator/installer. Provide them with exact measurements and your desired specifications.
Cost Saving Tips
Here are some ways to get the look of quartz countertops on a budget:
- Opt for a mid-range brand over premium options
- Choose a white, solid, or minimal pattern design
- Stick with standard thickness (2cm)
- Minimise seams and cutouts
- Install backsplashes separately (DIY or use glass/tile)
- Consider prefabricated countertops to reduce fabrication fees
- Hire experienced installers to get it right the first time
Even with cost-saving measures, expect to invest at least £400 per m2 for quartz countertops fitted by professionals. This premium material adds long-lasting beauty and hassle-free maintenance to any kitchen or bath.
FAQs on Quartz Countertops Cost
Is it cheaper to install quartz yourself?
In most cases, a DIY quartz installation will save on labour but increase the risk of cracks, misaligned seams, and other errors. Hiring a professional to template, fabricate, and install typically costs a few hundred pounds. This investment helps ensure a flawless, long-lasting result.
Does quartz need to be sealed?
No. Unlike natural stone, quartz countertops are non-porous so sealing is not required. This makes maintenance much easier.
Is quartz more expensive than granite?
Quartz pricing is comparable to mid-range and premium natural granite. In general granite is cheaper on the low-end, while quartz offers more consistency in pattern, finish, and durability.
How long will a quartz countertop last?
With proper care, quartz countertops can easily last 15-25 years. Many come with 10 or 15 year manufacturer warranties. Their longevity and minimal maintenance make them a sound investment.
Can you repair quartz countertops?
Quartz is resistant to cracks and damage. But minor repairs are possible. Contact the manufacturer or installer for any warranty repairs. For out of warranty damage, quartz repair kits are available but have limited effectiveness.
Conclusion
While not the cheapest option, quartz countertops offer unparalleled durability and aesthetic appeal that make them a valuable investment in your home’s kitchen or bath. Expect to budget around £400-£600 per m2 for a quality quartz installation by an experienced professional. Careful measurement, minimal seams and cutouts, and smart design choices can help reduce overall project costs. With some savvy planning, it’s possible to get the high-end quartz look you want at a price that works for your budget.