Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects in recent years. Often referred to as “engineered stone,” quartz countertops are made from crushed quartz combined with resins and pigments to create a durable, low-maintenance, and stylish surface. But how much do quartz countertops actually cost? In this complete guide, we will break down the different factors that impact quartz countertop pricing so you can determine the expected cost for your next remodeling project.
What Impacts The Cost of Quartz Countertops?
Several key factors determine the installed price of quartz countertops in your home:
Quartz Slab Cost
The type of quartz material you select will be the biggest driver of cost. Quartz is priced per square foot based on the brand, pattern, thickness, and color. Basic white or beige quartz may run $50 per square foot while premium designer brands can cost $150 per square foot or more. Unique patterns and colors also command higher prices.
Popular quartz brands include:
- Silestone
- Caesarstone
- Cambria
- Viatera
- LG Viatera
- DuPont Zodiaq
- Quartz Master
Expect to pay $40-$100 per square foot for most quality quartz materials. The thicker the slab and more intricate the pattern, the higher the cost.
Installation Cost
In addition to the quartz slab price, installation is required to cut your countertops to size, polish the edges, fasten them correctly, and mount them in your space. Installation averages $40-$100 per hour depending on your location and the complexity of the job. Simple countertop installations may take 5-10 hours while large, intricate projects can take 25+ hours.
Countertop Layout
The total square footage of your counters will multiply the per square foot cost of the quartz slab and installation time required. Larger, complex kitchens with multiple countertop sections, custom edges, backsplashes, and specialty shapes will drive the budget up.
On average, expect to pay:
- $1,500 to $3,500 for a small kitchen (up to 30 sq.ft of countertops).
- $3,500 to $7,000 for a medium kitchen (30 – 50 sq.ft).
- $7,000 to $14,000 for a large, premium kitchen (more than 50 sq.ft).
Unique edges, curves, backsplashes, and specialty shapes can also add $500+ in extra fabrication and installation costs.
Contractor Markup
Most homeowners hire a contractor or installer to source the materials and handle the installation. It’s common for the contractor to mark up both the slab materials and their labor 25-50% over the wholesale costs to build in their project management fee and profit margin.
Location
Like all home services, location impacts the hourly rates you’ll pay. Quartz countertop installation will be most affordable in small towns and rural areas, moderately priced in suburbs, and carry a premium in major metropolitan areas.
Average Quartz Countertop Costs
Taking all these factors together, the typical total installed cost for quartz countertops ranges from $80 – $140 per square foot.
To put this in context, here are the average costs for some common quartz countertop projects:
- Small galley kitchen – 10 linear ft of counters at 25″ depth. Total approx. 30 sq.ft.
- Quartz slab cost: $1,500 ($50 sq.ft x 30 sq.ft)
- Installation: $1,200 (10 hours x $120 per hour)
- Total: $2,700
- Medium L-shaped kitchen – 15 linear ft of counters at 25″ depth. Total approx. 45 sq.ft.
- Quartz slab cost: $4,500 ($100 sq.ft x 45 sq.ft)
- Installation: $1,800 (15 hours x $120 per hour)
- Total: $6,300
- Large U-shaped kitchen – 25 linear ft of counters at 25″ depth. Total approx. 75 sq.ft.
- Quartz slab cost: $7,500 ($100 sq.ft x 75 sq.ft)
- Installation: $3,000 (25 hours x $120 per hour)
- Total: $10,500
- Bathroom vanity – 8 linear ft of counter at 22″ depth. Total approx. 15 sq.ft.
- Quartz slab cost: $750 ($50 sq.ft x 15 sq.ft)
- Installation: $600 (5 hours x $120 per hour)
- Total: $1,350
As you can see, the total price can vary dramatically based on the size and complexity of your space. It’s always smart to get an itemized estimate from 2-3 local countertop installation pros to compare bids on your specific project.
Factors That Increase Quartz Countertop Prices
Beyond the base size and layout of your counters, several other options can increase the cost of quartz:
- Thicker Slabs – While 3/4″ is standard, going up to 1 1/4″ or 1 1/2″ thickness adds sturdiness and visual appeal for a 10-20% upcharge.
- Intricate Edge Profiles – Decorative ogee, chamfered, or beveled edges cost more in materials and labor.
- Full Backsplashes – Integrated 4-6″ backsplashes rather than just a buildup behind sinks/cooktops.
- Specialty Shapes – Anything beyond rectangular counters like curves, angles, and cutouts cost extra.
- Premium Brands – Designer quartz lines from Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone can be 2-3x the price of budget options.
- Rush Orders – Expedited fabrication and install for faster turnaround carries a premium.
Factors That Decrease Quartz Countertop Prices
On the flip side, you may be able to reduce quartz costs by:
- Opting for a neutral solid color rather than an intricate pattern.
- Keeping a 3/4″ thickness rather than going thicker.
- Choosing a straightfront edge instead of decorative profiles.
- Using quartz only for key areas like a kitchen island rather than all counters.
- Supplying your own sink and cooktop rather than fabricating those cutouts.
- Grouping installations in multiple rooms to reduce labor costs.
- Comparing bids and negotiating prices from different quartz fabricators.
- Purchasing remnants for small projects like laundry rooms.
- Shopping end of year sales when dealers are unloading inventory.
Quartz vs Granite vs Marble Countertops
How does the cost of quartz compare to natural stone countertops like granite and marble?
Quartz is generally priced between granite and marble:
- Granite countertops range from $80 to $150 per sq.ft installed. The hardest natural stone, it offers incredible beauty and durability. Cost varies based on the stone color and pattern.
- Quartz countertops range from $100 to $140 sq.ft installed. With consistent color and zero porosity, quartz requires very little maintenance. More affordable than exotic granite.
- Marble countertops range from $70 to $100 per sq.ft installed. Prized for gorgeous veining but requires frequent sealing. Lower cost but higher maintenance than other stones.
While granite and marble offer unique natural patterns, the manmade construction of quartz lends itself to consistent colors and durable non-porous surfaces at an attractive mid-range price point for most homeowners.
Should You Choose Quartz for Your Countertops?
Quartz has grown exponentially in popularity in recent years – and for good reason! The combination of aesthetics, durability, and affordability make it an ideal surface for kitchens and bathrooms. Key benefits of quartz include:
🛠️ Extremely durable – Made from crushed quartz and resin so it can withstand heavy usage without scratching or staining. No sealing required!
💎 Wide range of colors and styles – Mimics high end granite, marble, and natural stone but with more color consistency. Hundreds of patterns available.
⚖️ Perfect balance of cost and value – Less expensive than natural stone but higher quality than laminates. Gets you more “bang for your buck” than granite or marble.
🧼 Low maintenance – Never needs sealing or polishing. Easy to keep clean. Simply wipe with soap and water.
🏘️ Increases resale value – Upscale quartz counters appeal to home buyers and give your kitchen or bath an updated, high-end feel.
Of course, quartz has some downsides to weigh as well before making your decision:
- Can chip or crack if subjected to heavy impact.
- Limited to solid colors or patterns engineered by the manufacturer. No natural variation.
- Higher price tag than affordable options like laminate.
But for most homeowners, the PROs outweigh the CONs and quartz often provides the ideal balance of beauty, durability, and value.
Quartz Countertop Price Comparison Chart
To visualize the cost differences between popular quartz brands and materials, here is a pricing comparison chart:
| Brand | Price Per Square Foot | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Caesarstone | $70 – $100 | High-end; large color selection |
| Cambria | $80 – $120 | Stylish designs; matte & glossy finishes |
| Silestone | $50 – $100 | Diverse colors; moderate pricing |
| Viatera | $70 – $150 | High-end & unique patterns |
| LG Viatera | $55 – $75 | Affordable version of Viatera |
| DuPont Zodiaq | $40 – $80 | Budget-friendly; smaller color selection |
| IKEA | $50 – $75 | Very affordable; limited styles |
| Home Depot | $40 – $75 | House brands; low prices |
| Lowe’s | $35 – $100 | Affordable in-stock slabs |
| Quartz Master | $65 – $100 | Mid-range pricing; wide selection |
This gives you an idea of the cost differences between low-cost quartz suppliers like IKEA and Home Depot up to higher-end designer brands like Viatera and Cambria. Prices overlap in many cases, so be sure to compare material options rather than assuming a brand’s quality or price point.
How to Get the Best Deal on Quartz Countertops
Looking to score savings on your next quartz project? Here are great tips to get the lowest price:
- Get quotes from 3-5 local countertop fabricators – compare their slab costs and labor rates.
- Buy during sales – look for year-end clearances and discontinued styles.
- Bundle multiple rooms – combine kitchen and bathrooms to reduce installation fees.
- Supply your own sink & cooktop – skip these cutouts to simply fabrication.
- Consider low-cost quartz alternatives – brands like IKEA offer cheaper stone.
- Purchase remnants for small projects – great for laundry rooms or wet bars.
- Select affordable edge & thickness options – pick straight edges and standard 3/4″ slab.
- Negotiate discounts for volume – work in free backsplashes, sinks, etc.
- Pay 50% deposit, 50% upon install – avoid full payment until the job is complete.
And be sure to read contracts carefully and understand what is/isn’t included in the quoted price before signing. It’s also wise to confirm who will haul away old countertops and handle plumbing/electrical disconnects/reconnects.
Popular Quartz Brands
If you’re ready to choose a quartz supplier for your next project, these are some of the top brands to consider:
Caesarstone
One of the pioneers of engineered quartz surfaces, Caesarstone offers a vast array of colors and patterns like Metropolitan, Rugged Concrete, and White Attica. Prices range from $70 – $100 per square foot.
Cambria
Known for matte and glossy finishes, Cambria’s designs mimic natural stone with delicate veining. Styles like Brittanicca, Ella, and Seagrove run $80 – $120 per square foot installed.
Silestone
This popular brand caters to all budgets with good-quality affordable options starting around $50 per square foot up to exotic designer collections topping $100 per square foot.
Viatera
Viatera creates unique quartz with striking aesthetics thanks to innovative manufacturing processes. Their one-of-a-kind styles command premium pricing of $70 to over $100 per square foot.
DuPont Zodiaq
One of the first engineered quartz brands, Zodiaq offers budget-friendly options starting under $50 per square foot. Fewer exotic styles but excellent durability.
And retailers like IKEA, Home Depot, Lowe’s and more all offer affordable house-brand quartz usually priced between $40-$75 per square foot installed.
The Bottom Line
Quartz delivers upscale aesthetics and low maintenance at mid-range prices between granite and marble. Expect to invest $80 – $140 per square foot for most quality quartz countertops installed. Exact costs depend on the size and layout of your counters, chosen quartz material, edge profiles, backsplashes, location, and more. As a decorative yet practical option for kitchen and bath remodeling, quartz is hard to beat!
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to some common questions homeowners have about the cost of quartz countertops:
How Much Does Quartz Cost Compared to Granite?
Quartz pricing averages $100 to $140 per square foot installed versus $80 to $150 for granite. So quartz generally costs a bit less than granite while offering exceptional durability and lower maintenance.
What Thickness of Quartz Countertop Should I Get?
The standard quartz thickness is 3/4” which is suitable for most residential uses. Go up to 1 1/4” or 1 1/2” only if you need extremely sturdy counters for heavy commercial use. 3CM is usually the best balance of visual appeal and affordability.
Is Quartz Cheaper Than Marble?
Yes, quartz is a more affordable yet still upscale alternative to marble. Quartz averages $100 to $140 sq.ft installed compared to $70 to $100 for marble. Quartz requires less sealing than porous marble as well.
Should I Get Integrated or Separate Backsplash?
Integrated backsplashes are easier to keep clean as crumbs don’t fall behind the counters. But separate backsplashes allow you to use different materials like tile or accent colors. Integrated is simpler while separate offers more design flexibility.
Can Quartz Chip or Crack?
While extremely durable, quartz can chip from heavy impact or crack if excess force is applied. However it does not crack spontaneously due to temperature changes. Use cutting boards and treat your counters with care to prevent damage.
Is Quartz a Good Choice for Bathroom Vanities?
Absolutely! The water-resistant non-porous surface makes quartz ideal for bathrooms. It won’t stain from makeup or dyes. Just avoid glossy finishes which show water spots and fingerprints. Matte or textured quartz works best.
Conclusion
We hope this guide has broken down exactly what impacts quartz countertop pricing and what cost ranges you can expect. While an investment, quality quartz pays off for years to come with its stylish durability and easy maintenance. Taking the time to shop quartz options, get multiple installation bids, and negotiate pricing will ensure you get the best value for your kitchen or bath remodeling project.