Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodels in recent years. Made from engineered stone, quartz combines natural quartz crystals with resins and pigments to create a durable, low-maintenance, and stylish countertop material. But how much does it actually cost to get quartz countertops installed in your home? Here is a detailed overview of the factors that influence the cost of quartz countertops.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, also known as engineered stone countertops, are made from about 90% ground natural quartz blended with polymer resins and pigments. The resins bind the quartz crystals together to form a solid slab, while the pigments add color and pattern.
Some key advantages of quartz countertops:
- Extremely durable – resistant to scratches, stains, heat, and cracks
- Low maintenance – does not need regular sealing like natural stone
- Wide variety of colors and patterns – from solid hues to glittery speckled designs
- Non-porous so does not harbor bacteria
- Heat and stain resistant
Brands like Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone are popular quartz countertop manufacturers.
Factors That Determine the Cost of Quartz Countertops
Several key factors come into play when determining the overall installation cost of quartz countertops in your home:
1. Grade of Quartz
Quartz comes in different quality grades, ranked by clarity and consistency. Higher quality grades have a more uniform appearance.
- Entry-level: This economy grade has more variation and inconsistencies but is the most affordable option. Cost range: $40-$65 per square foot installed.
- Mid-range: The most popular grade with occasional irregularities. Cost range: $65-90 per square foot installed.
- High-end: Premium grade with consistent veining and clarity throughout. Cost range: $90-$120 per square foot installed.
2. Color and Finish
Basic solid quartz colors tend to be cheaper, while bold patterns or flecked finishes add cost due to extra manufacturing work involved. Matte finishes are less expensive than polished, glossy finishes.
3. Thickness
Standard thickness is 3/4 inch, but thicker slabs of 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 inches cost more. Thicker quartz is more durable and sturdy.
4. Edge Styles
Fancy edge profiles like ogee, bevel, bullnose, or dual ellipse cost more to cut than simple eased or square edges. Intricate edges can add $10-$15 per linear foot.
5. Installation Labor
Complex projects with intricate cuts, edges, templating, and installation will have higher labor fees from the countertop company. Average hourly installation rates are $65-$100 per hour.
6. Quartz Brand
Higher-end designer quartz brands like Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone range from $70-$130 per square foot installed. Cheaper brands cost $45-$75 per square foot installed.
Cost Breakdown: Average Price to Install Quartz Countertops
Based on the above factors, here is a typical price breakdown for mid-range quartz countertops installed in the average American kitchen:
- Materials (30 square feet of mid-range quartz at $70 per square foot): $2,100
- Edges (40 linear feet with standard ease edge at $15 per linear foot): $600
- Digital templating and fabrication: $300
- Delivery: $100
- Installation (at $85 per hour with typical 10 hour installation): $850
Total estimated cost: $3,950
Of course, the total price can vary significantly based on the quality of quartz, complexity of the project, edge treatments, and your location. High-end installations with premium quartz and intricate edges can run $6,000-$10,000 or more.
How Thickness Affects the Cost of Quartz Countertops
Quartz slabs typically come in 3/4 inch, 1 1/4 inch, and 1 1/2 inch thicknesses. Here is how thickness impacts installed price:
- 3/4 inch: The standard thickness, provides an excellent balance of aesthetics and affordability. Cost range: $70-$100 per square foot installed.
- 1 1/4 inch: A medium-thick slab that is 20-30% more expensive than 3/4 inch. Offers added durability and visual depth. Cost range: $90-$120 per square foot.
- 1 1/2 inch: A premium extra-thick slab that’s 40-50% more costly than 3/4 inch quartz. Provides maximum sturdiness for heavy use. Cost range: $110-$150 per square foot.
In most residential kitchens, a 3/4 inch slab is sufficiently durable, while 1 1/4 inch is recommended for heavy duty commercial use.
Cost Saving Tips
Here are some ways to get quality quartz countertops on a budget:
- Select an entry-level quartz grade and simple edge style
- Use 3/4 inch thickness instead of thicker slabs
- Install quartz on just part of the countertop, use laminate on the rest
- Purchase remnants or smaller discounted quartz pieces for bar areas
- Choose a simple solid white or light quartz color
- Have the countertop company fabricate templates then do installation yourself
- Provide accurate measurements and template to minimize cuts
Quartz vs. Other Countertop Materials
How does the cost of quartz compare to other popular countertop materials?
- Quartz is comparable in price to granite, which ranges from $60-$150 per square foot installed.
- Quartz is 2-3 times more expensive than laminate at $20-$50 per square foot.
- Quartz is cheaper than materials like marble ($100-$250 per square foot) or soapstone ($70-$100 per square foot).
- Quartz is similar in cost to engineered wood like butcherblock, around $70-$120 per square foot.
While not the cheapest option, quartz provides unparalleled durability and maintenance ease for the price. The 10-15 year lifespan can make it worth the initial investment over cheaper but less durable materials.
FAQ
How much does a 10-foot quartz countertop cost?
For a mid-range quartz slab in 3/4 inch thickness, a 10-foot countertop would cost around $1,400 including fabrication and installation.
Is Caesarstone more expensive than Silestone?
Caesarstone and Silestone are both high-quality premium quartz brands that cost about the same, typically $70-$120 per square foot installed. Silestone may have slightly more pattern and finish options.
Is Cambria quartz worth the extra cost?
Cambria quartz is renowned for its beauty and durability. The premium grade quartz does cost 20-30% more than mid-range options from brands like Caesarstone. Many homeowners feel the extra cost is worthwhile for the top-tier quality and luxury aesthetics Cambria offers.
Can you get cheap quartz countertops?
Yes, choosing an entry-level quartz grade, simple edge, and doing installation yourself can reduce costs to around $40 per square foot. While not the cheapest option, this puts high-quality quartz in reach for many budgets.
Is quartz cheaper than granite?
Quartz and granite tend to have very similar price ranges, from about $60-$150 per square foot installed. Quartz requires less maintenance which can make it more cost effective long term. Granite has more unique natural patterns while quartz offers more color consistency.
Conclusion
With an average installed price of $70-$100 per square foot, quartz countertops offer unbeatable durability and style for the cost. While not the cheapest option, quartz is comparable to materials like granite or engineered wood while requiring less maintenance. Carefully selecting the quartz grade, edges, size, and installation approach allows homeowners to get the beautiful, practical countertops they want at a reasonable budget. Considering its longevity and resilience, quartz is a worthwhile investment to enhance kitchens and bathrooms for years to come.