Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom renovations in recent years. Often seen as a high-end alternative to granite or marble, quartz offers some distinct advantages that make it worth the investment for many homeowners. But exactly how much does a quartz countertop cost per square foot? Let’s take a closer look.

What is Quartz?

Quartz countertops, also sometimes referred to as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz content typically ranges from 90-94%. This combination results in a material that is non-porous, stain resistant, and durable.

The resins allow quartz to be molded into slabs that can be cut to size for installation as countertops. The pigments introduce a wide variety of color and pattern options. Many quartz slabs are designed to mimic the look of natural stone like marble or granite. But unlike natural stone, the patterns in quartz go all the way through the material, so chips and scratches are less noticeable.

Quartz Countertop Cost Per Square Foot

The cost of quartz countertops ranges from $40 to $100 per square foot installed. This covers both materials and professional installation. The exact price can vary based on the brand, color, and texture chosen. Some other factors that affect overall cost include:

Quartz type: Basic quartz options start around $40 per square foot. Higher-end designer brands can cost up to $100 per square foot.
Color and pattern: More unique colors and patterns tend to cost more than basic white or neutral options. However, most quartz has some element of design to mimic natural stone.
Thickness: Standard thickness is 3/4″. Going up to 1 1/4″ or 1 1/2″ thick will increase cost about $10-15 per square foot.
Edge profiles: Straight polished edges add little cost. Specialty edges like bullnose or ogee can add $5-10 per linear foot.
Backsplashes: Adding a 4” backsplash typically costs around $10-20 per linear foot. Full height backsplashes cost $25-50 per linear foot.
Fabrication: Simple countertop layouts without seams or cutouts cost less. Custom shapes, seams, and cutouts for sinks raise fabrication costs.
Installation: Basic installation starts around $40 per hour. Complex jobs or areas far from the fabrication shop cost more.

Factors That Affect Quartz Countertop Prices

There are several variables that go into the final price of quartz countertops. Being aware of these factors allows homeowners to plan their budget accordingly.

Brand

Quartz countertop prices largely come down to the brand selected. Entry-level options from Home Depot or IKEA start around $40 per square foot. Mid-range brands like Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone range from $55-70 per square foot. High-end designer quartz from companies like Pietrafina or Compac costs $80-100 per square foot.

The product lines within each brand also impact cost. Most manufacturers make an affordable option along with premium designer collections. Premium collections feature unique colors and patterns that mimic luxurious natural stone. These are priced at the higher end of each brand’s range.

Color and Pattern

Outside of the brand, the aesthetic look of the quartz has the biggest impact on price. Simple white or neutral colored quartz provides a clean, basic look at the lowest cost. However, quartz is popular because it offers literally hundreds of color and pattern options.

Dramatic colors like emerald green or vibrant blue cost more than white or beige. But most quartz has some degree of pattern that resembles natural stone. These patterns add cost, but still keep the price in the mid-range. High-end designer patterns with lots of variation and movement are one of the biggest drivers of premium pricing.

Thickness

The standard thickness for quartz countertops is 3/4”. This provides an ideal combination of durability and affordability for most applications. In high traffic kitchens, a thicker 1 1/4” quartz countertop adds strength and longevity for about $10-15 more per square foot.

Some designers prefer the look of an ultra-thick 1 1/2” quartz countertop. However, the additional cost may not be warranted unless you specifically want the hefty appearance. Anything thicker than 1 1/2” moves into specialty slab territory and increases cost exponentially.

Edge Profiles

The edge of the countertop plays a big role in the final look. A simple straight polished edge can be done on any quartz at basically no extra cost. Other edge profiles add complexity to the fabrication process.

Waterfall edges, where the quartz curves over the side of the counter, are very popular right now. Bullnose edges with a rounded profile add a softer, classical feel. These specialized edges add $5-10 per linear foot to the overall price.

Backsplashes

Backsplashes prevent water and debris from getting behind the counters. Full backsplashes are constructed from the same quartz slab as the countertop. A standard 4” backsplash adds about $10-20 per linear foot. Going up to a full backsplash can cost $25-50 per linear foot depending on height.

The main decision here is material. Quartz, ceramic tile, glass tile, and stainless steel are all common backsplash materials that vary in price. Homeowners should think about whether they want the backsplash to match or contrast with the countertop.

Fabrication

Simple countertop layouts usually don’t add to the price. But specialty fabrications like curved countertops, seams between slabs, or cutouts for sinks will raise costs. The fabrication shop charges for the extra labor and materials needed to cut quartz to custom specifications.

Anything beyond a straightforward rectangle adds hours of production time to precisely cut the quartz and polish the edges. Complex kitchens with multiple seams or bathrooms with intricate curves will fall on the higher end of the fabrication cost spectrum.

Installation

For basic installations in easy to access areas, homeowners may pay around $40 per hour for labor. This assumes a straightforward job located near the fabrication shop. Long drives to distant locations or complicated installations with tricky access add hourly labor costs.

Quality installation prevents leaks, cracks, and alignment issues over time. So while DIY quartz countertop installation is possible for some, paying the premium for professional installation is usually worth the peace of mind on an investment this large.

Pros and Cons of Quartz Countertops

Aside from the cost of quartz, most homeowners are curious about the pros and cons compared to other natural stone or solid surface countertop materials. Here is a quick rundown of key factors to consider:

Pros

Extremely durable and scratch resistant surface
Stain proof and non-porous
Easy maintenance with no need to seal
Hundreds of colors and patterns
Consistent color and finishing between slabs
Molding capabilities allow specialized shapes
Seamless appearance possible with engineered quartz

Cons

Higher cost than laminate or tile
Less customization options compared to natural stone slabs
Limited number of manufacturers
Can chip on edges if impacted
Requires professional fabrication and installation
Resins may be sensitivity for those with chemical intolerance

How Long Do Quartz Countertops Last?

With proper maintenance, quartz countertops last upwards of 15-25 years. The non-porous material resists scratching, staining, and etching better than granite or marble. But chips or cracks are possible if subjected to significant impact. Avoiding abrasive cleaners preserves the polished finish.

Quartz does not require periodic sealing like natural stone. The resins make quartz impervious to moisture. Regular cleaning with soap and water keeps quartz countertops looking like new for decades after installation.

Maintaining Quartz Countertops

Caring for quartz countertops is simple:

Clean regularly using a mild soap and water
Avoid abrasive cleaners or pads that could dull the finish
Don’t let spills sit – wipe up acids like lemon juice quickly
Use a cutting board to avoid dulling knives on the surface
Handle the countertop gently to prevent impact cracks or chips

Quartz resists most staining and etching without the need for sealants. But a yearly application of a penetrating sealer adds extra protection. Basic maintenance keeps quartz countertops in flawless condition for over 15 years.

Is Quartz Worth the Extra Cost?

For most homeowners, quartz provides an ideal balance between beauty, durability, and maintenance. The higher cost often pays off in increased longevity, easy upkeep, and resale value. Similar granite or marble would require professional sealing every 1-2 years to achieve the same stain resistance.

The range of colors, patterns, and textures available in quartz accommodates nearly any design style. Consistency between slabs prevents surprises or mismatches. Engineered quartz simplifiesinstallation compared to natural stone.

While quartz costs more upfront than laminate or ceramic tile, it often increases home value beyond the initial investment. With proper care, quartz countertops outlive many homeowners. For those wanting a low maintenance, stylish, and durable countertop, quartz provides excellent value.

Average Quartz Countertop Costs

To summarize average quartz countertop costs:

Good pricing range: $55 – $70 per square foot
Premium pricing range: $80 – $100 per square foot
Average overall cost: $65 – $85 per square foot installed

At the middle to upper end of the price range, quartz delivers outstanding performance and aesthetics that enhance kitchens and bathrooms for decades. While budget quartz options start under $50 per square foot, investing in quality from reputable brands results in a handsome, hassle-free countertop.

Cost Comparison to Other Countertop Materials

To understand the value of quartz countertops, it helps to compare against other popular kitchen and bathroom countertop options.

Among natural stone options, quartz occupies the middle ground for pricing. Granite and especially marble cost more for the prestige and uniqueness. But quartz eliminates the sealing and etching issues that plague natural stone. This makes quartz an ideal blending of durability, low maintenance, and beauty.

FAQs

How much does a quartz countertop cost for a 10×10 kitchen?

For a 10 foot x 10 foot kitchen, quartz countertops will cost $650 – $1,000 installed. Exact pricing depends on thickness, edges, color/pattern, and fabrication complexity. Expect to budget around $800 for a mid-range quartz in a 10×10 kitchen.

Is quartz cheaper than granite?

In most cases, quartz runs $10-30 less per square foot than granite. Durability, consistency, and easy maintenance also give quartz an advantage. But premium exotic granites can be priced on par with high-end quartz.

Should I get 2cm or 3cm quartz?

3cm (1 1/4”) quartz is the recommended thickness for kitchen countertops. 2cm (3/4”) quartz costs a little less but is more prone to cracks or damage over time. Go 3cm for high traffic areas that need to stand up to daily use.

Can you have seams in quartz countertops?

Seams are possible with quartz countertops, but best avoided. Long countertop runs may require sections to be seamed together. Mismatched quartz patterns or obvious seams should be addressed before installation.

Is Caesarstone or Silestone better?

Caesarstone and Silestone are both quality mid-range quartz brands. Caesarstone offers more unique high-end patterns. Silestone is known for exceptional durability. Both provide excellent stain and scratch resistance.

Is Cambria quartz worth the extra money?

Cambria is considered a top of the line quartz brand. Prices run $80-100 per square foot. The high-quality premium materials and reputation for service may justify the cost for some buyers.

Does Home Depot install quartz countertops?

Home Depot does offer in-house installation services for the quartz brands they sell. This includes budget-friendly options like MSI and Viatera. Installation costs about $40/hr after purchasing the countertop.

The Bottom Line

Quartz delivers the ideal mix of aesthetics, durability, and ease of maintenance. While not the cheapest option, quartz stands up better over time than most materials. The $55 – $100 per square foot investment pays dividends for decades in lasting beauty and reliability. For most homeowners, quartz offers an ideal intersection between design and practicality.

Quartz Countertop Cost Breakdown

Installing new quartz countertops can transform the look of a kitchen or bathroom. But before committing, it helps to understand what goes into the cost. Here is a closer look at the elements that make up quartz countertop pricing.

Quartz Material Costs

The biggest portion of the total budget goes to the physical slabs of quartz. Material costs account for 50-70% of the total project price.

Quartz slab cost per square foot:

Low end brands: $40 – $50
Mid-range brands: $55 – $70
High end brands $80 – $100

Material prices vary widely between affordable options from home improvement stores compared to luxury designer brands. Homeowners should carefully compare warranties, color choices, and durability between price points.

Fabrication Costs

Fabrication transforms the raw slabs into finished countertops. The work involved depends on the complexity of the project.

Typical quartz fabrication costs:

Basic cutout and polish: $20 – $30 per linear foot
Edge profiling: $5+ per linear foot
Seams between slabs: $10 – $15 per seam
Cutouts for sinks / cooktops: $50 – $200 each

Simple rectangle kitchen islands may just need cutting to size and edge polishing. Bathrooms or kitchens with specialty shapes require intricate fabrication.

Installation Costs

Professionals strongly recommend hiring experienced installers to get countertops perfectly level and prevent cracking.

Quartz installation costs typically run:**

$40 – $55 per hour
$400 – $800 total for full kitchen

Location impacts total installation time needed. Simple DIY can save on labor but has risks.

Additional Costs

Other items that add to the total quartz countertop budget include:

Backsplashes: $10 – $50 per linear foot
Additional thickness: Adds $10 – $15 per square foot
Premium edges: $5 – $15 per linear foot
Shipping charges: For slabs sourced remotely
Removal of old countertops: $50 – $150

Granite vs Quartz Cost

In most cases, installed quartz runs $50 – $100 per square foot for a mid to high-end project. Granite is comparable, averaging $60 – $150 per square foot installed.

While granite can exceed the cost of premium quartz, most quartz runs slightly less than granite overall. The tradeoff comes in maintenance, where no sealing is needed with quartz countertops.

Cost to Install Quartz Countertops by Size

Here are rough estimates for average quartz countertop installation costs by size:

Small bathroom (25 sq ft): $1,500 – $2,500
Condo kitchen (35 sq ft): $2,500 – $3,500
Average kitchen (40 sq ft): $3,000 – $4,000
Large kitchen (60 sq ft): $4,000 – $6,000
Sprawling kitchen (100+ sq ft): $6,000 – $10,000

Actual costs depend on the factors already outlined like brand and layout complexity. But these figures give a general budget baseline for quartz countertop installation.

Strategies to Reduce Quartz Countertop Costs

For homeowners on a tight budget, a few options to lower overall quartz costs include:

Choosing low-end quartz brands
Standard 3/4” thickness instead of thicker material
Fewer decorative edge profiles
Smaller backsplashes or alternate materials like tile
Simple shape without seams or intricate cuts
DIY installation if comfortable

Going with more affordable options for certain elements allows investment in thevisual appeal of the quartz itself. Just be wary of sacrificing too much quality or longevity to save money upfront.

How Much Does Quartz Countertop Cost Per Square Foot?