Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodels in recent years. But like most home improvements, the cost can vary quite a bit depending on the specifics of your project. Here is an in-depth look at what factors affect quartz countertop pricing, along with example cost ranges to help you budget for your new countertop installation.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes called engineered stone countertops, are made from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz provides strength and durability, while the resins allow the material to be molded into countertop slabs.
Benefits of quartz countertops include:
- Highly durable and scratch resistant
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Resistant to stains, burns, and etching
- Available in a wide variety of colors and patterns
- Non-porous so does not require sealing
Quartz offers the look of natural stone with more consistency in color and patterning. And unlike granite or marble, quartz does not need to be regularly sealed. This makes it an excellent low-maintenance option.
Quartz Countertop Cost Factors
Many variables affect what you’ll pay for quartz countertops. Prices range from $50 per square foot on the low end, up to $150 or more per square foot for premium brands and more complex installations. The main factors that influence cost include:
Quartz Material Grade
There are different quality grades of quartz, from budget options to high-end designer brands. The more unique the pattern and color, the more you can expect to pay. Some examples of quartz grades include:
- Basic: Simple solid colors and minimal patterning, $50-70 per square foot.
- Standard: More interesting color variations and bolder veining, $70-100 per square foot.
- Premium: Unique designs and colors like marble looks, $100-150+ per square foot.
Color and Pattern
As mentioned above, unique colors and patterns cost more. So opting for a basic solid white or light grey quartz will be the most affordable route. But dramatic dark colors or heavily veined “marbleized” quartz will increase the price.
Thickness
Most residential quartz countertops are either 3/4″ or 1 1/4″ thick. Thicker slabs are more expensive but provide more visual mass and sturdiness. Thinner options can work for simple flat installations.
Edge Profiles
Squared off sides keep costs down. More decorative edge treatments like bevels, ogees, and laminated edges add labor and expense.
Backsplashes
Integrating a coordinating quartz backsplash adds cost but creates a seamless look. Tile or other alternate backsplash materials help reduce the budget.
Cut-Outs and Special Shaping
Standard countertop installations on rectangular bases are simple. But special cut-outs for sinks or cooktops, L-shaped layouts, and curved designs take more time and labor to get right.
Installation Complexity
Removing old countertops, alterations to cabinetry, and other atypical prep work beyond a routine installation can drive up project costs.
Average Quartz Countertop Costs
With so many variables in play, it’s impossible to give an exact quartz countertop price per square foot. But here are some typical ranges you can expect for an average quality mid-grade quartz installed by a professional:
- Basic Kitchen Remodel: $75-$100 per square foot
- Large Kitchen with Special Shaping: $100-$125 per square foot
- Bathroom Vanities: $100-$125 per square foot
- High-End Premium Quartz: $125-$150+ per square foot
These prices assume using a reputable fabricator for manufacturing and experienced installers. Be wary of quotes well below these averages, as quality may suffer.
Cost to Install Quartz Countertops
For a typical 10×10 kitchen with 30 square feet of counter space, you’ll pay in the range of $2,250 to $4,500 for materials and professional installation of quartz countertops.
Here’s an overview of costs for a standard quartz countertop installation:
- Quartz Material: $75 to $150 per square foot
- Fabrication: $200-$500
- Installation: $200-$400
- Additional incidentals: $100-$300 (sink/faucet modifications, permitting fees, etc)
Fabrication involves custom cutting your slabs and preparing them for installation. This normally costs $150-$200 per slab. Most kitchens require 2 slabs.
Installation fees vary based on complexity, with more intricate jobs costing up to $100 per hour. Expect $200-$400 for basic installations.
How to Save on Quartz Countertop Costs
If your budget is tight, there are ways to reduce the price of quartz countertops:
- Opt for a basic solid color quartz rather than dramatic patterns.
- Use a smaller edge profile and standard 90 degree corners.
- Consider 3/4″ thickness instead of 1 1/4″ if suitable for your cabinets.
- Install backsplashes and special cut-outs yourself after countertops are in place.
- Avoid any decorative flourishes like laminated edges.
- Shop around for the best deals from fabricators and installers.
- Provide your own sink/faucet to avoid any markups.
- Purchase remnants for smaller surfaces like bathroom vanities.
Quartz Countertop Cost FAQs
How much does quartz cost compared to granite?
Quartz typically costs $50-100 per square foot. Granite averages $60-150 per square foot. While material prices overlap, installation tends to be more straightforward for quartz. Overall costs for basic options are comparable.
Is Caesarstone more expensive than Cambria quartz?
Cambria tends to cost $20-30 more per square foot than Caesarstone on average. Both are quality options, but Cambria offers more unique high-end styles.
Can you install quartz countertops yourself?
In theory, a DIY install is possible. But it requires extreme precision when cutting, seam placement, and fitting quartz around sinks/faucets. Hiring a pro is highly recommended to avoid cracked slabs or uneven seams from DIY mistakes.
How thick should quartz countertops be?
3/4″ thickness works for simple flat layouts, while 1 1/4″ provides more heft and strength for heavily used surfaces. Thicker quartz costs $10-15 more per square foot but is more durable long-term.
Conclusion
Quartz delivers the look of natural stone with less maintenance. When budgeting a quartz countertop installation, expect to pay $75-150 per square foot including professional fabrication and installation. Choosing a simple design, shopping sales, and installing yourself where possible can help trim expenses. But for this permanent kitchen or bath investment, it’s usually worth hiring experienced pros to ensure quality results.