Installing quartz countertops can significantly upgrade your home’s aesthetic and functionality. However, like most home upgrades, installing quartz does come at a cost. There are several factors that influence how much quartz countertops cost to install. Understanding these considerations will help you budget and plan your kitchen or bath remodel.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, also called engineered stone, have become incredibly popular in recent years. Quartz is made from natural stone particles like quartz that are fused with plastic resins and pigments. This creates a durable, stylish, and low-maintenance surface perfect for busy kitchens and baths.
Some key benefits of quartz include:
- Extremely durable – resistant to scratches, stains, heat, and damage
- Low maintenance – doesn’t require regular sealing or polishing
- Stylish – available in a wide array of colors and patterns
- Non-porous – does not harbor bacteria or germs
- Customizable – can be fabricated into unique shapes and designs
Quartz offers the appeal and look of natural stone with increased durability and less maintenance. This makes it an excellent option for countertops.
Factors That Impact Quartz Installation Cost
Several factors affect what you’ll pay to have quartz countertops installed. The main considerations include:
Type of Quartz
There are varying quality levels of quartz, from budget options to premium designer brands. Higher end quartz will cost more for materials and installation. The range is approximately:
- Economy quartz: $40 – $80 per square foot installed
- Mid-range quartz: $80 – $120 per square foot installed
- High-end/luxury quartz: $120 – $200 per square foot installed
Popular mid-range brands include Silestone, Caesarstone, Cambria, and Viatera.
Color and Pattern
Quartz comes in a wide array of colors and patterns. Some more complex or unique designs can increase the installation price. Neutral solids are typically the most budget-friendly options.
Countertop Fabricator
You’ll need an experienced countertop fabricator to professionally cut and install your quartz. Local costs for fabrication and installation can vary. Highly skilled fabricators or those working on luxury homes may charge more for their services. Get 3-4 estimates before deciding on a fabricator.
Countertop Layout
Your total countertop square footage will directly impact the overall cost. Long spans, intricate seams, waterfall edges, and special cutouts will increase fabrication time and materials needed. Simple layouts with few seams are most affordable.
Other Factors
Other details that can increase your installation cost include:
- Integral sinks or special features like drain grooves
- Custom edging options like beveled or ogee edges
- Special backing or structural supports needed
- Removing and disposing old countertops
- Access limitations that complicate installation
Cost to Install Quartz Countertops
On average, expect to pay the following ranges for quartz countertop installation:
- Kitchen countertops: $80 – $150 per square foot installed
- Bathroom countertops: $100 – $200 per square foot installed
- Backsplashes: $10 – $30 per square foot installed
This means if you have a 30 square foot kitchen space, quartz installation may range from $2,400 to $4,500 depending on the factors above.
For a bathroom vanity top of 15 square feet, expect to invest $1,500 to $3,000 for materials and professional installation.
Should You Install Quartz Yourself?
Quartz fabrication and installation is best left to professionals. Special skills and tools are needed to accurately cut, polish, and install quartz. DIY mistakes can result in cracks, misaligned seams, and other damage.
That said, there are some tasks a homeowner can tackle to save money:
- Remove old countertops and prepare the base cabinets
- Purchase quartz slabs and arrange fabricator/installer
- Paint walls, update lighting fixtures, etc. for a full remodel
Having the quartz fabricated and installed is the most critical step best left to experts. But taking on demo work and ancillary tasks helps reduce costs.
How to Get the Best Deal on Quartz
Here are a few tips to get the most competitive bid for your quartz installation:
- Shop sales or clearance quartz to save up to 50% on materials
- Use a single slab for small spaces to minimize seams
- Opt for simple edges and standard shapes to reduce fabrication time
- Get 3-4 written estimates and compare the full scope of services
- Avoid overpaying – check reviews and carefully vet installers
- Request a warranty on installation services as well as the product
Investing in gorgeous quartz countertops can significantly upgrade your home and boost resale value. Paying attention to the factors that influence installation costs will help you get the premium look you want at a price you can afford. With strategic planning and budgeting, you can enjoy stunning new quartz countertops that will last for many years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to install quartz countertops?
For an average sized kitchen (30-40 SF), expect the installation process to take 2-3 days from start to finish. The countertop fabricator may need up to 1 week lead time to finalize edge details and pre-fabricate your counters off-site before installing.
Does installing quartz countertops require a professional?
Quartz is not a DIY-friendly material. It’s essential to hire a specialized fabricator and installer to ensure proper cutting, seam placement, installation, and finishing. Attempting to install quartz yourself often leads to irreparable damage.
Can you put hot pots and pans on quartz?
Quartz is extremely heat resistant and can tolerate brief exposure to temperatures up to 300°F. However, prolonged direct heat could potentially damage the resin used to create the slabs. Using hot pads is recommended to prevent any risks.
How thick should quartz countertops be?
A thickness of 2-3cm (about 1 inch) is best for quartz countertops. This provides an ideal combination of durability and weight. Thinner options can crack under impact, while thicker slabs are quite heavy.
Should I seal my quartz countertops?
No, quartz does not require regular sealing like natural stone. The resin formulation makes quartz non-porous and impervious to stains. You can occasionally apply a sealer to improve water resistance and sheen, but it’s not required.
Conclusion
Installing new quartz countertops can cost an average of $80-$150 per square foot for professional fabrication and installation. Factors like your choice of quartz, complexity of layout, and local labor rates impact the final price. With some advance planning and budgeting, quartz can be an affordable option to transform your kitchen or bath into a high-end showpiece. Paying a visit to home improvement stores for quotes, checking reviews of fabricators, and doing your homework on options will help you get the best results on your investment. With their durability, style, and reduced maintenance needs, quartz countertops are worth consideration for your next remodeling project.