Installing quartz countertops can significantly upgrade the look and feel of your kitchen or bathroom. With their durable, low-maintenance, and stylish nature, quartz countertops are a popular choice for many homeowners. However, like most home remodeling projects, installing quartz does come at a cost. Below we will explore the factors that influence the cost of installing quartz countertops so you can budget appropriately.
Factors That Impact Quartz Countertop Installation Cost
Several key factors contribute to the total installation cost of quartz countertops:
Quartz Material Cost
- The type of quartz material selected will largely determine the base price. There are various brands on the market with differing price points. Silestone, Cambria, Caesarstone, and Viatera are popular mid-range to high-end options. Lower-cost quartz brands are also available.
- More intricate quartz patterns and colors tend to be more expensive than plain, solid color slabs.
- Thickness also impacts cost, with 2 cm being the standard thickness, while 3 cm thick quartz is an upgraded option.
Labor
- Hiring professional countertop installers is recommended for quartz. The complexity of safely handling the heavy slabs and precision cutting required makes DIY installation difficult.
- More complex installations with specialty edges/cuts or a high number of seams will take more time and labor to complete, increasing costs.
- Regional labor rates will factor in as well, with higher prices in areas with a higher cost of living.
Countertop Layout
- The total surface area to be covered will play a significant role. More countertop square footage equates to higher quartz material and labor costs.
- One-piece, seamless installations are preferred but may not be possible for larger layouts, requiring a multiple-piece approach that adds labor time.
Demolition and Prep Work
- If you’re replacing existing countertops, demolition and disposal fees apply. Any repairs needed to make the underlying surface ready for new quartz installation will also add cost.
- New cabinet installations may be required to provide proper structural support for heavy quartz countertops, which would be an additional expense.
Cost to Install Quartz Countertops
With all the above factors considered, most homeowners spend $80-$100 per square foot for quartz countertop installation. This cost range accounts for mid-range quartz materials from major brands, professional installation labor, and standard countertop layouts.
Here are some examples:
- For a small 10 square foot countertop area, expect to pay $800-$1000 for materials and professional installation.
- A medium 30 square foot kitchen with islands may cost $2,400-$3,000.
- For larger 60+ square foot projects, costs often exceed $5,000.
High-end custom quartz materials, complex installations, and significant prep work can drive these costs even higher. Always get an itemized quote from at least 3 reputable local installers to compare.
Hiring a Quartz Countertop Installer
Carefully vet and hire an experienced quartz fabricator/installer for best results. Be sure to:
- Review examples of their previous quartz installations.
- Ask about their experience with major quartz brands and styles.
- Request references from recent clients.
- Verify they are licensed, bonded, and insured.
- Get everything quoted in writing – cost breakdowns, timeline, warranty terms.
Hiring the right pro for the job will help ensure your new quartz countertops are installed properly and built to last.
Maintaining Your Investment
Once installed, quartz requires minimal maintenance:
- Use mild soap and water for routine cleaning.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch the surface.
- Disinfect with a diluted bleach solution if needed.
- yearly sealing can help prevent staining but is not mandatory.
With proper care, your quartz countertops will stay looking like new for decades. The initial investment pays off in their durability and longevity.
Bottom Line
Installing new quartz countertops runs $80-$100 per square foot installed, with total costs highly dependent on the size and layout complexity. Carefully weighing the design, material, and installer you choose allows budgeting this project accurately. In the end, you get a high-end, low-maintenance surface that will beautifully upgrade your space for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest option for quartz countertops?
The most budget-friendly option is to select low-cost quartz materials rather than premium name brands. Brands like MSI offer quartz options under $50 per square foot. Going with a smaller quartz thickness like 2cm also saves on cost compared to 3cm.
Can I install quartz countertops myself?
DIY installation is not advisable. Quartz slabs weigh 100-150 pounds each, requiring 2-3 people to safely maneuver. The cutting and fitting process also calls for special tools and experience to get a flawless finish. Hiring a pro is highly recommended.
How thick should quartz countertops be?
The standard thickness for quartz is 2 cm, which provides an excellent balance of durability and cost-effectiveness for most homes. 3 cm thick quartz can provide some additional strength and visual depth but is an upgrade option that adds expense.
What factors make quartz installation more complex?
Intricate slab layouts, creative cutouts, and a higher number of seams will require more labor time and expertise from installers. Pre-existing countertop or cabinetry issues that require repair work prior to install also adds complexity and cost.
Can you repair chips or cracks in a quartz countertop?
Minor chips and scratches can often be sanded and polished out of a quartz surface. However, any significant cracks or damage will likely require a full slab replacement. This demonstrates the importance of hiring an experienced installer to get the initial installation right.
Conclusion
With an average cost range of $80-$100 per square foot installed, quartz countertops are a significant yet worthy investment that can drastically elevate your home’s interior. Carefully weighing the design, materials, and installation professional you choose will help yield beautiful, long-lasting results. Be sure to account for your exact project size and layout complexity as you budget for this transformative upgrade.