Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodels due to their durability, low maintenance, and customizability. When budgeting for new quartz counters, it’s important to understand what factors impact the pricing so you can get an accurate estimate and find the best value. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about quartz countertop costs.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes called engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with pigments and resin. The result is a hard, non-porous surface that resists scratches, stains, and heat.
Compared to natural stone like granite, quartz offers more consistent coloring and patterning since it is engineered. It also requires less sealing than granite. Unlike solid surface materials, quartz is resistant to heat damage. This makes it an ideal material for busy kitchens.
Quartz Countertop Cost Factors
Many variables affect what you’ll pay for installed quartz counters. Prices range from $50 – $150 per square foot. The final cost depends on:
- Type of Quartz: Basic colors and patterns are most affordable. Premium styles with more quartz content cost more.
- Edge Profiles: Decorative edges like ogee and bevel add $10-$15 per linear foot. Simple eased or pencil edges are standard.
- Thickness: 1.2” – 1.5” thicknesses are the norm. Going up to 2” or 3” costs $10-$15 more per square foot.
- Fabrication Process: Computer-controlled or CNC fabrication typically adds $20-$30 per square foot.
- Customization: Special cuts for sinks or cooktops, built-in drainboards, and matching backsplashes increase costs.
- Brand: Higher-end brands like Caesarstone and Silestone are pricier than value brands.
- Installer Reputation and Experience: Top shops charge more for their expertise.
- Location: Materials, labor, and real estate costs vary regionally.
With so many variables, it’s hard to estimate average quartz countertop prices. But here is a rough breakdown per square foot:
- Low end: $50 – $70
- Mid-range: $70 – $100
- High end: $100 – $150
Keep reading for a detailed look at what impacts quartz countertop costs.
Quartz Material Prices
The type of quartz material is the biggest driver of cost. Basic colors and patterns start around $50 per square foot. On the high end, exotic imported quartz can be over $100 per square foot.
Here are the main price levels from low to high:
Value Quartz
Affordable quartz counters start at $50 – $70 per square foot installed. At this price point, expect limited color and pattern options. Thickness is usually 1.2”. Brands include:
- MSI Q Premium Natural Quartz
- Caesarstone Motivo
- Cambria Bellingham and Cumberland
Value quartz works best for budgets focused on function over form. The durability and maintenance perks still exist. But the aesthetic is not as flashy.
Standard Quartz
The standard quartz range covers a wide gamut but generally falls between $70 – $100 per square foot installed. This middle group represents the bulk of quartz sales. Choices abound for colors, patterns, and stone effects. Brands include:
- Silestone
- Caesarstone Classic
- Cambria Brittanicca and Madeira
- MSI Q Premium Natural Quartz
- Vicostone Vicostone
Most homeowners can find plenty of appealing options at this reasonable price point. Expect 1.2” – 1.5” slabs. Edge profiles typically cost extra.
Premium Quartz
For more exotic looks with special patterns and textures, expect to pay $100 – $150 per square foot. Premium quartz incorporates more natural quartz content with smaller flecks. Brands include:
- Caesarstone Supernatural
- Cambria Oceanus, Brittanicca and Bellingham
- Silestone Eternal Collection
- Compac Unique
- MSI Q Premium Natural Quartz
These mostly imported designer brands exhibit unique veining and high-end aesthetics. Some slabs have a 3D look. Edge profiles usually come standard.
Recycled vs. Virgin Quartz
Some quartz contains recycled materials, while other slabs are 100% virgin quartz. Recycled quartz costs 10% – 20% less on average. Keep in mind that recycled quartz has a speckled appearance, so it won’t mimic natural stone as closely.
Popular recycled quartz brands:
- Caesarstone Metropolitan
- Cambria Terra Collection
- MSI Q Renew
In most cases, it’s impossible to visually tell the difference between recycled and virgin quartz. Performance should be the same. Choosing recycled quartz has an eco-friendly benefit with no drawbacks.
Quartz Brand Comparison
The brand of quartz makes a difference in patterns, colors, and price. Here’s how the major brands stack up:
Caesarstone
- Huge international brand
- Leading designer styles
- Largest color selection
- Most expensive on average
Cambria
- Signature natural quartz look
- USA-based manufacturing
- Wide array of designs
- Mid-to-upper range pricing
Silestone
- Hundreds of varieties
- Proprietary antibacterial protection
- High-end look and quality
- Premium pricing
MSI
- Affordable value collection
- Largest recycled quartz offering
- Solid mid-range options too
- Lower overall prices
Other Brands
- Compac
- Vicostone
- Hanwha
- Pental Quartz
The biggest names like Caesarstone and Cambria offer the most choices. MSI provides the best value. Smaller brands fill in the gaps with competitive offerings.
No matter which brand you choose, follow the slab grading guidelines below to get the best clarity and consistency.
Quartz Slab Grades
Not all quartz slabs are created equal, even within the same brand. Manufacturers assign grades based on each slab’s aesthetic qualities:
- Grade 1: Fewest imperfections, most consistency
- Grade 2: Minor imperfections, slightly more variation
- Grade 3: More imperfections, color fluctuations
It pays to request higher graded slabs, especially for large surfaces. Lower grades with more variation won’t look as seamless when cut and installed.
Higher grades cost $5-$15 more per square foot. But you avoid issues like abrupt color changes between pieces. Carefully inspect all slabs before fabrication. It’s your last chance to exchange unacceptable sections.
Popular Quartz Colors
With hundreds of colors and patterns available, quartz offers endless options to match your style. Here are some of the most popular colors:
Whites
- Frosty Carrina
- Niveous
- Statuario Maximus
- Super White
Crisp whites like these elegantly suit both modern and traditional kitchens. The quartz material prevents yellowing over time.
Grays
- Cape Gray
- Thunder Grey
- Fossil
- Rockport Grey
Gray quartz brings a sense of calm and sophistication. The range from pale driftwood to dark charcoal allows flexibility.
Blues
- Blue De Savoie
- Calacatta Azure
- Stellar Night
- Blue Bahia
From bold navy to soft sky blue, a blue quartz island or backsplash adds striking contrast. These colors echo beautiful natural stone.
Blacks
- Absolute Black
- Nero Assoluto
- Noir St. Laurent
Deep, inky black counters are having a moment. Use them to ground lighter cabinetry and floors.
Beiges
- Dulce Sundown
- Beachside
- Mont Blanc
- Linen
Warm beiges resemble natural stone for an earthy element. The darker shades hide marks.
Creams
- Winter Frost
- Snowy Ibiza
- Primordia
- Creama Perla
Buttery creams offer flexibility to pair with any palette. They hide crumbs well.
With an amazing spectrum to pick from, you can find a quartz to align with your personal taste and kitchen style.
Quartz Thickness Options
Most quartz countertops are either 1.2” or 1.5” thick. Here’s how to choose:
1.2” Thick
The minimum thickness for quartz countertops is 1.2”. This is extremely durable for daily use. Pros:
- Ideal for easy kitchen layouts
- Standard thickness to keep costs down
- Suitable for DIY if permitted
If your counters have straight runs with few seams, 1.2” should suffice in most homes. It can only span up to 32” between supports. Verify that 1.2” meets code requirements before choosing this thickness.
1.5” Thick
For added sturdiness, go up to 1.5” thickness. The pros:
- Recommended for large islands
- Preferred for heavily used surfaces
- Maximum support; spans up to 48”
Islands, chef’s kitchens, and commercial projects do best with 1.5” quartz. The extra mass minimizes any chance of cracking or sagging over time. It’s the ideal thickness for large overhangs too.
2” – 3” Thick Slabs
Some manufacturers offer up to 3” thick quartz slabs. At this extreme thickness, 2” is generally the maximum needed in residential kitchens. Consider it for:
- Extra-large islands
- Commercial projects
- Minimizing seams on big surfaces
While not common for homes, 2”+ thick quartz brings exceptional sturdiness. It costs $10-$15 more per square foot but ensures enduring performance.
Quartz Edges: Profiles and Costs
Edges impact the overall look and feel of quartz counters. They also come at an extra charge. Here are the main options with price differences explained:
Standard Edge
The most affordable and common edge is a simple polished finish. It has a 90-degree angle and soft rounded corners. Pros:
- Included in base price
- Matches any style
- Easy to keep clean
This straightforward edge works well for budget-friendly projects. It maintains the quartz’s low-maintenance benefits.
Beveled Edge
For a hint of dimension, beveled edges slant gently. Typically 1/8” wide, the flat bevel contrasts the textured quartz. Pros:
- Subtle but stylish detail
- Suits transitional to modern designs
- Fairly easy to clean
Cost: $10-$15 per linear ft
Ogee Edge
Ogee edges have an elegant continuous S-shaped curve. This ornamental detail provides a high-end finish. Pros:
- Refined, decorative look
- Perfect for upscale traditional spaces
- Needs careful cleaning
Cost: $15-$20 per linear ft
Mitered Edge
Mitered edges join two pieces at a 45-degree angled seam. Making a wraparound breakfast bar or island appear seamless. Pros:
- Visually appealing, fluid design
- Eliminates blunt seams
Cost: $15+ per linear ft
Other edge options:
- Double bevel
- Triple pencil
- Bullnose
- Chiseled
These intricate edges cost over $20 per linear foot. They work best on islands and bars where they can be appreciated. Avoid sharp angles in high traffic areas.
Do Quartz Prices Include Installation?
Quartz pricing structures can be confusing. Some quotes only cover materials, while others bundle fabrication and installation. Here’s the typical pricing breakdown:
Quartz Slab Price: $50-$150 per square foot for just the raw material. This does not cover any cutting or installation labor.
Fabricated Quartz Price: $80-$175 per square foot for finished countertops. The fabricator cuts sinks and cooktops and finishes the edges. Installation is not included.
Installed Price: $100-$200 per square foot for turnkey quartz counters. This all-inclusive price covers materials, fabrication, delivery, and professional installation.
Always verify exactly what’s covered in any quote. Bundling fabrication and especially installation can represent major cost savings.
Factors That Increase Quartz Price
Beyond the base price per square foot, many choices add cost. Be aware of these quartz countertop upgrades:
Thicker Slabs: Going up to 1.5”, 2”, or 3” thickness can add $10-$15 per square foot.
Premium Edges: Decorative edges like ogee, bevel, and miter cost $10-$20 more per linear foot.
Special Cuts: Any cutouts needed for sinks, cooktops, and faucets add labor fees.
Backsplashes: Adding matching quartz backsplashes increases total price 20%+
Niche and Drainboard: Cutting out integrated niches and drainboards takes expertise.
Exotic Materials: Rare stone patterns, luxury brands, and imports mean higher prices.
Fabrication Process: CNC fabrication costs $25+ more per square foot.
Shipping: Importing exotic materials from overseas adds shipping expenses.
Sales Tax: This varies by state but averages around 8% of total price.
Installation: Hiring professional installers costs $35-$100 per hour.
Keeping your project as straightforward as possible avoids most of these extra charges. But upgrades like edge profiles and backsplashes greatly enhance style.
Quartz vs. Other Countertops Cost
Quartz counters fit in the middle of the price spectrum for countertop materials. Here’s how they compare:
Laminate: $20-$50 per square foot. The most affordable option but lower durability.
Butcher Block: $60-$100 per square foot. Requires heavy maintenance.
Quartz: $80-$150 per square foot. Great value for resilience and aesthetics.
Marble: $70-$250 per square foot. Softer stone that stains easily.
Granite: $80-$185 per square foot. More natural look but requires sealing.
Concrete: $85-$200 per square foot. Heavy material prone to cracking.
Stainless Steel: $100-$250 per square foot. Striking but shows marks.
For the ideal mix of practicality and style, quartz counters strike the best balance for most kitchens. The mid-range price reflects their superior performance and customizability.
How to Get the Best Deal on Quartz
Follow these tips to keep quartz countertop costs as low as possible:
- Choose a lower-priced slab. Stick to value colors like whites and grays instead of premium exotic patterns.
- Select the standard 1.2” thickness unless you need thicker support.
- Keep edges simple. Standard eased or square edges cost less than decorative profiles.
- Opt for recycled quartz to save 10%-20% over virgin materials.
- Specify straight, simple seam placements to reduce cuts.
- Install during the fabricator’s slower seasons for sales.
- Provide accurate measurements and template early to avoid revisions.
- Bundle fabrication and install for potential cost savings.
- Pay attention to slab grading and avoid lower quality pieces.
- Ask about remnants for smaller surfaces like backsplashes.
With smart design choices, you can work within almost any budget.
Typical Quartz Countertop Costs by Kitchen Size
To give you a realistic idea of installed quartz prices, here are sample estimates for typical kitchen sizes:
Small Kitchen (15 sq ft of counters):
- Materials: 15 sq ft x $100 per sq ft = $1,500
- Basic Installation: $500
- Total: Around $2,000
Mid-Size Kitchen (30 sq ft of counters):
- Materials: 30 sq ft x $100 per sq ft = $3,000
- Installation with backsplash: $1,500
- Total: Around $4,500
Large Kitchen (50 sq ft of counters):
- Materials: 50 sq ft x $100 per sq ft = $5,000
- Premium installation: $2,500
- Total: Around $7,500
Islands, sinks, built-ins, and special seams will increase costs. But this gives you a general estimate for planning.
Price of Quartz Kitchen Islands
Thanks to their durability, quartz islands are extremely popular. Here are typical installed costs:
Small Quartz Island (25 sq ft):
- Materials: 25 sq ft x $100 per sq ft = $2,500
- Installation: $800
- Total: Around $3,300
Large Quartz Island (40 sq ft):
- Materials: 40 sq ft x $100 per sq ft = $4,000
- Installation: $1,200
- Total: Around $5,200
Add at least 20% more for a second level breakfast bar. Extra structural support also increases cost.
Cost to Add Quartz Backsplash
Matching quartz backsplashes make a seamless transition from countertops. Estimate adding $400-$600 for a 4’ x 4’ backsplash area. Unique designs cost more.
DIY Quartz Countertop Cost
Attempting to cut and install quartz yourself often leads to disappointment. But here’s a realistic budget:
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