Quartz countertops have become increasingly popular in kitchen remodeling projects over the last decade. Known for their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance, quartz offers homeowners an attractive alternative to natural stone and solid surface countertops. But how much do quartz countertops cost? Here is an overview of the factors that impact the price of quartz countertops.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone, are made from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz content typically ranges from 90-95%. The remaining 5-10% consists of polymers that bind the material together.
The resins make quartz non-porous, so it resists stains and etching better than natural stone. The pigments introduce color and pattern versatility not found in traditional granite or marble. The end result is an attractive, low maintenance, and durable surface.
Cost Factors for Quartz Countertops
Several variables impact the total installed price of quartz countertops in a kitchen remodel. The main factors include:
Quartz Slab Price
The starting point is the price of the quartz slabs themselves. This can range quite a bit based on:
- Brand – Well-known brands like Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone tend to cost $50-100+ per square foot. Lesser known brands usually start around $40 per square foot.
- Color and Pattern – More complex patterns and richer colors demand a higher price. A vibrant blue quartz with bold veining patterns costs more than a simple white or beige slab.
- Thickness – Standard thickness is 3/4″, but thicker 1-1/4″ slabs provide more durability and cost $10-15 more per square foot.
- Inventory – Popular colors often have limited supply, driving costs up. Neutral tones like white quartz tend to cost less.
- Discounts – Sales, specials, and quantity discounts can reduce material costs by 10-20%.
Fabrication & Installation
Beyond the raw material cost, professional fabrication and installation adds $40-60 per square foot typically. This covers:
- Digital templating to ensure a precise fit
- Cutting the slabs and fabricating the countertops
- Polishing and edging
- Seam placement and finishing
- Complete installation of the finished countertops
Additional Factors
Other considerations that can increase the total price include:
- Special edge profiles like ogee and chamfered edges
- Full backsplashes and trim pieces
- Built-in sink cutouts
- Complex designs and patterning
- Use of multiple colors of quartz
- Island and peninsula shapes requiring more seams
What is the Total Cost for a Quartz Countertop?
Given all these factors, what can you expect to pay in total for quartz countertops?
- Total average cost: $80-120 per square foot installed
- Economical quartz: $60-90 per square foot
- High-end quartz: $120-150+ per square foot
As a real world example, for a medium grade quartz installed in a 25 square foot L-shaped kitchen layout, total costs would be roughly:
- Quartz material: 25 sq ft x $80 per sq ft = $2,000
- Fabrication & installation: 25 sq ft x $50 per sq ft = $1,250
- Total project cost = $3,250
Quartz requires a significant investment, but it also adds great value in terms of beauty, durability, and ease of maintenance. And it avoids the yearly sealing typical of granite and marble. For homeowners who prioritize a stylish, fuss-free kitchen, quartz delivers an optimal combination of form and function.
Pros and Cons of Quartz Countertops
Before deciding on quartz, consider some of the key advantages and potential drawbacks:
Pros
- Extremely durable and scratch resistant surface
- Requires no periodic sealing like natural stone
- Easy maintenance and stain resistance
- Wide variety of colors and patterns
- Consistent color and styling throughout the slab
- Antimicrobial properties inhibit bacteria growth
- Nonporous so spills don’t penetrate or stain
Cons
- Higher cost than laminate or tile countertops
- Limited high-heat resistance (not ideal behind stoves)
- Visible seams, especially on darker quartz
- Can chip or crack if subjected to extreme impact
- Very heavy slabs require professional installation
Quartz vs. Granite Countertops
Many homeowners waver between quartz and granite. How do they compare?
Quartz Pros
- More consistent in color and patterning
- Requires no ongoing sealing
- Greater stain and scratch resistance
- Easier maintenance overall
- Antimicrobial qualities
Granite Pros
- Often lower cost than quartz
- Available in a diverse range of natural patterns
- Can withstand very high heat
- Less visible seaming in many cases
Quartz delivers man-made reliability, while granite offers the allure of natural stone. Quartz is ideal for homeowners who want a fuss-free, stylish kitchen. Granite suits those who prefer the unique look of natural materials.
FAQs About Quartz Countertops
Some common questions that arise about quartz countertops:
Is quartz really maintenance free?
Quartz requires very little routine maintenance. Just clean with soap and water – no need to regularly seal or polish like natural stone. However, avoid exposing quartz to excessive heat or impact.
How durable and heat resistant is quartz?
Quartz stands up well to scratches, stains, and daily wear and tear. But avoid direct high heat. Always use a trivet for hot pots and pans. Quartz can crack under extreme impacts.
Does quartz have visible seaming?
Seams are often more noticeable on darker quartz. Professional installers position seams discretely, but expect some visibility especially with darker colors.
Can you repair chips or cracks in quartz?
Minor chips can often be sanded and polished out professionally. But cracks or major damage usually require a full replacement.
Is DIY quartz countertop installation doable?
Quartz slabs are very heavy, fragile, and require seam placement expertise. Leave it to the professionals for the best results.
Deciding on Quartz for Your Kitchen
When chosen with realistic expectations, quartz makes an excellent countertop material that delivers on both form and function. It pairs durability and easy maintenance with attractive styling. For homeowners who want a worry-free kitchen surface that looks great for years to come, quartz is a top choice.
Be sure to get an in-person estimate from an experienced local fabricator. Carefully review quartz samples to choose a color and finish you’ll enjoy long-term. And make sure to check reviews and examples of the fabricator’s previous work. With quartz countertops installed professionally, you can look forward to enjoying a beautiful, practical kitchen surface that stays looking like new for decades.