Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodels in recent years. With their durability, low maintenance, and wide variety of colors and patterns, it’s easy to see why. However, like all countertop materials, quartz comes at a cost. Here is a detailed overview of what factors impact the cost of quartz countertops and what you can expect to budget for a typical install.
Quartz Countertop Cost Factors
Several key factors impact the total installed price of quartz countertops:
Quartz Material Cost
- The type of quartz material chosen – Basic vs. premium brands
- Color and pattern – More unique designs cost more
- Thickness – Standard 1.25″ vs. thicker 1.5″ or 2″ options
Installation
- Basic countertop fabrication vs. specialty cutting for corners, edges, etc.
- Simple kitchen layout vs. complex design with many seams/joints
- Standard installation vs. tile backsplashes or special treatments
- Local labor costs based on your geographic location
Countertop Size
- Total linear square footage needed for your space
- Large, seamless pieces cost more than smaller sections
Typical Price Range
With all these factors in play, what can you expect to pay for a quartz countertop install? Here are some typical price ranges:
- Low end: $40 – $70 per square foot installed
- Mid-range: $70 – $100 per square foot installed
- High end: $100 – $150 per square foot installed
The low end reflects basic builder-grade quartz, simple layouts, and inexpensive local labor. The high end is for premium designer quartz brands, complex designs, and pricier fabrication and installation. Expect to budget around $80 – $120 per square foot for a typical high-quality quartz countertop install.
Cost Comparison to Other Countertop Materials
How does the cost of quartz compare to other popular countertop materials? Here is a general comparison:
- Quartz: $80-$120 per square foot installed
- Granite: $60-$120 per square foot installed
- Marble: $70-$150 per square foot installed
- Laminate: $20-$50 per square foot installed
- Solid Surface: $50-$100 per square foot installed
- Tile: $10-$30 per square foot for materials only
So you can see quartz pricing falls around the middle of the spectrum – less than natural stone but pricier than laminates. The key advantage is its durability and low maintenance outweigh the moderate cost for most homeowners.
Cost Savings Tips
If your budget is tight, here are some tips to reduce the overall cost of quartz countertops:
- Shop sales or negotiate discounts from fabricators/installers
- Use a basic style and edge treatment to reduce fabrication time
- Install smaller pieces instead of large seamless sections
- Use a standard 1.25″ thickness instead of thicker options
- Install yourself if experienced (saves on labor costs)
- Opt for smaller surface areas if possible
Is Quartz Worth the Investment?
Quartz countertops offer unparalleled durability and longevity compared to many materials. When properly installed, they can last for decades with minimal maintenance required. The upfront investment pays off over time thanks to:
- Extremely hard and scratch-resistant surface
- Resists heat, stains, and bacteria growth
- Never needs sealing or polishing
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Long warranty periods (10-15 years typical)
For most homeowners, the price is justified by the years of beauty and hassle-free use quartz provides in the kitchen or bathroom. Be sure to account for professional installation and any special cutting or treatments needed for your space. With some smart planning and shopping, quartz can fit within many home renovation budgets.
Quartz Countertop Cost FAQs
Does the cost of quartz include installation?
Typically no, the cost of quartz per square foot refers to the material and fabrication only. Installation is usually an additional expense from a contractor. Some companies offer package deals though.
How much does installation of a quartz countertop cost?
Installation will add $40-$100 per square foot on average. The exact cost depends on the complexity of the job and local labor rates. Many fabricators include installation for a complete turnkey solution.
Is it cheaper to install quartz countertops yourself?
In some cases DIY installation can save on labor costs. However it requires experience working with quartz materials and tools. Hiring a pro ensures proper cutting, seaming, anchoring, and sealing during the install process.
Should I expect to pay more for specialty edges or treatments?
Yes, any specialty edging, backsplashes, cutouts, built-in drainboards, etc. will add cost due to extra fabrication time and materials needed. Simple straight edges are the most budget-friendly.
Does quartz come in set sizes or can it be custom cut?
One benefit of quartz is it can be fabricated in custom sizes and shapes. Larger seamless pieces typically cost more, but it can be cut precisely to fit your layout. This does require skilled installers.
Conclusion
While not the cheapest option, quartz offers unrivaled performance, beauty, and longevity for your investment. With an average cost of $80-$120 per square foot installed, it fits between laminates and natural stone pricing. Careful shopping and smart layouts can yield savings, making quartz an accessible option for many budgets. For a low-maintenance, stylish countertop that will last for years, quartz is worth consideration.