Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects. Made from engineered stone, quartz combines natural quartz crystals with resin to create a durable, low-maintenance, and visually appealing surface. But with so many options on the market, many homeowners wonder – what does a quartz countertop cost on average?
What Factors Impact the Cost of Quartz Countertops?
Several key factors impact the total cost of quartz countertops:
Quartz Material Grade
Quartz comes in different quality grades, ranging from economy to premium levels. Higher-end quartz typically has more quartz content, resulting in an increased price per square foot. Economy quartz starts around $40 per square foot while premium quartz can cost $100 per square foot or more.
Color and Pattern
More unique colors and patterns tend to increase costs slightly compared to popular white and neutral options. However, differences are often minor.
Edge Profiles
Decorative edge profiles like ogee, bevel, and bullnose edges add aesthetic appeal but also add $5-$15 per linear foot to the price. Straight polished edges are the most affordable.
Thickness
Standard thickness is 3/4″, but thicker 1-1/4″ slabs provide enhanced durability and support for longer spans. Thicker quartz can increase cost by $10-$20 per square foot.
Installation
Hiring experienced professionals is recommended for proper quartz fabrication and installation. Labor typically adds $40-$100 per square foot depending on project scope.
Countertop Extras
Added features like integrated sinks and special cutouts for cooktops can increase costs. Backsplashes and additional decorative touches also add to the total price.
What Does the Average Homeowner Pay for a Quartz Countertop?
Given all these factors, the total price per square foot for a quartz countertop typically ranges from $70 to $120 on average.
However, it’s best to budget approximately $80 to $100 per square foot as a median starting point.
This accounts for a standard 3/4” thickness slab with straight polished edges in a popular white, gray, or beige color. It also includes professional fabrication and installation.
For a typical 25 square foot countertop area, homeowners often pay between $2,000 and $3,000 total.
Quartz countertops range from about 15% to 50% more than materials like granite, marble, Corian, laminate, and tile. The extra cost provides added benefits like stain and scratch resistance that enhance durability and ease of maintenance.
What Are Ways to Reduce Costs on a Quartz Countertop?
For homeowners looking to cut costs, consider the following tips:
- Opt for a lower grade or domestic quartz rather than premium imports. Savings of $10 to $20 per square foot are possible.
- Choose a neutral solid color like white that is widely available rather than rare exotic patterns.
- Select a straight polished edge profile instead of decorative ogee or beveled edges.
- Install 3/4″ standard thickness rather than thicker 1 1/4” slab.
- Reuse portions of old countertop that are in suitable shape rather than full replacement.
- Install yourself if skilled with tools, saving on labor fees.
- Find quartz remnants through suppliers that offer discounted smaller leftover pieces.
Getting the Best Value on Quartz Countertops
When chosen carefully, quartz offers homeowners excellent value for money given its outstanding performance, aesthetics, and reasonable maintenance needs. While not the absolute cheapest option, it provides a great combination of quality, beauty, and practicality.
Do your research, examine costs closely, and look for potential savings to find the best quartz countertop value for your specific kitchen or bath remodeling project. Investing in this surface can enhance your home for many years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest price for a quartz countertop?
The lowest quartz prices typically start around $40 per square foot. However, total costs below $70 per square foot often reflect lower grade materials.
What is the most expensive quartz?
Premium quartz slabs with high quartz content and exotic patterns can cost over $100 per square foot. Unique colors and embellishments also increase prices.
Is quartz more expensive than granite?
Quartz is often 15% to 50% more expensive than natural granite. The extra cost reflects quartz’s engineered composition and added durability.
Can you get quartz countertops for under $1000?
For small countertop projects under about 15 square feet, total costs for economy-grade quartz may stay under $1000. Larger surfaces will exceed this budget.
What thickness of quartz countertop is best?
The standard 3/4” thickness works well for most applications. Extra thickness of 1 1/4” provides added sturdiness for heavy usage areas or longer spans between supports.
Conclusion
Quartz countertops offer homeowners an outstanding combination of quality, beauty, and practicality. While quartz costs more than materials like granite and laminate, it provides added stain, scratch and heat resistance. With careful selection, you can find quartz countertops starting around $70 per square foot, or $2000 to $3000 for typical 25 square foot installations. Seek ways to balance aesthetics and performance with pricing to find the ideal quartz countertop value for your next remodeling project.