Quartz countertops have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance. However, many homeowners wonder – what is the price for quartz countertops? Here is a comprehensive overview of quartz countertop pricing, factors that affect cost, price comparisons to other materials, and ways to get the best deal.
Average Cost of Quartz Countertops
The average price for quartz countertops ranges from $50 to $120 per square foot installed. This can translate to $1,200 to $3,600 for an average kitchen with 30 square feet of countertop space.
However, quartz pricing can vary widely depending on:
Type of Quartz
There are different grades and quality levels of quartz, which affect the price:
- Entry-level quartz – Made with more polymers and less natural stone. $50-$80 per square foot.
- Mid-range quartz – Balance of polymers and stone. $80-$100 per square foot.
- High-end quartz – More stone and recyclable materials. $100-$120 per square foot.
Popular mid-range brands like Caesarstone and Cambria cost $70-$105 on average. High-end designer brands like Pental, Livyn, and Silestone range from $100-$250 per square foot.
Color and Patterns
- Solid colors – Are the most affordable quartz option.
- Veined patterns – Add a natural stone look for $10-$15 more per square foot.
- Speckled patterns – With flecks of color cost $25+ more per square foot.
Thickness
Standard quartz thickness is 3/4 inch (2cm). Going up to 1 1/4 inches (3cm) adds $10-$20 per square foot. Thicker quartz is more durable and easier to polish.
Installation Costs
The fabrication and installation of the countertops also impacts the final price. Simple countertop layouts start around $35 per linear foot installed. Complex installations with specialty edging, integrated sinks, or intricate tile patterns cost $70+ per linear foot installed.
Factors That Affect Quartz Countertop Pricing
Other factors that influence quartz countertop costs include:
- Sink cutouts – Additional holes for undermount sinks add $100-$200 each.
- Backsplash – Tiled quartz backsplashes add $30-$50 per linear foot.
- Edges – Decorative edges like ogee, bevel, or eased cost $10-$20 more per linear foot.
- Location – Prices are higher in areas like NYC, San Francisco, and Honolulu.
- Warranty – Longer dealer warranties come with a higher price tag.
- Brand reputation – Well-known designers and luxury brands charge premium pricing.
How Quartz Compares to Other Countertops
Quartz countertops are more expensive than laminate ($20-$50 per square foot installed) and ceramic tile ($15-$50 per square foot installed), but comparable or cheaper than many other materials:
- Granite – Similar pricing of $50-$150 per square foot installed
- Marble – Usually more expensive at $70-$250 per square foot installed
- Soapstone – $70-$100 per square foot installed
- Concrete – $85-$125 per square foot installed
- Stainless steel – $100-$250 per square foot installed
While quartz is not the cheapest option, it offers an outstanding combination of quality, durability, and appearance for the price.
Tips for Getting the Best Deal on Quartz
To get the lowest price on quartz countertops for your kitchen or bath, consider these tips:
- Shop around and get quotes from 3-5 fabricators. Compare materials, prices, warranties, and reviews.
- Avoid overpaying for unnecessary thickness or upgrades unless needed.
- Consider mid-range quartz brands to save 20-30% over premium designer quartz.
- Look for deals being run by quartz suppliers or fabricators. Some offer discounts seasonally.
- Reuse existing cabinets and layouts to reduce installation work needed.
- Use a qualified independent installer rather than the fabricator for lower labor prices.
- Negotiate overall pricing packages rather than per square foot quotes.
- Order remnant pieces for lesser used areas like islands.
- If your budget is very tight, explore entry-level quartz options.
With some savvy shopping techniques, it is possible to get high-quality, stylish quartz countertops installed in your home starting as low as $50 per square foot. Carefully compare options, materials, and quotes to unlock the best value for your kitchen or bath remodeling budget.
FAQ About Quartz Countertop Pricing
How much do quartz countertops cost compared to granite?
Quartz and granite counters are similarly priced, both averaging $50-$120 per square foot installed. Granite can get more expensive for rare exotic stone. Overall granite has more variation in pricing while quartz pricing tends to be more consistent.
Are quartz countertops cheaper than marble?
Yes, quartz counters are almost always cheaper than marble. Marble is a premium priced material, starting around $70 per square foot and going up over $200 per square foot installed. The stone used in quartz makes it more affordable.
Is Caesarstone more expensive than Silestone?
Caesarstone and Silestone are two of the top quartz manufacturers. Caesarstone counters are typically priced a little higher, averaging $70-$120 per square foot installed. Silestone pricing ranges from $60-$100 per square foot installed on average.
Should I buy prefabricated or custom quartz?
Prefabricated quartz counters are mass-produced in standard sizes to save costs. Custom-cut quartz is made to your exact measurements. Custom quartz generally costs $20+ more per square foot but with more size, edge, and pattern options.
Is Lowe’s or Home Depot cheaper for quartz counters?
For mid-range quartz options like Caesarstone, Home Depot and Lowe’s are very competitively priced, starting around $60 per square foot. To get the lowest prices, shop around multiple home improvement stores as pricing varies.
Conclusion
When budgeting for new quartz countertops, expect to pay in the range of $50 to $120 per square foot installed. Pricing is impacted by the quality of the quartz, custom cutouts and edges, installation challenges, brand reputation, and other enhancements. With smart shopping and comparisons, quartz can be an affordable option to get the look of natural stone with less maintenance. Taking the time to understand quartz pricing and negotiation allows homeowners to unlock the best value on this beautiful and durable countertop material.