Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodels in recent years. With their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance, many homeowners are choosing quartz over more traditional materials like granite or marble. But does installing quartz countertops actually add value to your home? Here is a detailed look at whether quartz countertops can increase your home’s value.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes called engineered stone countertops, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with polyester resins and pigments. The quartz content typically makes up 90% or more of the material. Unlike natural stone countertops, quartz is entirely non-porous and does not need to be sealed.
Some key advantages of quartz countertops:
- Extremely durable and scratch-resistant
- Stain, heat, and water resistant
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Available in a wide range of colors and patterns
- Non-porous so does not need regular sealing
Brands of quartz countertops include Silestone, Caesarstone, Cambria, and Viatera.
Do Quartz Countertops Increase Home Value?
According to real estate agents and appraisers, upgrading to quartz countertops can increase your home’s value, often allowing you to recoup over 70% of the installation cost. Here’s why quartz counts as an added value for home buyers:
Appearance
Quartz offers an attractive, modern look for kitchens and baths. The stylish appearance and customizability of patterns and colors make quartz an on-trend choice. This aesthetic appeal allows quartz to increase perceived home value for potential buyers.
Durability
With excellent scratch, stain, and heat resistance, quartz is one of the most durable countertop materials. This durability means quartz countertops will maintain their like-new appearance for longer compared to materials like granite or laminate. Durability translates to added value.
Ease of Maintenance
Since quartz resists stains and etching and never needs sealing, it is very low maintenance compared to natural stone. Home buyers are drawn to the idea of avoiding yearly sealing and conditioned required by granite or marble. Less maintenance means more home value.
Health and Safety
Natural stone can harbor bacteria in porous areas. Quartz’s non-porous surface inhibits bacterial growth, an appealing health and safety advantage. This gives quartz an edge over materials like concrete, marble, and granite.
How Much Value Does Quartz Add?
According to the Remodeling Magazine 2020 Cost vs. Value Report, midrange quartz countertop installation has an average project cost of $2,964 which leads to a 70.5% recouped value of $2,087. This demonstrates installing new quartz countertops can significantly increase your home’s value.
More specific estimates from real estate professionals include:
- 1-3% increase in home sale price
- 50-75% recouped costs
- $50-100 per square foot added value
So while project costs vary, you can expect to recoup 50-75% of your investment in new quartz counters through increased home value. This makes quartz an intelligent upgrade when preparing to sell your home.
Factors That Influence Added Home Value
Several key factors impact just how much extra value new quartz counters will contribute to your home:
- Project scale – More surface area replaced equals a higher value boost. Full kitchen overhauls see higher returns than a single bathroom.
- Quartz quality – Higher-end quartz brands like Caesarstone can mean more added value versus cheaper options. Quality installation also matters.
- Market trends – Quartz is on-trend now, but home buyer preferences change over time. Markets favoring contemporary styles maximize quartz appeal.
- Home price point – In higher-end homes, new quartz counters may be expected rather than a value-add. They boost value more for mid-range homes.
- Overall condition – Countertops in dated or worn homes show more impact. New quartz has less dramatic effect in newer or updated homes.
FAQ About Quartz Countertops and Home Value
Does quartz increase resale value more than granite?
Quartz and granite can both boost home value. Quartz often adds slightly more value due to its durability, appearance, and maintenance-free nature. Granite requires yearly sealing which buyers may see as a hassle.
Should I choose granite or quartz for resale value?
Quartz is generally the best option if your goal is maximizing resale value. Quartz requires less maintenance, keeps its like-new look longer, and offers greater customization of colors and patterns versus natural granite.
Is quartz more expensive than granite?
The costs for quartz and granite are comparable, with granite countertops starting around $35 per square foot installed and quartz in the $50 to $100 per square foot range installed. Durability and maintenance savings help offset quartz’s higher initial price over time.
Do quartz counters attract buyers?
According to the National Association of Realtors 2021 Remodeling Impact Report, modern kitchens were the top feature appealing to buyers. With its contemporary aesthetic, quartz aligns well with this preference. Quartz durability and low maintenance are also attractions for buyers.
Should I update my kitchen before selling?
Kitchen updates like new quartz counters are smart improvements before selling. Kitchen remodels deliver a 75% recouped cost on average, one of the highest returns of all home projects, according to remodeling industry reports.
The Bottom Line: Valuable Investment
In the majority of cases, installing new quartz counters in your kitchen or bathrooms is a worthwhile investment when preparing to sell your home. While granite and other options can also add value, quartz stands apart due to its:
- Contemporary, stylish appearance
- Extensive durability and scratch resistance
- Easy care and maintenance
- Non-porous, hygienic properties
Focus on quality installation and reputable quartz brands to maximize the value boost. Given its popularity and curb appeal, quartz creates a fresh look that can help sell your home faster and for a higher price. With the ability to recoup over 70% of costs, quartz countertops prove a smart choice when investing in home upgrades.