Kitchen countertops are one of the most important elements of any kitchen. Not only do they provide necessary workspace for food prep and cooking, but they also make a major stylistic impact. IKEA offers a wide variety of countertop materials at affordable price points, making them a popular choice for many homeowners. One of IKEA’s most sought-after countertop options is quartz. But how much do IKEA quartz countertops cost?
An Overview of IKEA Quartz Countertops
IKEA’s quartz countertops are marketed under the name Sektion. They are made from crushed quartz aggregated with resin binders to create a durable, low-maintenance, and stylish surface. IKEA offers Sektion quartz countertops in a range of colors and textures to complement any kitchen decor.
Some key benefits of IKEA quartz countertops include:
- Durability – Quartz is resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. It can withstand heavy daily use.
- Low maintenance – Quartz requires very little regular upkeep. Simply cleaning with soap and water is enough for routine care.
- Stylish options – Sektion quartz comes in over a dozen color and finish options. Matte, polished, or concrete-look finishes are available.
- Affordability – IKEA quartz starts at price points accessible to most budgets. Exact pricing depends on factors outlined later in this article.
With the right installation, IKEA quartz countertops can last for many years in the busiest kitchens. Their combination of good looks, resilience, and reasonable pricing makes them one of IKEA’s most popular countertop choices.
Breaking Down the Costs of IKEA Quartz Countertops
Many factors influence the final cost of IKEA quartz countertops. Prices vary based on aspects like:
- Quartz material selected
- Countertop dimensions
- Edge profiles
- Additional customization and accessories
- Professional installation
Breaking the costs down piece-by-piece can give you a better idea of what to budget for your IKEA quartz countertop project.
Quartz Material Costs
IKEA offers four Sektion quartz product lines ranging from $54.99 to $124.99 per linear foot.
The materials include:
- Basic – A classic, uniform quartz surface available in two colors. $54.99/linear ft.
- Classic – Subtle designs and textures with a matte finish. 16 color options. $74.99/linear ft.
- High Definition – Unique veining and bold colors for a dramatic look. 8 options. $94.99/linear ft.
- Concrete Look – Replicates the visuals and texture of weathered concrete. 3 colors. $124.99/linear ft.
These prices reflect the cost of the unfinished quartz slabs. The linear foot prices provide a useful baseline for comparing material costs.
Countertop Dimensions
Linear foot pricing helps estimate materials, but the total square footage determines your real quartz cost. Measure the lengths of your countertops and map out any seams to calculate the project’s total dimensions.
Don’t forget factors like overhangs and backsplashes in your measurements. These increase materials required. IKEA includes up to 1 1/2″ overhang and 4″ backsplash in their square foot estimates.
Once you know dimensions in square feet, multiply by the linear foot price of your preferred Sektion quartz material. This gives you an approximated materials cost.
For example, for 25 square feet of the Classic line at $74.99 per linear foot, your estimated quartz cost is $1,874.75.
Edge Profiles
Edge profiles affect both aesthetic appeal and pricing. IKEA offers three profiles for Sektion quartz:
- Straight – A simple 90-degree angle with no shaping.
- Bullnose – A gently rounded edge.
- Bevel – A flat, angled edge.
Edge treatments add $3.49 per linear foot for bullnose edges and $7.99 per linear foot for beveled edges. Costs scale based on your project’s total perimeter length.
Well-finished edges give quartz a polished, upscale look. Many homeowners upgrade to bullnose or bevel treatments.
Additional Customizations
IKEA also provides add-ons to customize Sektion quartz:
- Integrated sink bowls start at $99.
- Specialty textures like checkerboard or herringbone patterns cost $7.99 per square foot.
- Adding lighting underneath cabinets runs $179 per cabinet section.
- Matching Sektion quartz backsplashes and side splashes help extend quartz designs.
Factor in expenses for any upgrades you select. Optional customization allows tailoring these countertops to your unique space.
Installation Costs
Professional countertop installation is highly recommended for quartz. Expect to pay around $40-$100 per hour for experienced installers. Rates vary based on your region and project details.
Most countertop pros estimate installation cost based on your kitchen’s linear footage. Average costs range from $150-$250 per linear foot installed.
For a 10 ft. run of countertops, you may pay $1,500-$2,500 for installation. Having an existing countertop tear-out adds around $500 to the job.
Consider getting multiple installation quotes to compare pricing. Look for experienced quartz professionals with strong references. Proper installation is crucial for ensuring durability and correct overhangs.
Total Project Cost Estimate
Adding together all the above factors provides a realistic budget estimate. As an example:
- Quartz materials – 25 sq. ft. at $74.99/linear ft. = $1,874.75
- Bullnose edges – 10 linear ft. at $3.49/linear ft. = $34.90
- Installation – Approx. 10 linear ft. at $200/linear ft. = $2,000
Total estimated cost: $3,909.65
Your unique selections and kitchen layout will determine your final price. Carefully calculating costs allows realistic budgeting for this significant kitchen investment.
Price Comparison to Other Quartz Brands
To better evaluate IKEA Sektion pricing, it helps to compare against other major quartz manufacturers.
Here is a look at cost ranges for popular quartz brands:
- Caesarstone – $57-$126 per sq. ft.
- Cambria – $55-$100 per sq. ft.
- Silestone – $45-$100 per sq. ft.
- Hanstone – $50-$100 per sq. ft.
- LG Viatera – $80-$126 per sq. ft.
- IKEA Sektion – $55-$125 per sq. ft.
IKEA quartz price points are very competitive, given the quality and selection available. In general, their Sektion line runs 10-20% less than comparable name-brand quartz.
Savvy shopping can sometimes yield quartz counters from big box stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s for under $50 per square foot. However, quality and selection are often limited.
For excellent value on well-made, stylish quartz, IKEA remains hard to beat. Their combination of affordability and quality make Sektion an appealing choice for many homeowners.
Pros and Cons of Choosing IKEA Quartz
Below is a quick rundown of some key advantages and disadvantages associated with IKEA quartz countertops:
Pros:
- Affordable pricing for real quartz
- Wide range of colors/finishes
- Good performance and durability
- Streamlined buying process through IKEA
- Coordinated cabinets available
Cons:
- Limited sinks/fits without customization
- Must do own designing/measurement
- IKEA install not recommended
- Less variety than custom quartz shops
- Resale value unlikely to equal premium brands
For most homeowners, the pros of value, quality, and convenience outweigh the cons. IKEA quartz provides an accessible entry point to upgrade to this popular surface.
Important Considerations for Your Quartz Purchase
Keeping the following tips in mind can help ensure your IKEA quartz purchase goes smoothly:
- Carefully measure your space and map your layout. Inaccurate measurements can lead to costly quartz scraps.
- Review IKEA sink/faucet options to ensure compatibility with your planned design.
- Choose an experienced independent installer, not IKEA’s installation service.
- Inspect your slabs at pickup and before installation to ensure no damage.
- Consider adding matching Sektion quartz backsplashes and side splashes for a cohesive look.
- Research quartz care to understand required upkeep before purchase.
With some savvy planning, IKEA Sektion quartz offers a stellar balance of affordability and quality to transform your kitchen. Use the cost breakdown above to set realistic budget expectations for this significant yet rewarding investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does IKEA offer financing for quartz countertops?
A: Yes, IKEA offers financing options including an in-store credit card and personal loan program. Learn more at http://www.ikea.com/ms/en_US/customer_service/ikea_services/financing.html.
Q: Can IKEA quartz be installed as an outdoor kitchen countertop?
A: IKEA does not recommend their Sektion quartz for outdoor installation. The material is not formulated to withstand freeze-thaw cycles and temperature extremes. Outdoor-rated quartz or natural stone are better options.
Q: What thicknesses is IKEA quartz available in?
A: Sektion quartz comes in a standard 1 1/4 inch thickness. Thicker options up to 2 cm are sometimes available for additional cost depending on location.
Q: Does IKEA fabricate quartz countertops?
A: No, IKEA only sells quartz slabs. They do not offer in-house fabrication or installation. You must hire a separate countertop pro to cut and install your Sektion quartz.
Q: What warranties apply to IKEA quartz?
A: IKEA provides a limited 25-year warranty covering manufacturing defects in Sektion quartz. Limitations and exclusions apply. Visit an IKEA store for full details.
Conclusion
With the right planning and installation, IKEA Sektion quartz countertops offer homeowners an accessible price point for upgrading their kitchens with this popular surface. Costs for materials, edges, customization, and professional installation can add up, so accurately estimating your unique project’s budget is important. For those seeking fashionable, durable countertops at reasonable prices, IKEA quartz presents an excellent value proposition. With some smart preparation and design choices, you can enjoy beautiful, low-maintenance Sektion quartz within reach of many homeowners’ budgets.