Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodels due to their durability, low maintenance, and customizability. When budgeting for a renovation or new construction project, one of the key details to understand is how much quartz countertops cost per square foot installed. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the quartz countertop pricing factors and provide average installed costs so you know what to expect.
What influences the cost of quartz countertops?
Several variables affect the overall price of quartz countertops on a per square foot basis. Here are some of the main factors to consider:
- Quartz type and brand – There are many manufacturers of engineered quartz materials, such as Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone. Prices range from value collections to premium designer lines.
- Color and pattern – Basic solid colors tend to cost less than dramatic veined patterns or unique color blends.
- Edge treatments – Decorative edges like bullnose or ogee can add $10-$15 per linear foot. Simplistic squared edges keep costs down.
- Thickness – Standard thicknesses are 3/4” and 1-1/4”. Going thicker than 3/4” can increase cost by 25% or more.
- Installation – Hiring an experienced fabricator and installer is advisable over DIY. Complex projects may have higher labor fees.
- Countertop size – Total square footage plus any custom cutting required will determine materials needed.
- Additional customization – Options like special backsplashes or integrated sinks add further costs on top of the base price.
Considering your specific design preferences will help narrow down ballpark pricing. It’s also advisable to get quotes from a few quartz suppliers and fabricators to compare.
What is the average cost per square foot of quartz?
On average, expect to pay $40 to $100 per square foot for a quartz countertop installed. Here is a breakdown of typical pricing ranges:
- Low end: $40 – $60 per sq. ft.
- Mid-range: $60 – $80 per sq. ft.
- High end: $80 – $100+ per sq. ft.
The low end applies to budget quartz lines with simple edges and standard sizing. Mid-range covers many quality national brands with some customized details. High-end pricing is for premium designer collections with intricate patterns and thicknesses.
In general, basic countertops start around $40 per square foot while fully customized projects can exceed $100 per square foot installed. The total cost depends on which quartz materials and features you select.
Cost comparison to other countertop materials
How does the cost of quartz stack up against other popular countertop options? Here is an overview:
- Laminate: $20-$40 per sq. ft.
- Tile: $20-$50 per sq. ft.
- Wood: $40-$100 per sq. ft.
- Concrete: $50-$120 per sq. ft.
- Granite: $50-$150 per sq. ft.
- Marble: $70-$250 per sq. ft.
- Quartz: $40-$100 per sq. ft.
Quartz delivers high-end aesthetics and quality at a more affordable price point compared to natural stone. The cost is reasonable for most kitchen and bath remodels, making it a smart investment.
Factors that influence installed costs
A few additional details go into final installed costs. Here are some project variables that can increase your total price:
Cabinet/substrate mods – Adjustments to cabinet bases to allow countertops to fit seamlessly may add $200-$500 or more.
Demolition fees – Removing old countertops and disposal fees could cost $100-$300 depending on project scope.
Plumbing – Hooking up new sinks or fixtures may require a plumber at $50-$100 per hour.
Shipping – If not buying locally, shipping large slabs from the fabrication shop can cost hundreds.
Taxes – Sales tax varies by location but figure 8% on average.
Installation – Could take 2+ days for larger projects at $50-$150 per hour.
Location – Pricing is generally higher in areas like New York City or San Francisco.
Factoring in these additional expenses will give you the full cost to install new quartz countertops. Be sure to get a detailed quote outlining all line items.
Cost saving tips
If your budget is limited, here are a few ways to reduce the overall cost for your quartz countertops:
- Opt for a mid-range brand over premium options.
- Select a consistent solid white or neutral color.
- Use a standard 1-1/4” thickness.
- Keep edges simple – avoid decorative profiles.
- Install on existing cabinetry when possible.
- Purchase remnants/b-stock for uncommon sizes.
- Fabricate and install counters yourself if experienced.
With strategic choices, you can likely get installed costs down to $50 per square foot or less. But don’t sacrifice quality just to save money or your countertops won’t last.
Hiring a professional fabricator
Because quartz requires special cutting and seam placement, it’s advisable to have an experienced professional complete the fabrication and installation. Here are key questions to ask potential fabricators:
- Do you have experience with quartz specifically? Look for 5+ years.
- Can you provide examples and references from past quartz jobs?
- Do you offer design, templating, fabrication and install together?
- What tolerances do you adhere to for seams, overhangs, backsplashes, etc?
- Will you fabricate in your shop or on-site? In-shop is better.
- How precise are your cutting methods – waterjet, CNC, by hand? Waterjet is ideal.
- What type of adhesives and sealers do you use? Opt for high-quality.
- Do you offer sink cutouts, backsplashes, edge treatments?
- What are your standard warranties on fabrication and installation?
- What is the turnaround time from template to install?
A reputable quartz specialist will answer your questions confidently and assure you of an excellent result. Investing in professional fabrication is worth the cost.
Enhance your space with quartz countertops
When chosen with care and properly installed, quartz countertops can greatly enhance your kitchen or bath with beauty, luxury, and convenience. Knowing typical quartz costs per square foot gives you a helpful baseline for budgeting your project. Just be sure to account for all features, customizations, and installation factors when estimating the final investment. In return, you’ll gain a superbly crafted countertop that will deliver enjoyment for decades to come.