White quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom renovations in recent years. With their beautiful, crisp white appearance and excellent durability, it’s easy to see why. But before deciding on white quartz, an important consideration is how much it will cost. Here is an extensive overview of what impacts the price of white quartz countertops and how much you can expect to budget for them.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz content typically makes up 90-94% of the material. Unlike natural stone countertops such as granite or marble, quartz is non-porous, making it very resistant to stains and scratches.
The resin binders allow quartz to be molded into countertops of consistent color and pattern. Pigments are added to create various color options, like crisp white. The end result is a durable, low-maintenance, and beautiful countertop perfect for busy kitchens.
Factors That Impact White Quartz Countertop Cost
Several factors go into determining the total cost of white quartz countertops for your kitchen or bath. Prices will vary depending on:
Quartz Brand
There are many quartz manufacturers to choose from. Higher end, premium brands like Caesarstone generally cost more. The lowest prices typically come from cheaper imported options. Stick to well-known, reputable quartz brands to ensure quality.
Color
Simple white and black quartz colors tend to be the most affordable options. More complex patterns and colored flecks will increase the price.
Quartz Grade
Quartz comes in standard, mid-range, and high-end grades. Higher quality grades have a more consistent appearance.
Thickness
Thicker quartz is more durable and retains its shape better, but comes at a higher cost. Standard thickness is 3/4″, mid-range is 1 1/4”-1 1/2”, and high-end can be up to 3”.
Installation
Hiring professional installers will increase the overall project expense compared to doing it yourself. The complexity of the job and custom cuts needed will also impact installation costs.
Countertop Size
The total square footage of countertops needed will have a direct impact on the price. More surface area = higher material and installation costs.
Average Cost for White Quartz Countertops
Taking all these factors into account, here are some averages costs for white quartz countertops:
- Low end: $50-$70 per square foot installed
- Mid-range: $70-$100 per square foot installed
- High end: $100-$150+ per square foot installed
According to the 2021 Houzz Kitchen Trends Study, the average homeowner spent $3,500 for quartz countertops in their kitchen remodel. This would be approximately 50 square feet of mid-range quartz.
However, you may pay less or more depending on your specific project requirements. The total price can add up quickly for larger kitchens or multiple bathrooms. It’s essential to get an itemized quote for your exact project specifications.
Cost Comparison to Other Countertop Materials
How does the cost of white quartz compare to other popular countertop materials? Here is a breakdown:
- Laminate: $20-$50 per square foot
- Butcher block: $40-$100 per square foot
- Granite: $60-$120 per square foot
- Marble: $60-$100 per square foot
- White quartz: $70-$150 per square foot
- Soapstone: $70-$100 per square foot
- Stainless steel: $100-$250 per square foot
So while not the cheapest option, white quartz delivers an unparalleled combination of quality, durability, and appearance that make it a sound investment for most homeowners. The 10-15 year lifespan and minimal maintenance requirements also add value compared to other materials.
Pros and Cons of White Quartz Countertops
Before deciding if white quartz is the right choice for your home, weigh some of the benefits against potential drawbacks:
Pros:
- Beautiful consistent white color
- Resists staining, etching, and scratching
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Non-porous so doesn’t require sealing
- Mold and mildew resistant
- Durable and long lasting (10-15 years)
- Matches any style from modern to traditional
- Adds brightness and makes rooms feel larger
- Resale value boost for the home
Cons:
- More expensive upfront cost
- Can chip if subjected to heavy impact
- Needs to be installed professionally
- Seams may be more visible
Is White Quartz Worth the Investment?
At the end of the day, white quartz provides an unmatched look that elevates any kitchen or bath design. For homeowners who want a crisp, bright, low-maintenance surface, quartz is absolutely worth the investment. With proper care and cleaning, white quartz countertops will maintain their like-new beauty for over a decade.
The key is planning ahead and budgeting extra if premium materials are important for your home remodeling plans. Shopping sales at home improvement stores or negotiating with quartz fabricators can potentially save on costs too. With some savvy planning, you can have stunning white quartz countertops that stay within your budget.
FAQ About White Quartz Countertops
How much does white quartz cost compared to white granite?
White granite will generally cost $20-30 less per square foot than white quartz. However, granite requires yearly sealing and is more prone to staining and etching over time. The slight upcharge for quartz pays off in easier maintenance and longevity.
What is the cheapest color of quartz?
Simple white or black quartz tend to be the most budget-friendly options. Caesarstone Piatra Grey and London Grey are examples of affordable dark colors. Bright whites like Namibia or Polar Stone are economical light quartz choices.
Is quartz worth the extra cost over granite?
With quartz you are paying more for man-made consistency versus the natural patterns of granite. For many homeowners, the increased durability and stain resistance of quartz justifies the small price premium. It ultimately comes down to your design preferences.
Should I get 3 cm or 2 cm thick quartz?
3 cm is recommended, especially for kitchen countertops. The extra thickness makes quartz more resistant to damage over time. For less used surfaces like bathroom vanities, 2 cm should suffice to save on costs.
Can quartz chips or cracks be repaired?
Minor chips and cracks can be repaired by a professional fabricator. The resin in quartz enables patching and smoothing over damaged areas. However, repairs may still be somewhat visible on close inspection. Preventing damage through proper use is best.
Conclusion
With an average installed price of $70-$100 per square foot, white quartz is on the more premium end for countertop materials. But its unparalleled durability, stain resistance, and crisp bright appearance make it a sound long-term investment for most homeowners. Paying extra for quality you can enjoy flawlessly for over a decade is worthwhile. By understanding what impacts the pricing and shopping smartly, you can find white quartz countertops in your budget. In terms of beauty and performance, white quartz is hard to beat!