Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom renovations due to their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance. However, quartz is also one of the more expensive countertop materials on the market. If you’re considering quartz for your next project, you’re likely wondering – how much will quartz countertops cost?
The cost of quartz countertops will depend on several factors:
Quartz Type and Brand
There are many different brands and varieties of engineered quartz countertops to choose from, and prices can range dramatically between budget and high-end options.
Some of the most popular quartz brands include:
- Caesarstone – Known for their innovative styles and patterns. Mid-range pricing, roughly $50-100 per square foot installed.
- Cambria – High-end quartz made in the USA. Costs approximately $100-150 per square foot installed.
- Silestone – Offers a wide array of colors and textures. Budget-friendly, starting around $50 per square foot.
- Vicostone – Affordable quartz option, prices from $40-60 per square foot installed.
- Quartz Master – Value-oriented brand with more limited color options. Starting around $35 per square foot installed.
The specific color, pattern, and finish you choose will also impact cost. More complex designs and delicate finishes will be pricier.
Installation
Quartz countertop installation costs make up a significant portion of your total price. On average, expect to pay $40-100 per hour for professional installation.
The time required will depend on the size of your kitchen or bath. Larger, more complex projects with special cutting or edge treatments will take longer and cost more for labor.
Countertop Size and Layout
The total square footage of your quartz countertops will be a major cost determinant. Prices are usually quoted per square foot, including both material and installation.
On average, expect to pay:
- $80-150 per square foot for mid-range quartz
- $100-250 per square foot for high-end quartz
Keep in mind that most quotes are based on a contiguous countertop area. If you have multiple separate countertop sections, each will be priced individually.
An L-shaped kitchen or bathroom with quartz on multiple surfaces can add up quickly. Make sure your contractor gives you an itemized estimate so you understand what is included.
Custom Edges and Cutouts
Edge treatments and any required cutouts for sinks or appliances will also affect your quartz countertop cost.
A basic square edge adds little to the price. More intricate edges like ogees, bevels, eased, or mitered edges will cost $5-15 extra per linear foot.
Cutouts for sinks and faucets are simpler in quartz than natural stone. Expect to pay $50-100 per cutout depending on the size.
Thickness
Quartz countertops come in standard thicknesses of 3/4″ or “1 1/2”. The thicker option provides more visual mass and depth. It costs $10-20 more per square foot than the standard thickness.
Additional Factors
Other considerations that can raise your total quartz countertop investment include:
- Specialty backsplashes made with quartz materials
- Integrated sinks pre-fabricated out of quartz
- Matching quartz tiles or thresholds
- Shipping costs for quartz sourced from a remote manufacturer
- Demolition and disposal fees to remove old countertops
Cost to Install Quartz Countertops by Size
To give you a better idea of real costs, here are some sample price ranges for installing quartz countertops based on countertop size:
- Small Bathroom Vanity (25 sq ft quartz): $2,000 – $4,000
- Kitchen Island (35 sq ft quartz): $3,000 – $6,000
- Medium Kitchen (50 sq ft quartz): $4,500 – $9,000
- Large Kitchen (75 sq ft quartz): $7,500 – $15,000
- Premium Kitchen (100+ sq ft quartz): $12,000 – $22,000+
As you can see, the cost of your quartz countertop installation can vary widely depending on the factors above. Carefully measure your space and get an itemized estimate before committing.
Quartz Countertops Price Comparison
To better understand the value quartz offers compared to other countertop materials, here is a pricing overview:
| Countertop Material | Average Cost Per Sq Ft Installed |
|-|-|
| Laminate | $20-50 |
| Tile | $15-50 |
| Butcher Block | $50-100 |
| Granite | $80-150 |
| Marble | $70-250 |
| Quartz | $70-150 |
Laminate and tile are the most budget-friendly options, starting under $50 per square foot installed. Granite and marble offer natural beauty, but are prone to staining and etching. Quartz provides the elegance of stone without as much maintenance.
For those wanting high-end style and resilience without the highest price tags, quartz offers an attractive middle ground. Costs are on par with many granite options.
Should I Expect Quartz Countertops to Add Resale Value?
Given their popularity among buyers, quartz countertops can increase your home’s resale value, making them a smart investment.
In the kitchen especially, quartz is highly desirable for its durability, appearance, and low maintenance. According to Remodeling Magazine’s “Cost vs. Value Report”, granite and quartz countertop upgrades recoup over 60% of their cost at resale.
Of course, return varies based on local markets. But in most cases, splurging for quartz over more basic materials like laminate should pay off in added value.
Just focus on versatile, neutral colors vs bold hues or highly customized designs. This gives your countertops the best chance of appealing to potential future buyers.
Pros and Cons of Quartz Countertops
Before deciding if quartz is the right material for your home, weighing the benefits and downsides can help:
Pros of Quartz Countertops
- Extremely durable and scratch resistant
- Easy to keep clean
- Resists staining, etching, and heat damage
- Antimicrobial properties inhibit bacteria growth
- Available in wide range of colors and patterns
- Consistent appearance without natural stone flaws
- Non-porous so liquids don’t penetrate
- Low maintenance compared to natural stone
- Long lifespan of 15-20 years or longer
- Adds value for resale
Cons of Quartz Countertops
- Higher cost than laminate or tile
- Can chip if subjected to sharp impacts
- Needs periodic resealing of seams
- Some designs show fingerprints easily
- Limited number of suppliers
- Resists heat damage but not advisable as trivet
- Can’t be restored by polishing or refinishing
Which Brand of Quartz Countertop is Best?
With so many quartz countertop brands on the market, it can be tricky choosing which offers the best quality and value.
Here is a closer look at some of the top quartz countertop brands to consider:
Caesarstone
One of the pioneers of engineered quartz surfaces, Caesarstone is known for their creative designs and reliable quality. Their countertops come with a lifetime limited warranty. Their signature toughness makes their quartz ideal for busy kitchens.
Price Range – $$-$$$
Top Choices – Raven, Emperadoro, Tuscan Dawn
Cambria
Made in the USA from premium natural quartz, Cambria is committed to sustainability and thoughtful design. They offer a huge range of colors and patterns to suit any style. Cambria backs their craftsmanship with a lifetime limited warranty.
Price Range – $$$-$$$$
Top Choices – Brittanicca, Summerhill, Whitehall
Silestone
Known for pioneering quartz surfaces in the 1980s, Silestone provides excellent durability and stain resistance at more affordable prices. Their stellar warranty covers 15 years of residential use.
Price Range – $-$$
Top Choices – Eternal Calacatta Gold, White Arabesque, Pearl Jasmine
LG Viatera
This high-end brand uses premium Italian quartz to achieve unique designs with vibrant colors and glossy finishes. LG Viatera offers one of the longest warranties at 15 years.
Price Range – $$$-$$$$
Top Choices – Super White, Cirrus White, Matte Black
DuPont Zodiaq
Produced by innovative materials company DuPont, Zodiaq quartz fuses natural quartz with proprietary resins for unbeatable performance. Their patterns mimic natural stone with realistic detail.
Price Range – $$-$$$
Top Choices – Glacier White, Carrara Mist, Calacatta Laza
No matter which brand you select, always be sure to carefully vet warranties, and buy from authorized sellers. This ensures you get authentic materials that live up to the durability and appearance you expect.
How Much Does Quartz Countertop Installation Cost?
The installation process is similar for all major quartz brands. Hiring professional installers is highly recommended, as quartz requires specialized tools for proper cutting, hole drilling, edge polishing, and securing seams.
You can expect to pay the following costs for quartz countertop installation:
- Template creation and measurements: $150 – $400
- Cutting and prefabrication of slabs: $800 – $2,000
- Delivery of materials: $100 – $500
- Installation labor: $40 – $100 per hour
- Misc supplies/materials: $50 – $200
- Removal and disposal of old countertop: $50 – $150
Total estimated cost range: $1,200 – $4,000+
This can vary based on your kitchen size, layout, edge profiles, and other project specifics. Be sure to get an itemized quote from installers.
How to Save Money on Quartz Countertops
If your budget is tight, don’t worry – there are ways to reduce your overall investment in quartz:
- Select a lower priced quartz variety like Vicostone rather than premium brands.
- Ask for a contractor discount from big box stores and supply warehouses.
- Choose standard 1 3/4″ thickness rather than 2″ or 3″ options.
- Install smaller countertop sections rather than full slabs.
- Opt for square edge profiles instead of decorative ogee, bullnose, etc.
- Do your own sink cutouts to avoid added fees.
- Reuse your existing countertop base cabinets if in good shape.
- Hire local fabricators instead of national companies to save on transportation.
- Provide your own lighting or plumbing fixtures rather than packaged options.
- Install countertops yourself if you have experience with fabrication.
With some savvy choices to cut costs, you can still achieve the high-end look and quality feel of quartz within budget constraints.
Quartz Countertop Cost: Final Thoughts
While not the cheapest option, quartz countertops offer unparalleled performance, beauty, and value. When chosen in versatile styles, quartz can increase your home’s resale appeal.
Aim for $70 – $150 per square foot installed for quality mid-range quartz options. Be sure to get an itemized estimate and calculate all required linear feet.
While the initial cost may be higher than some materials, quartz’ longevity, easy care, and resistance to damage pay off for years to come. By choosing quartz over laminate or tile, you can enjoy worry-free use and elegance for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions About Quartz Countertop Costs
How much does a basic kitchen quartz countertop cost?
For a medium sized kitchen with about 50 square feet of standard quartz in neutral colors, expect to pay $4,500 – $9,000 installed.
What is the most affordable quartz brand?
Vicostone, Quartz Master, and Silestone make more budget-friendly quartz options starting around $40 per square foot.
Should I expect to pay more for white quartz?
Whites and light colors do come at a 10-15% higher cost than darker varieties which hide flaws more easily.
Can I install quartz myself and save on labor?
Only if you have professional experience fabricating countertops. The specialized cuts, edgework, and seaming are best left to the experts.
Is it cheaper to just buy quartz slabs without installation?
You can sometimes save 20-30% buying slabs only. But keep in mind you still need to pay for custom fabrication and installation.
How thick should quartz countertops be?
Standard 3/4” thickness is suitable for most homes. Go for 1 1/4” or 1 1/2” only if you need very sturdy surfaces for heavy use.
Should I expect to pay more for a quartz backsplash?
Yes, adding acoordinating 4” quartz backsplash will add about $15-30 per linear foot plus extra fabrication and installation time.
Can I put hot pots and pans directly on quartz?
It’s best to use a trivet or hot pad. While quartz resists heat damage better than other materials, direct high heat could still potentially damage or discolor the surface.
How much cheaper is granite than quartz?
On average, granite runs $80-150 per square foot installed, so pricing is very comparable to mid-range and premium quartz options.
Will quartz countertops increase my home value?
Yes, installing quartz rather than laminate or ceramic can boost resale value. Quartz offers the look of stone without all the maintenance.
How Much Did Your Quartz Countertops Cost? Final Thoughts
Quartz countertops can range from affordable to luxury-level depending on the factors above. Carefully calculate your total square footage and add up options like edge profiles. For a quality mid-range quartz in today’s market, expect to invest $70 – $150 per square foot installed.
While not the most budget-friendly choice, quartz offers homeowners unparalleled durability and style with less maintenance than natural stone. By selecting versatile, neutral hues, your new quartz countertops should retain their appeal and value for decades to come.