Quartz countertops are a popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects due to their durability, aesthetic appeal, and reasonable cost compared to other natural stone surfaces. If you’re considering installing quartz counters, it’s important to understand what factors impact the total project cost so you can budget accordingly.
What is Quartz?
Quartz is an engineered stone made from crushed quartz aggregates combined with polymer resins and pigments. The resins bind the quartz particles together to form a hard, non-porous surface that is resistant to scratches, stains, heat, and cracks.
Quartz offers the look of natural stone with more consistent coloring and patterns. And unlike granite or marble, quartz does not need to be routinely sealed. This man-made composition makes quartz an ideal low-maintenance countertop for busy kitchens.
Cost Factors for Quartz Countertops
Several key factors determine the installed cost of quartz countertops:
Quartz Material Cost
This is the cost per square foot of the slabs themselves. Expect to pay $50-100 per square foot for quartz. More premium designer brands can run up to $140/sqft. The pattern and color you choose impacts the price – busy engineered designs and darker hues are often more expensive.
Edge Styles
You’ll need to factor in the edge treatment for your counters. A standard eased or beveled edge runs $10-20 per linear foot. More elaborate edge profiles like ogee, dupont, or waterfall can cost $25-50 per linear foot.
Installation Labor
Installing quartz countertops requires cutting, fastening, and polishing. Expect to pay $80-150 per hour for an experienced fabricator/installer. Total installation costs often run $35-75 per square foot.
Sink Cutouts and Backsplashes
Cutouts for sinks and cooktops can cost $100-200 each. Backsplashes run $10-25 per linear foot for materials and installation.
Demolition and Disposal
If you’re replacing existing counters, demolishing and disposing of the old tops can cost around $500-1000.
Average Quartz Countertop Costs
Given these factors, here are typical price ranges for installing quartz countertops:
- Low end: $80-100 per square foot for builder-grade quartz, standard edges, and basic installation.
- Mid-range: $120-150 per square foot for premium quartz, upgraded edges, some backsplashes and cutouts.
- High-end: $200+ per square foot for designer quartz, high-end edge details, intricate backsplashes, and cutouts.
So for a typical 25 square foot (25′ long x 1.5′ deep ) straight-line kitchen quartz countertop project, expect to invest $2,000 to $5,000+ depending on the materials and details selected.
Cost Saving Tips for Quartz Countertops
Here are some tips to help control costs for your quartz countertop installation:
- Select a mid-range quartz material without intricate patterns or bold coloring. This can save $20-50/sqft compared to designer slabs.
- Opt for a standard eased or beveled edge profile rather than heavily built-up edges.
- Limit backsplashes to high use areas like behind the kitchen sink and stove.
- Reuse existing cutouts for the sink and cooktop if possible.
- Install the tops yourself if you have remodeling experience.
- Provide precise field measurements to reduce fabrication waste and time.
- Shop around for the best installer price – quotes can vary significantly.
Factors That Increase Quartz Countertop Costs
Be aware that the following can potentially increase your overall quartz installation costs:
- Intricate shapes and seams – Curved or irregular countertops require extra fabrication time and seams that hike up installation work.
- Integral sinks – Having the sink basin carved out of the quartz slab is possible but substantially more expensive.
- Thick countertops – Edges thicker than the standard 3/4″ drive up material usage.
- Specialized tile backsplashes – Custom tile shapes, patterns, and borders add cost.
- Waterfall and extended edges – These edges require extra fabrication and installation work.
- Islands and peninsulas – More countertop footprint equals higher costs.
- Demolition of existing counters – Removing old tops adds labor fees.
FAQs About Installing Quartz Countertops
Does installer experience impact the cost of quartz counters?
Yes. An experienced quartz fabricator and installer who works efficiently can potentially complete jobs faster and with less waste, saving on labor and material expenses.
Does quartz need to be sealed like granite or marble?
No. Due to its non-porous composition, quartz does not require regular sealing to prevent stains and water damage. This also makes maintenance easy.
Can quartz counters be installed as DIY projects?
In theory, but it’s typically best left to the pros. Quartz requires special tools for cutting and finishing. Hiring a pro ensures proper installation and no post-project issues.
Is it cheaper to install quartz yourself?
Rarely. Unless you have access to professional fabrication and installation equipment, doing it yourself often results in higher material waste, more time, and an inferior finished product. Pros get better results faster.
Does every quartz countertop installation include backsplashes?
No. Simple installations may skip backsplashes to control costs. Many homeowners only do small sections behind sinks and cooktops. Full backsplashes are an upgraded detail.
Should I get quotes from different quartz fabricators?
Absolutely. Installer labor rates, material sourcing, and project bidding strategies can vary significantly and impact the final price. Shop around for the best deal.
The Bottom Line
Installed costs for quartz countertops range from $80-200 per square foot, depending on the materials and details chosen. Expect to budget $2,000 to $5,000 for a typical 25 square foot straight-line kitchen installation. Getting multiple quotes and selecting affordable options like standard edges and limited backsplashes can help control quartz countertop costs. An experienced installer is well worth the investment to ensure an expert countertop transformation you’ll enjoy for decades.