Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodels due to their durability, low maintenance, and wide range of colors and patterns. However, quartz is generally more expensive than materials like laminate or tile. Prices can vary significantly based on the quality of the material, complexity of the project, and other factors. This guide will examine the cost considerations for a new quartz countertop installation.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes called engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz makes up over 90% of the material and ensures an extremely hard, non-porous surface.
Unlike natural stone materials like granite and marble, quartz does not require sealing and is highly resistant to scratches, stains and heat. The resin binding minimizes quartz’s vulnerability to cracks and chips.
Quartz offers the look and feel of natural stone with increased durability. The resins allow quartz to come in a wide range of colors and patterns not found in natural materials.
Cost Factors for Quartz Countertops
Several variables determine the total costs of a new quartz countertop installation:
- Quartz material quality: Higher quality quartz costs more per square foot. The grade and appearance affects price.
- Edge treatments: Decorative edges like ogee and bullnose add labor and material costs versus straight cut.
- Thickness: Standard thickness is 3/4″, but thicker 1 1/4″ provides more durability and costs more.
- Color and pattern: Simple solid colors are most affordable. Unique patterns and coloring increase costs.
- Installation: Complex projects with more seams, cutouts and challenges take more time and skill to install.
- Square footage: Total countertop size directly impacts overall project costs.
- Location: Regional variables like cost of living and labor rates influence install costs.
We’ll examine these factors more closely to better understand what goes into quartz countertop pricing.
Quartz Material Costs
The type of quartz material chosen has the largest impact on the project budget. Quartz pricing ranges from $50 per square foot on the low end, up to $150 or more per square foot for premium brands.
Entry-level Quartz – $50-70 per square foot
The most affordable quartz options cost between $50-70 per square foot installed. At this price point, expect limited color and pattern options along with lower performance standards. Entry-level quartz may be prone to more scratches and damage over time.
Some examples of economy brands include IKEA, Vicostone, MSI Q Premium Natural Quartz, PentalQuartz, and Ceasarstone Standard. These provide a more basic quartz product with fewer color variations.
Mid-range Quartz – $70-100 per square foot
Most quality quartz materials fall within the mid-range category of $70-100 per square foot installed. These offer good performance, appearance and color options from reputable brands.
Some popular options in this range include Silestone, Cambria, MSI Q Premium Natural Quartz, LG Viatera, Samsung Radianz, DuPont Zodiaq, and Caesarstone Standard.
This price tier gives homeowners plenty of attractive modern, natural or unique designer looks for their space. You can expect durable, low-maintenance countertops that resist scratches, stains and heat very well.
Premium Quartz – $100-150+ per square foot
For luxury high-end quartz with top-notch performance, exotic patterns and maximum design flexibility, expect to pay $100 per square foot and above.
Premium designer brands like Caesarstone, Silestone, Cambria, and DuPont Zodiaq offer unique appearances like realistic marble and quartzite looks. These feature intricate veining, crystals, shells, gems and 3D-mica that mimic natural stone.
Besides eye-catching visuals, premium quartz delivers superior durability and strength. It offers stain, scratch and heat resistance exceeding standard warranties. Materials are carefully engineered for smooth polished finishes.
These high-end materials provide consumers with truly unique, customized countertops. However, the exotic patterns and ornate detailing push up costs significantly. Premium quartz pricing starts around $100 per square foot, ranging up to $200+ per square foot for intricate handmade designs.
How Edge Treatments Impact Cost
The edge means the finishing along the front and sides of the countertop. Edge options include:
- Straight – A simple 90-degree cut corner. Most affordable option.
- Bevel – Angled chisel-cut edges for a softer profile.
- Ogee – An elegant indented S-curve on the edge.
- Bullnose – A rounded, convex shaped edge finishes the profile.
More complex edges like Ogee and Bullnose require special cutting tools and skilled fabricators to shape correctly. This extra labor increases costs $10-20 per linear foot typically.
For example, upgrading a 10 linear foot straight edge to bullnose would add $100-$200 to the total price.
Average Edge Treatment Costs
| Type | Price per Linear Foot |
|---|---|
| Straight | $0 |
| Bevel | $5-10 |
| Ogee | $12-18 |
| Bullnose | $15-20 |
The type of sink and cooktop also impacts edging. Integrated undermount sinks and beveled cooktops need precisely cut edges for a seamless fit. Expect added costs for built-in appliances.
How Thickness Impacts Cost
Quartz counter tops come in standard 3/4” thickness, or thicker 1 1/4” options for heavy duty use.
3/4″ thickness works well for most applications, especially in homes. It offers an affordable price while maintaining strength and durability.
Upgrading to 1 1/4” thickness provides even more robust performance for busy kitchens. The thicker profile minimizes any sagging or flexing over time. It also enables longer unsupported spans.
Here are the differences:
- 3/4″ thick quartz costs $55-75 per square foot installed
- 1 1/4″ thick quartz costs $70-100 per square foot installed
The thicker material has 20-30% higher prices, but provides 40-50% more strength and rigidity. This makes it ideal for commercial projects.
If debating between the two, consider 1 1/4” thickness for:
- Kitchen islands
- Bars
- High traffic areas
- Commercial projects
How Size Affects Quartz Countertop Cost
The overall size of the project directly correlates with total costs. Larger surface areas require more material and time to fabricate and install.
Expect to pay around $100 per linear foot for typical 30-36” deep countertops. This accounts for standard 3/4” thickness with straight edge finish.
- For example, a 10 foot long x 2 foot wide section would be approximately $1000.
- A 5 foot x 5 foot island may cost around $2500.
In general, expect quartz countertop installation to cost $70-150 per square foot depending on the factors discussed. Use this estimated range when budgeting:
- Small Kitchens (30 sq ft): $2100 – $4500
- Medium Kitchens (40 sq ft): $2800 – $6000
- Large Kitchens (60+ sq ft): $4200 – $9000+
- Bathroom Vanities (10 sq ft): $700 – $1500
Measure the linear footage needed for each section to estimate costs more precisely. Remember to account for extra cutting and seams around cooktops, sinks, curves and corners. These often add 15% or more to material requirements.
How Location Impacts Price
Location plays a role in quartz countertop costs, with prices varying across different states and regions. Areas with higher costs of living and labor rates typically see higher install costs.
Quartz Countertop Costs by Region:
- West Coast Install Range: $80-120 per sq ft
- Northeast Install Range: $70-100 per sq ft
- Southeast Install Range: $60-90 per sq ft
- Midwest Install Range: $55-80 per sq ft
For example, a San Francisco install may range from $4000-8000 while the same project in Kansas City runs $3200-5000.
Be sure to get estimates from local countertop pros to understand precise costs in your area. Online cost calculators can also provide ballpark regional pricing.
Additional Cost Considerations
Some additional points to factor into your budget:
- Backsplashes: Many projects include 4-6” backsplashes. These cost around $10-20 per linear foot installed.
- Demolition: Removing old countertops averages $2-3 per sq ft. Proper disposal fees also apply.
- Modifications: Cutouts for sinks ($100-200 each) and cooktops ($200-300) add costs, as do special trims and treatments.
- Shipping: For high-end exotic materials only available from certain suppliers, shipping and handling can run into the thousands.
Installation Costs
Fabrication and installation costs make up 30-50% of total project pricing. These rates vary based on the complexity of the project and local labor costs.
Expect to pay installers around $40-70 per hour for their work. Rates range higher in major metro areas.
Here are typical installation charges:
- Basic install: $35-50 per sq ft
- Complex install: $55-70 per sq ft
Simple countertop layouts with few seams or cutouts fall on the lower end of installation pricing. Elaborate designs with tile backsplashes, undermount sinks, built-in cooktops, and decorative edges run higher.
Many shops charge a minimum fee of around $500 because of travel time, equipment, etc.
Be sure to get an itemized estimate listing the projected fabrication and installation hours and costs so you understand exactly what is covered.
Quartz Countertops Cost Calculator
Use our quartz countertop cost calculator to estimate your total project price:
- Step 1) Measure the linear footage needed and enter each section’s dimensions. Apply price per linear foot according to your desired thickness and edge.
- Step 2) Enter any additional options like backsplash, cutouts or special treatments.
- Step 3) Input your location’s average install labor cost range.
The calculator will provide a total estimated price for easy quartz countertop project budgeting. Be sure to get professional quotes before finalizing your countertop plans and materials.
Cost Saving Tips
Here are some ideas to help reduce quartz countertop costs:
- Select a mid-range quartz material without premium designer patterns.
- Choose standard 3⁄4” thickness and simple straight edge profiles.
- Look for quartz closeouts and overstock materials which may offer discounts.
- Use large format pieces to minimize seams and cutouts needed.
- Install backsplashes and sinks yourself to save on labor.
- Provide accurate field measurements to reduce fabrication waste and errors.
- Have countertops installed while doing a larger kitchen remodel to consolidate costs.
Even with the highest quality materials, strategizing your project can yield big savings on your new quartz countertops.
Conclusion
Quartz delivers a winning combination of beauty, durability and low maintenance. Pricing ranges widely based on your design choices and project details, but expect costs between $70-150 per square foot installed. Carefully review materials, edges, thickness, size, location, fabrication, installation and other expenses when budgeting. And be sure to get multiple quotes from reputable local countertop companies. With some smart planning, you can realize your dream of premium quartz countertops that will last for decades to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do quartz countertops cost compared to granite?
Quartz countertops generally cost $70-120 per square foot installed. They are 10-30% more expensive than natural granite, which ranges from $60-100 per square foot installed.
Are quartz countertops cheaper than marble?
Yes, quartz is significantly cheaper than marble. Marble countertops average $100-250 per square foot, over twice the cost of many quartz options.
How long will quartz countertops last?
Quartz countertops can last upwards of 15-20 years with proper care. Their longevity and durability are some of the main reasons homeowners choose quartz over materials like granite and marble.
Is quartz worth the extra cost over laminate?
Quartz provides superior durability, appearance and resale value over laminate. While laminate is cheaper initially, most homeowners consider the upgrade to quartz well worth the investment.
Can you get quartz countertops for under $50 per square foot?
It is extremely difficult to find reputable quartz materials and professional installation for under $50 per square foot total. Very low-end options may hit this range but sacrifice quality and durability.
Should I wait for a quartz sale?
Quartz doesn’t go on sale often, but some suppliers offer 5-15% discounts on closeouts or overstock materials which you can inquire about. For best selection and pricing, avoid limiting your options to only sale items.