Installing a quartz countertop can add beautiful, durable, and easy-to-maintain surfaces to your kitchen or bath. However, quartz countertops are an investment. Understanding the costs involved will help you plan and budget for this home improvement project. Here is a detailed overview of the expenses to expect when installing a quartz countertop.
Quartz Countertop Cost Factors
Several key factors influence the overall installation costs for quartz countertops:
Material
- Quartz is made from roughly 90% ground quartz stone mixed with polymer resins. Higher quartz content typically means a more premium and expensive slab.
- There are different quartz brands (Samsung, Caesarstone, Cambria, etc.) and many proprietary quartz patterns and colors. Popular premium brands and styles cost $50-100+ per square foot.
- Basic quartz can start around $35 per square foot on the low end. The stone-look type will be more affordable than dramatic veining.
Labor
- Hiring a professional to cut, polish, transport, and install the quartz has labor costs. Fabrication often starts around $35-50 per linear foot.
- More complex job layouts, patterns, edging, etc. can drive up fabrication and installation labor expenses.
- Simple countertop installations may take a few hours while large projects with multiple surfaces could take several days.
Countertop Area
- The total square footage of the space you want to cover will significantly impact the project budget.
- Measure the length and width of existing counters or spaces for new installs to estimate materials needed.
- Most counters are 1.25 inches thick. Calculate area by multiplying length x width of each section.
Edges and Extras
- Edge profiles like bullnose, bevel, ogee, and laminated increase fabrication work. These cost $10-20+ per linear foot.
- Backsplashes, special cutouts, integrated sinks, and add-ons like trivets also raise the price.
- Lighted or glass onlays for a backsplash can range from $25-50 per square foot installed.
Average Quartz Countertop Installation Cost
Given the above factors, the total price to buy and install quartz countertops often ranges between $80-150 per square foot. This includes both material and professional installation.
As a general baseline:
- Low end: $80 per Sq.Ft. for simple white quartz, straight edge, and basic installation.
- Average: $100-125 per Sq.Ft. for mainstream brand, standard colors/patterns, and typical fabrication.
- High end: $150+ per Sq.Ft. for premium materials, complex layouts, and specialty fabrication/installation.
To budget for your specific project, take into account:
- Quartz selection: Brand, color/pattern, and slab sq. foot price point
- Linear footage: Measure countertop lengths needed
- Area: Length x width of each section
- Edges: Any edge profiles like bullnose or bevel
- Extras: Backsplashes, special cuts, sinks, lighting, etc.
Use the above details for a general estimate. Get quotes from experienced local installers to dial in pricing. They will measure and assess your job layout for exact costs.
Cost to Install Quartz Kitchen Countertops
The size and features of your kitchen directly impact the investment to install quartz countertops.
Small Kitchen
A typical 10×10 foot kitchen with 10 linear feet of counter may cost around:
- Quartz: 10 linear feet x 2 foot depth = 20 sq. feet x $100 per sq. foot = $2,000
- Basic Installation: 10 linear feet x $40 per linear foot = $400
- Total for Small Kitchen = $2,400
Medium Kitchen
A medium 20×15 foot kitchen with 30 linear feet of counter may cost around:
- Quartz: 30 linear feet x 2 foot depth = 60 sq. feet x $125 per sq. foot = $7,500
- Standard Installation: 30 linear feet x $50 per linear foot = $1,500
- Total for Medium Kitchen = $9,000
Large Kitchen
A spacious 30×20 foot kitchen with 60 linear feet of counter may cost around:
- Quartz: 60 linear feet x 2 foot depth = 120 sq. feet x $140 per sq. foot = $16,800
- Complex Installation: 60 linear feet x $65 per linear foot = $3,900
- Total for Large Kitchen = $20,700
These are rough estimates assuming typical quartz, edge profiles, and installation complexity. Get professional measurements and quotes for your specific kitchen layout and materials.
Cost to Install Quartz Bathroom Countertops
Bathroom quartz countertop installation costs depend on the vanity size and design. For example:
- Small vanity with 10 sq. feet of quartz at $100 per sq. foot and 5 linear feet installation at $40 per linear foot totals around $1,000.
- Double vanity with 25 sq. feet of quartz at $125 per sq. foot and 12 linear feet installation at $50 per linear foot totals around $3,250.
Measure your existing vanity spaces or designs to estimate bathroom quartz costs. Get quotes from fabricators based on total area, edges, cutouts, and labor time.
Factors That Increase Quartz Countertop Installation Costs
Several variables can drive up the cost of your quartz project:
- Premium materials like luxury brands or exotic imported quartz cost more per square foot.
- Specialty edges and profiles like a triple bullnose edge or mitered corners require extra fabrication.
- Intricate job layouts with multiple seams, edges, cutouts increase installation work.
- Backsplashes add labor and material costs, especially tile, glass, or decorative styles.
- Thicker countertops (2+ inches) use more quartz material per square foot.
- Rush orders to have the work completed faster typically incur surcharges.
- Remote location can increase trip fees if far from the installer’s shop.
Any above factors will likely increase the total expense compared to basic installations.
How Long Does It Take to Install Quartz Countertops?
The installation time varies significantly based on the scope of work:
- A simple small kitchen may only take a day or two for templating, fabrication, and install.
- A medium kitchen with multiple surfaces could take a few days to a week depending on fabrication schedules.
- For a large open concept kitchen with an island and many countertops, allow 2+ weeks from start to finish.
After selecting your slabs and edges, the fabricator will:
- Template your cabinets or spaces.
- Cut, polish, and finish the quartz pieces at their workshop (up to 1 week turnaround).
- Transport and professionally install the finished countertops.
Talk timeframes with your installer as durations can vary. Be flexible if you need the job done quickly.
Hiring a Quartz Countertop Installer
Proper installation is crucial for both the look and durability of your investment. Here are tips for hiring a quartz countertop pro:
- Review examples of their previous quartz jobs to ensure quality workmanship.
- Ask about their training and certifications specific to quartz installation.
- Get a few bids to compare pricing between reputable local companies.
- Verify they will do professional measurement and templating – no shortcuts.
- Choose a fabricator that offers a solid warranty on materials and installation.
An experienced quartz pro will handle the entire process seamlessly and stand behind their work. Take the time to select the right installer for the job.
Quartz Countertop Cost: Is it Worth It?
Quartz countertops are one of the pricier options compared to materials like tile, laminate, and granite. The key benefits that justify the investment include:
Aesthetics – Quartz offers beautiful, consistent patterns and color in your choice of sleek, modern styles.
Durability – Quartz is highly scratch, chip, and stain resistant. Seams are inconspicuous. Properly installed, it will last decades.
Low Maintenance – Quartz requires very little maintenance besides cleaning with soap and water.
Resale Value – Upgraded kitchen and bath countertops offer excellent return on investment. Quartz countertops can increase home value.
Health – Quartz does not require sealants and does not harbor bacteria and microbes.
While more expensive upfront than some options, quartz delivers lasting everyday luxury, beauty, and utility. Investing in high-quality materials and professional installation provides excellent long-term value.
Quartz Countertop Cost: Bottom Line
Here are quick facts on what to expect for your quartz countertop installation costs:
- Total Cost Range: $80 – $150 per sq. foot installed
- Kitchens: Start around $2,400 for small. $20,000+ for high-end large kitchens.
- Bathrooms: Start around $1,000 for simple vanity. $3,250+ for double vanity.
- Lead Times: 1-2 weeks for fabrication, plus 1-2 days for install.
To get accurate quotes for your specific project, contact reputable local quartz fabricators. They will measure your existing counters or spaces, discuss materials, edges, and options to give an exact price for the job.
With an experienced installer, take the time to select your perfect slabs. A professionally installed, quality quartz countertop will provide daily enjoyment and upgrade the look and utility of your kitchen or bath for decades to come.