Quartz countertops, also known as engineered stone, have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects in recent years. But how much does quartz countertop cost? As you consider whether quartz is the right material for your home, it’s important to understand the factors that impact the price of quartz countertops.
What is Quartz Countertop?
Before diving into costs, let’s first look at what exactly quartz countertops are. Quartz countertops are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with polyresin binders. The quartz-binder mixture comprises approximately 90% ground quartz and 10% polyresin. It is combined under heat and pressure to create a slab.
Unlike natural stone materials like granite and marble, quartz is non-porous and does not require routine sealing. The resin makes quartz more flexible and resistant to damage. Quartz countertops are available in a wide array of colors and patterns to suit any style.
Benefits of quartz countertops include:
- Durability – quartz is very hard and resistant to scratches, heat, and stains.
- Low maintenance – does not require sealing or frequent polishing.
- Consistent patterning – manufactured in controlled environments for uniformity.
- Variety of colors – available in unlimited colors and patterns.
- Non-porous – prevents bacteria growth and stains from sinking in.
Now that we’ve covered the basics of what quartz countertops are, let’s discuss the cost.
Quartz Countertop Cost Factors
Several factors determine the overall investment for quartz countertops. These include:
Type of Quartz
Not all quartz is created equal. The price varies based on the quartz brand you choose. Higher end, premium brands tend to cost more than value or budget options.
Some of the most popular national brands of quartz include Silestone, Caesarstone, Cambria, and Viatera. These tend to range on the higher end of the price spectrum. Home Depot’s house brand Zodiaq is a more budget-friendly quartz option.
The price difference comes down to factors like reputation, variety, technology, patterns, durability testing, and even country of origin. Higher priced, premium quartz tend to have more complex patterns, colors, warranties, and technological innovation.
Color and Pattern
As with the brand, the specific color and pattern of quartz you select impacts the price. Unique patterns and designs tend to cost more than basic solid colored quartz. For example, quartz made to mimic natural marble or granite patterns are typically pricier.
Also, different color families can impact the price. Neutral whites and blacks usually cost less than bold, bright colors. Any special treatments like metallic or glass flecks will increase the cost as well.
Location
Regional pricing differences mean quartz may cost more in some parts of the country than others. Factors like local supply and demand, shipping distances, and mineral availability all contribute to location-based pricing.
Higher-priced metropolitan areas like New York City or San Francisco will likely pay more for installation compared to rural locations. Be sure to look up average quartz countertop costs for your local area.
Fabrication & Installation
The costs associated with custom measuring, fabricating, edging, transportation, and installation will all affect your final invoice. Simple edges like square corners or eased edges are most affordable. More complex edge profiles, backsplashes, cutouts, and seam placement will drive up fabrication expenses.
Likewise, the cost of skilled labor may vary depending on your contractor and location. Be sure to get an itemized estimate of all fabrication and installation charges.
Thickness & Type of Edge
Quartz slabs are available in various thicknesses. The most common options are:
- 3/4 inch – best suited for residential kitchen countertops. Provides an attractive profile with minimal material costs.
- 1 1/4 inches – a thicker profile typically used for commercial projects. Adds ruggedness.
- 2 cm – thinner and more affordable but can be prone to cracks. Not ideal for heavily used spaces.
Edge styles like laminated edges vs quirk mitred edges also cause variances in final price. Thicker edges generally cost more due to increased materials and fabrication time.
Countertop Size & Layout
The total square footage and layout of your quartz countertops will have a direct impact on price. Larger, expansive designs will clearly use more material than a petite galley kitchen.
However, also consider that more countertop seams, corners, and complex edges will drive up fabrication prices. A good fabricator can help optimize the layout to minimize waste and expenses.
What’s the Average Cost of Quartz Countertops per Square Foot?
So what does all this mean in terms of real per square foot pricing? Here is a look at typical per square foot costs based on the above factors:
- Low end: Budget quartz with simple edges starts around $40 per square foot installed. This assumes straightforward fabrication and installation and uses lower-priced quartz options.
- Mid-range: Most commonly expect to pay $50-70 per square foot for nicer brand quartz with eased or rounded edges. This suits most residential kitchens.
- High end: For premium designer quartz with intricate edges/patterns expect to pay $70-100+ per square foot installed. High-end materials, fabrication, and installation will put you at the top of this range.
- Average price: If planning for a budget, use $55-65 per square foot as an average starting point. Costs may decrease with smaller projects or increase with greater complexity.
As you can see, materials alone make up $25-50 per square foot. The remainder covers fabrication and installation. Calculate your approximate countertop square footage and multiply by the price per square foot for your quartz type to estimate the costs.
Keep in mind that most quotes are price per linear foot including both length and depth. Make sure to clarify the exact pricing model upfront before comparing estimates.
Cost Comparison to Other Countertop Materials
To better understand the value of quartz, it helps to compare against other popular countertop materials:
- Granite countertops cost a similar $40-70 per square foot installed. Granite needs yearly sealing but offers distinct natural patterns.
- Marble countertops usually range from $60-75 installed for average marble. Higher-end marble can exceed $100 per square foot. Marble stains easily and requires frequent sealing.
- Soapstone countertops start around $70 per square foot installed. Soapstone is very durable but also needs yearly sealing. The soft look may show signs of wear over time.
- Laminate countertops only cost $10-25 per square foot making them the most budget-friendly option. Durability and heat resistance is inferior to natural stone and quartz.
- Butcher block countertops start around $30 per square foot for basic configurations. They require diligent maintenance to prevent water damage or warping.
- Tile countertops have a wide range, starting as low as $10 per square foot for DIY ceramic tile. Porcelain or stone tiles installed can cost up to $50-70 per square foot.
- Concrete countertops typically range from $50-105 per square foot depending on specialized coloring and finishing. The heavy material requires cabinet reinforcement.
Factors That Increase Quartz Countertop Costs
There are several factors that can increase the price of your new quartz countertops. Being aware of these added expenses allows you to plan and budget accordingly.
- Specialty edge styles like ogee, chamfer, chiseled, and dupont adds fabrication time and cost.
- Thicker slabs (2cm+) use more material and are harder to maneuver during cutting.
- Intricate seam placement increases planning and cutting time in fabrication.
- Custom shapes, curves, and edge profiles requires expert fabrication skills.
- Special cutouts for sinks and cooktops need precise measurements and cuts.
- Unique patterns like veining, shimmering, and granular looks add cost.
- Large spans over 25 sq. ft. must account for additional support.
- Quartz backsplashes require extra planning, cutting, and installation.
- High-traffic commercial applications require thicker/stronger materials.
- Rush orders or quicker turnaround times can increase costs.
Being flexible on edge details, seam placements, and custom flourishes helps keep quartz countertop costs affordable. Opting for a prefab sample versus total customization is often cheaper as well.
How Thickness Impacts Quartz Countertop Prices
Quartz slab thickness options include:
- 2cm – Approximately 3/4″. The thinnest and most affordable option.
- 3cm – Around 1 1/4″ thickness. The most popular choice for residential use.
- 5cm – Roughly 2″ thickness. Only used in rare cases where extreme durability is needed.
Here is how thickness impacts per square foot pricing:
- 2cm quartz costs $10-15 less per square foot than 3cm.
- 3cm quartz costs $25-50 more per square foot than 2cm.
- 5cm quartz costs $50-75 more per square foot than 3cm.
In summary, pricing increases significantly with thickness. Only opt for thicker quartz if you have an extensive overhang or need to support an especially heavy load. The extra durability comes at a steep price.
Does Thicker Quartz Justify the Added Expense?
The cost increase from 3cm to 5cm quartz is quite substantial. In many cases, the additional thickness provides minimal extra benefit for residential use.
The exception is for kitchen islands or bars that need to support seating. Spans over 25″ without underlying support should consider a thicker profile. This prevents potential cracking or sagging over time.
For most typical countertops, 3cm provides durability and performance at the best value. It offers a nice aesthetic profile as well. Thicker profiles change the look and feel underhand, along with driving up cost.
Consider your functional needs, then decide if spending 50%+ extra per square foot for that barely perceptible 5cm thickness is worthwhile or not. Often the money is better spent on higher-end edging or patterns you can actually see and appreciate.
Cost to Install New Cabinets Along with Quartz Countertops
Installing new quartz countertops provides a great opportunity to upgrade your entire kitchen or bath with new cabinetry as well. What is the combined cost for cabinets and quartz counters?
The average cost to install new kitchen cabinets is $75-250 per linear foot. This equates to $3,000-10,000 or more for a full kitchen system. Bathroom vanities may range from $800-2,500 installed.
When budgeting for a kitchen or bath remodel that includes both new quartz countertops and cabinets, plan for:
- Quartz countertops: $55-70 per square foot
- Cabinet installation: $100-300 per linear foot
- Total for 10×10 kitchen: $7,000-$12,000
- Total for 5×7 bathroom: $4,000-$7,000
This accounts for mid-range prices on both the cabinetry and quartz. Higher-end materials, more complex layouts, and extensive demolition of existing spaces can all push these costs even higher.
That covers the main costs to factor in if you are considering adding quartz countertops and new cabinets together. Be sure to get quotes outlining all expected expenses for your specific project.
Does Installation of Quartz Countertops Require Professional Installation?
While a DIY installation of laminate or tile countertops is doable, quartz countertops absolutely require professional installation. Here are some top reasons why:
Quartz slabs weigh over 100 pounds per square foot – Extraordinarily dense and back-breaking to maneuver as a DIYer.
Precise seam placement – Seams in quartz need to be nearly invisible. This requires great skill.
Special equipment needed – Proper lifting, cutting, polishing requires tools like cranes, wet saws, routers, etc.
Perfect support – Cabinets must be reinforced and properly prepped to bear the weight.
Expertise working with material – Mishandling even a small section results in permanent damage.
Elaborate edges – Professional grade router bits and training is needed to execute custom edges well.
Minimize mistakes – Even small chips, cracks or uneven seams will mar appearance.
Warranty requirements – Most manufacturers require certified installer for any warranty protection.
For best results, always hire a professional fabricator/installer for your quartz countertops. While pricier than doing it yourself, you ensure the job is done right the first time.
Quartz Countertops Price Per Square Foot by Brand
To give you a better idea of real-world quartz countertop prices, here is an overview of price per square foot for some of the most popular national brands:
- Silestone Quartz: $57-82 per square foot
- Caesarstone Quartz: $68-98 per square foot
- Cambria Quartz: $70-120 per square foot
- Viatera Quartz: $80-110 per square foot
- LG Quartz: $55-75 per square foot
- Quartz Master: $40-60 per square foot
- Cosentino Dekton: $75-150 per square foot
- Vicostone Quartz: $38-50 per square foot
- ** MSI Q Premium:** $50-65 per square foot
- Samsung Radianz: $57-68 per square foot
- Caesar Ceramics: $58-72 per square foot
There can be substantial price ranges within brands based on the color, pattern, and thickness chosen. Be sure to compare both material and installation costs when evaluating different vendor price quotes.
Cost Saving Tips for Quartz Countertops
There are several ways to get the beauty of quartz countertops while keeping within budget restraints:
- Select a mid-range brand of quartz instead of premium name brands to save $10-15 per square foot.
- Use a simplified edge like square, eased, or small bevel instead of decorative edges.
- Reuse existing cabinets and just replace the countertop to save thousands.
- Install a smaller surface area like a bathroom vanity instead of full kitchen.
- DIY the demo and disposal of old countertops to reduce labor fees.
- Provide your own sink and cooktop instead of custom integrating new appliances.
- Consider pre-fabricated edges and cutouts instead of 100% custom.
- Time installation in off-peak seasons when demand is lower to negotiate discounts.
- Supply your own materials instead of using fabricator sourced slabs.
Being flexible on project scope and timing while simplifying edges and patterns will yield the most cost-effective quartz countertop installation.
Quartz Countertops: An Investment That Pays Off
While quartz countertops are certainly not the cheapest option, they are a worthwhile investment in the beauty and function of your home. With proper care and cleaning, quartz countertops will maintain their good looks for decades to come.
Unlike granite or marble that requires frequent sealing, or grout on tile that easily stains, quartz offers a nearly maintenance-free experience. The durability and longevity make up for the higher initial price over time.
IfGoing with a mid-range quartz at $55 per square foot allows you to balance cost versus quality. This transforms the look of your space for thousands less than premium designer quartz.
With the variety of color and pattern options, quartz brings custom style that enhances any kitchen or bath. By understanding the key factors that impact pricing and using creative cost management, you can enjoy quartz countertops that fit your budget and lifestyle.