Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for Canadian homeowners looking to renovate their kitchens or bathrooms. Made from engineered stone, quartz countertops offer exceptional durability, low maintenance, and stylish aesthetics at a more affordable price point compared to natural stone countertops like granite and marble. But how much does quartz countertop cost in Canada? Here is a detailed overview of quartz countertop costs, factors that influence pricing, and tips for getting the best deal.
Factors That Influence Quartz Countertop Costs
Several key factors determine the total installed price of quartz countertops in Canada:
Quartz Material and Brand
- The type of engineered quartz material and brand you select will impact cost. Popular brands like Caesarstone, Silestone, Cambria, Vicostone, and Quartz Master range in price from $50 to over $100 per square foot. Higher-end designer brands tend to cost more.
- Quartz contains 90-94% ground quartz particles combined with polymer resins and pigments. More quartz content can increase cost, as can special proprietary recipes and technology used to produce the material.
Color and Pattern
- Solid quartz colors like white and black tend to be the most affordable options. Unique colors like blues and greens and patterned quartz cost more due to extra manufacturing processes required.
- Many quartz brands offer different tiers of pricing according to color and style. For example, standard colors may be $65 per square foot, while premium colors are $75 per square foot.
Thickness and Edges
- Standard quartz thickness is 3/4 inches (2 cm). Going up to 1 1/4 inches (3 cm) or more can add $10-$15 per square foot. Thicker quartz is heavier and provides a more substantial feel.
- Edge profiles like ogee, bevel, and eased also impact quartz countertop price. Fancy edges typically add $3-$8 per linear foot. Simple eased or square edges cost less.
Installation Considerations
- The size and layout of your kitchen or bath space will determine labor time required for templating, fabricating, and installing your new quartz countertops. More surface area equals higher cost.
- Factor in costs for sealing seams between slabs, capping uneven walls, installing backsplashes, and adding special features like trivets. Most fabricators charge an hourly or per linear foot fee for these services.
- Location also plays a role. Prices tend to be higher in remote areas of Canada where installer availability is lower.
Average Quartz Countertop Costs in Canada
With all these factors in mind, here are some typical price ranges for quartz countertops in Canada:
- Basic Quartz Materials: $50-$70 per square foot for materials only
- Mid-Range Quartz: $70-$100 per square foot for materials only
- High-End Quartz: $100-$175 per square foot for materials only
- Average Total Installation: $100-$200 per square foot installed, including materials, fabrication, and installation
For a medium-sized kitchen with 30 square feet of countertop space, expect to invest around $3,000-$6,000 for installed quartz countertops in Canada.
Get free estimates from multiple quartz suppliers and fabricators before selecting materials to understand exact costs for your project.
Tips for Getting the Best Quartz Countertop Value
Here are some tips to help you maximize value and get the most competitive quartz countertop prices:
- Shop around and get quotes from 3-4 quartz suppliers to compare material costs. Negotiate for discounts on bulk purchases.
- Consider lower-cost quartz options for best value. Brands like Vicostone, Caesarstone, and Silestone offer quality at more affordable prices.
- Opt for a simpler edge profile like eased or square instead of fancy edges. Skip thicker edges unless essential.
- Look for quartz remnants or loose stock at suppliers to save 30-50% on materials. Great option for small spaces.
- Provide accurate measurements and template to fabricators for an exact quote—avoid surprises.
- Offer flexibility on timing—installers may offer discounts for off-peak season installation.
- Check for special promotions or sales events for quartz materials and installation packages.
- Consider DIY installation if you have experience. Otherwise hire a pro. Poor cutting and seams reduce the look and lifespan.
FAQs About Quartz Countertop Costs
How much does quartz countertop cost per square foot?
On average, expect to pay $100-$200 per square foot for installed quartz countertops in Canada, including the cost of materials, fabrication, and professional installation. The material alone ranges from $50 to over $100 per square foot.
Is quartz more expensive than granite?
Quartz countertops are often more affordable than granite. Quartz averages $100-$150 installed per square foot while granite averages $150-$250 installed per square foot. However, high-end quartz can overlap with lower-cost granites.
What thickness of quartz countertop is best?
The standard quartz thickness is 3/4 inches (2 cm). This provides an ideal balance of durability, cost, and weight. If you want a thicker profile, opt for 1 1/4 inches (3 cm) or 1 1/2 inches (4 cm). Anything thicker is overkill for residential use.
Can I install quartz countertop myself?
Quartz countertop installation is best left to professionals since it involves precise cutting, seaming, and polishing. Poor DIY jobs often detract from the look and durability of quartz. If hiring a pro, get 3-4 detailed bids and verify licensing.
Is quartz maintenance free?
While quartz is very low maintenance compared to marble or granite, it still requires some periodic care. Avoid abrasive cleaners. Simply use soap and water or stone cleaner to maintain the lustrous finish. Reseal every 1-2 years.
Conclusion
With an average total installed price of $100-$200 per square foot, quartz presents a significant investment for kitchen and bath remodeling projects. Carefully weigh the cost versus benefits of different quartz materials and installation options. Seek multiple bids to find the right balance of quality, aesthetics, and affordability for your space and budget. With some savvy shopping techniques, it is possible to get premium quartz countertops in Canada installed for under $150 per square foot.