Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom renovations in recent years. With their durability, low maintenance, and wide variety of colors and patterns, it’s easy to see why homeowners are drawn to quartz. However, like most home improvement projects, the cost of installing quartz countertops can vary widely depending on the factors below. Understanding what impacts the overall price will help homeowners budget and set realistic expectations when planning a quartz countertop installation.
Quartz Countertop Cost Per Square Foot
The biggest factor in determining quartz countertop costs is the per square foot price of the slabs. On average, expect to pay:
- Low end: $40-$60 per square foot
- Mid-range: $60-$80 per square foot
- High end: $80-$120+ per square foot
The wide range in quartz slab prices depends on the brand, pattern, thickness, and retailer. Basic solids and subtle patterns are generally the most affordable options, while dramatic designs, bold veining, or special finishes will be pricier. Thicker slabs also cost more due to requiring more raw quartz. Big box home improvement stores offer lower prices, while specialty kitchen and bath showrooms charge premium rates.
Some examples of popular national quartz brands and their average per square foot slab prices:
- Caesarstone: $60-$100 per square foot
- Silestone: $55-$90 per square foot
- Cambria: $70-$130 per square foot
- LG Viatera: $80-$120+ per square foot
Pro Tip: Look for quartz remnants or smaller slab sizes to save on costs. Since full slabs are roughly 30 square feet, opting for a remnant around 15 square feet can mean paying 50% less.
Factors That Impact Overall Quartz Countertop Cost
While the material itself is the biggest cost, several other factors impact your total quartz countertop installation price.
Installation
You’ll need to account for labor costs for installation. Rates vary across the country, but generally fall between $40-$100 per hour. The total time required depends on the scope of your project. A basic kitchen countertop install usually takes two workers 1-3 days.
Edge Profiles
The edges of your countertop also affect costs. Simple eased or pencil round edges are the most affordable, while specialty profiles like ogee, dupont, or bevel raise costs due to requiring extra steps. Built-up edges, where the countertop overhangs the cabinet by an inch or so for a floating look, also boosts labor time and expense.
Backsplashes
Integrated backsplashes with matching quartz increase the square footage needing to be purchased. Plus, installing backsplashes adds more time to the project. If trying to save money, opt for a DIY backsplash instead.
Additional Cut-Outs
Extra sink, faucet, and cooktop cut-outs aside from the main kitchen sink and stove raise installation work needed. Each cut-out must be precisely measured and cut, adding hours of labor.
Demolition
If you’re replacing existing countertops and backsplashes, include demo costs. Professionals charge $150-$300 for countertop tear out projects.
Location
Accessibility impacts total costs. Quartz counters for kitchen islands or bathroom vanities will be cheaper than full kitchen installs. Difficult to reach areas like upper floor condos or properties with narrow doorways and stairs also increase pricing.
Area Labor Costs
Like other home renovation services, installation rates for quartz counters vary across the country. Urban areas like San Francisco and New York City will be most expensive. Remote rural locations will be cheapest.
Sales Tax
Remember to factor in your local sales tax rate when budgeting for materials. The slabs themselves are taxable.
Cost to Install Quartz Countertops by Type
To budget accurately, consider where in your home you’re installing quartz and the approximate size of the project. Here are some typical price ranges:
Kitchen Countertops
For a basic 30 square foot straight-shaped kitchen countertop installation, expect to pay $2,500-$4,500. That breaks down to:
- Materials: $1,200-$3,600 (based on $40-$120 per sq ft)
- Basic Installation: $800-$1,500
- Total: $2,000-$5,100
With added expenses like backsplashes, edge treatments, demolition costs, and cutouts, a higher-end kitchen could run $5,000-$7,500 or more.
Bathroom Vanity Countertops
A standard 25′′ x 22′′ bathroom vanity needs about 6 square feet of quartz. At a mid-range $70 per square foot, you would pay $420 for materials. With 4 hours of installation time at $65/hour, expect a total cost around $660 for a basic bathroom vanity quartz countertop.
Kitchen Island
For a small kitchen island around 40′′ x 60′′, you’ll need 15 square feet of quartz. At $70 per square foot, that’s $1,050 in materials. With 6-8 hours of installation time, total costs for a kitchen island with quartz is approximately $1,600-$1,800.
Backsplashes
Installed quartz backsplashes cost on average $50-$100 per linear foot. On a 10 foot kitchen backsplash, that equates to $500-$1000 added to the total project price.
Cost Saving Tips for Quartz Countertops
There are a few ways to get the look of quartz counters while sticking to a budget:
- Install quartz on the most used areas like behind the kitchen sink and cooktop only, then use laminate or tile for other sections
- Select a basic solid white or light quartz pattern for the most affordable material price per square foot
- Shop for smaller remnant slabs instead of full 30 square foot pieces
- Install the countertop yourself and only hire a pro for the tricky parts like cutouts
- Choose an eased edge instead of decorative ogee or bevel profiles
- Opt for no backsplash or install a DIY tile backsplash separately
- Avoid additional cut-outs for a streamlined installation
- Instantly refresh old countertops with a quartz countertop overlay starting at just $50 per square foot installed
Quartz Countertops vs. Alternatives: Cost Comparison
Quartz counters are pricier than laminate but compete with many other materials on cost. Here’s how they compare:
- Quartz vs. Granite: Quartz costs about the same as mid-range granite. The biggest difference is granite requires yearly sealing while quartz does not.
- Quartz vs. Marble: Quartz is less expensive. Natural marble is pricier and stains easily without diligent sealing.
- Quartz vs. Soapstone: Soapstone is comparable to higher-end quartz pricing. It’s a softer stone though and needs mineral oil sealing.
- Quartz vs. Concrete: Poured concrete is generally 30%+ cheaper for cost-conscious buyers. But it requires heavy sealing.
- Quartz vs. Laminate: Laminate only costs $20-$40 per square foot installed making it the budget option. But laminate lacks natural stone appearance.
- Quartz vs. Stainless Steel: Stainless has a higher starting price around $70 per square foot but offers a glossy modern look.
- Quartz vs. Butcher Block: Wood counters cost about 35% less than quartz. But they scratch easily and require re-oiling.
- Quartz vs. Tile: Porcelain or ceramic tile costs 20-50% less than quartz. Tile requires intensive sealing and grout maintenance though.
For best value, quartz counters strike the perfect balance of affordable pricing combined with low maintenance needs. The durability and longevity also make it a smart long-term investment for busy kitchens.
Maintaining Quartz Countertops
One of the biggest perks of quartz counters is that they stay looking like new for years with virtually no maintenance required. Here are a few easy care tips:
- Use a gentle non-abrasive soap and water to clean. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Blot spills immediately to prevent staining. Quartz resists stains but is not 100% impervious.
- For sanitizing, use a diluted bleach cleaner and rinse thoroughly after.
- Reseal seams and caulking every 2-3 years as needed.
- Avoid exposing to excessive heat. Always use trivets and hot pads.
- Prevent dulling with annual application of a stone polish like GranQuartz Polishing Cream.
With just simple cleaning habits and awareness of its few limitations, quartz offers virtually zero-maintenance functionality perfect for busy kitchens.
Quartz Countertop Installation Process
Installing quartz countertops requires precision tools and product knowledge, making this a project best left to the professionals. Below is an overview of the process:
Step 1: Template & Measure
The installer will come take exact measurements and create a template to ensure the slabs are cut to fit your counters precisely.
Step 2: Fabrication & Cutouts
The measurements are used to fabricate the slabs offsite. They’ll cut the quartz into shape and create all needed cutouts for sinks and cooktops.
Step 3: Installation
The fabricated pieces are delivered and installed over your cabinetry securing them tightly into place. They’ll connect seams for a seamless appearance.
Step 4: Backsplash
If you opted for an integrated backsplash, the matching quartz pieces are precisely cut and adhered to the wall.
Step 5: Finish Details
The installer finishes off the job by cleaning up the counters and caulking all seams for a watertight surface.
Find the Best Quartz Countertop Installers Near You
Shop around and compare 3-5 estimates before hiring a quartz installer. Be sure to verify:
- They are licensed, bonded, and insured.
- They have extensive experience specifically with quartz installs.
- They will handle securing the material and provide a total turnkey estimate.
- They offer a workmanship warranty. Multiple years of coverage is ideal for peace of mind.
Read reviews and ask for referrals to view past quartz installation projects. And remember the lowest bid doesn’t necessarily mean best value if the workmanship is subpar. Investing in an experienced local quartz pro is worth the cost for beautiful results you’ll enjoy for decades.
FAQs about Quartz Countertop Costs
Here are answers to some of the most common questions homeowners have about the cost of quartz counters:
Does thickness affect quartz countertop price?
Yes, thicker slabs that are 2 centimeters (CM) or 3 CM cost 20%-30% more than a standard 1.2 CM thickness. Thicker quartz provides more durability and visual mass. But for residential settings, 1.2 CM often suffices.
Is installation of quartz countertops included in the price?
Some quartz manufacturers and retailers include professional installation in the total quote. But usually the slab materials and labor for installation are quoted separately. Be sure to verify what exactly is covered in any all-inclusive estimate.
Is quartz more expensive than granite?
On average, mid-range quartz and mid-range granite cost about the same – between $60-$80 per square foot installed. Luxury high-end granite can get pricier than premium quartz. And low-end granite is a bit cheaper than budget quartz options.
Can you get quartz countertops for cheaper by doing install yourself?
You can save about 50% on installation costs by doing a DIY quartz install. But keep in mind this is precarious work. If the slabs crack or chip during the process, you’ll have to pay to replace them.
Should I expect to pay more for quartz patterns with lots of veins or bold designs?
Yes, dramatic vein patterns, bold colors like blacks and blues, and unique designs will increase the per square foot slab costs. Subtle white/cream solids and fine speckled finishes are most affordable.
How much overhang should I allow for with a quartz countertop installation?
An overhang of 1/4″ to 1/2″ beyond the edge of the cabinetry frame is typical. Anything wider than 1″ is generally not recommended without added support due to risk of the quartz cracking over time.
Conclusion
Installing quartz countertops can instantly elevate the style and functionality of your kitchen or bathrooms. With the wide range of colors, patterns, and textures available, it’s easy to find a look you’ll love while staying within your budget. Use the typical per square foot costs outlined here for the most accurate estimates when planning your next quartz countertop installation project.