Quartz countertops have become increasingly popular in Canadian homes due to their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance. However, many homeowners wonder how much do quartz countertops cost to install in Canada? The price of quartz countertops can vary significantly based on the brand, thickness, edge profiles, size and complexity of the installation. Here is a detailed overview of the factors that impact quartz countertop costs in Canada.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, also known as engineered stone countertops, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with polyresin binders under high pressure. The result is a non-porous, durable and resilient material that resembles natural stone but requires very little maintenance.
Quartz comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns to suit any design aesthetic. Popular quartz brands in Canada include Caesarstone, Silestone, Cambria, Cosentino and Viatera.
Factors That Impact Quartz Countertop Costs
Quartz Brand
The brand of quartz makes a significant impact on overall cost. Higher-end designer brands like Caesarstone and Silestone range from $70 – $120 per square foot installed. Middle-range options like Cambria and Cosentino cost $50 – $70 per square foot. Basic quartz brands start around $40 per square foot installed.
Thickness
Standard quartz thickness is 3/4″ (2cm). Choosing a thicker material of 1 1/4″ (3cm) or 1 1/2″ (4cm) increases cost but provides more durability and visual mass. Thicker quartz can increase cost by $10-$15 per square foot.
Edge Profiles
Edge profiles like bullnose, ogee, eased or dupont add complexity to the fabrication and installation. On average, edge profiles add $8-$12 per linear foot to the total price.
Size of Installation
The total size of the quartz countertop installation impacts overall costs. Larger installations benefit from economies of scale and tend to cost less per square foot compared to small installations under 30 square feet.
Complexity of Job
Simple countertop layouts with few seams, cutouts or edges cost less than complex designs. Complex jobs with intricate tile patterns, multiple seams, backsplashes and decorative edges can increase the installation cost.
Location of Job
Labor and material costs vary across different regions of Canada. Major metro areas like Toronto and Vancouver tend to have higher quartz countertop costs than smaller towns and rural areas.
What is the Average Cost of Quartz Countertops in Canada?
The average cost to install quartz countertops in Canadian homes ranges from $40-$120 per square foot, including materials and professional installation.
Total costs typically range:
- Basic Quartz: $40 – $70 per square foot
- Mid-Range Quartz: $50 – $80 per square foot
- Premium Quartz: $70 – $120 per square foot
So for a relatively straightforward 30 square foot quartz countertop installation in a Canadian suburb using a mid-range product, total costs would be approximately $1,500 to $2,400.
Higher-end quartz, more complex installations, and urban locations can easily exceed $100 per square foot installed.
Cost Breakdown: Materials vs Installation
On average, the material cost makes up about 70% of the total project price for quartz countertops. Installation and fabrication account for about 30% of the total cost.
For example:
- Total Cost: $2,500
- Materials: $1,750 (70%)
- Installation: $750 (30%)
Some homeowners choose to purchase quartz slabs directly from distributors to save on material costs, but professional fabrication and installation is still required.
Factors That Increase Quartz Countertop Costs
Several factors can increase the price of your quartz countertop installation:
- Thicker Material: Upgrading to 1 1/4″ or 1 1/2″ thickness
- Premium Brands: Caesarstone, Silestone, Cambria, Viatera
- More Edge Profiles: Ogee, bullnose, dupont, eased, etc.
- Backsplashes: Adding a quartz backsplash
- Complex Layouts: Multiple seams, intricate patterns, many cutouts
- Waterfall Edges: Extended countertop edges
- Precision Cuts: Mitered edges and intricate inlays
- Backlighting: Adding LED lighting underneath
Factors That Decrease Quartz Countertop Costs
You may be able to reduce quartz countertop costs by:
- Choosing a lower-priced quartz brand
- Keeping a standard 3/4″ thickness
- Opting for a basic edge profile like flat-polished
- Using large quartz slabs to minimize seams
- Choosing a simple layout with few cutouts or edges
- Purchasing materials directly from a distributor
Quartz vs Granite vs Marble Countertops
Quartz countertops are an investment, but often more affordable than natural stone options:
- Quartz: $40 – $120 per sq. ft. installed
- Granite: $60 – $135 per sq. ft. installed
- Marble: $65 – $115 per sq. ft. installed
Quartz requires very little maintenance compared to granite or marble. Quartz also comes in more color options than natural stones.
How to Get the Best Price on Quartz Countertops
Here are some tips to get the lowest price on quartz countertops in Canada:
- Shop around and get quotes from 3-5 fabricators.
- Consider lower-priced quartz options like Versastone and Vicostone.
- Purchase materials directly from a distributor.
- Choose a simple style with few seams or cutouts.
- Opt for a straight polished edge profile.
- Reuse existing cabinets and layout if possible.
- Avoid any structural changes that require plumbing or electrical work.
- Install quartz on smaller surfaces like bathroom vanities first to test product.
- Time the installation in the fabricator’s slower season (late fall or winter).
FAQ About Quartz Countertop Costs in Canada
How Much Does Quartz Countertops Cost Per Square Foot in Canada?
On average, mid-range quartz countertops cost $50-$80 per square foot installed in Canadian homes. The price can range from $40 per square foot on the low end, up to $120 per square foot for premium designer quartz brands.
What is the Most Affordable Quartz Countertop Brand in Canada?
The most affordable quartz brands in Canada include Versastone, Vicostone, Caesarstone Motivo, Silestone Lyra, Cambria Bellingham and Cosentino Décor. These options start around $40-$55 per square foot installed.
Is Quartz Cheaper Than Granite in Canada?
Yes, quartz countertops tend to be 20-30% cheaper than granite. Quartz starts at around $40 per square foot installed, compared to $60+ per square foot for granite. Granite requires more maintenance and can have higher installation costs than quartz.
Should I Buy Quartz Countertops Direct or Through a Fabricator?
It’s best to work with a professional fabricator to measure, template, cut, polish and install your new quartz countertop. While you can save on materials costs by purchasing the slabs directly, you still need an experienced fabricator for manufacturing and installation. Most fabricators can provide better warranty support as well.
Can I Install Quartz Countertops Myself?
Quartz countertop installation requires special tools and experience working with engineered stone. DIY installation is not recommended. Leave it to the professionals to ensure a quality installation and preserve the warranty on your new quartz counters.
Conclusion
Quartz delivers the look of natural stone with less maintenance. On average, expect to invest $50 to $80 per square foot for installed quartz countertops in Canada. Prices start around $40/sq.ft. for basic options and range up to $120/sq.ft. for premium designer quartz.
Carefully measure your space, choose an affordable quartz style and get 3-5 professional quotes to find the best value on your new quartz countertops. With some smart planning, you can get beautiful and durable quartz counters that enhance your home for years to come.