Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodels in recent years. With their durability, low maintenance, and customizability, it’s easy to see why homeowners are drawn to quartz. However, like most upgrades, quartz countertops come at a cost. So how much can you expect to pay for a quartz countertop? Let’s break it down.
Factors That Affect Quartz Countertop Pricing
Several key factors impact the total price of a quartz countertop installation:
Quartz Material
- The specific brand and color of quartz material chosen will affect the base price per square foot. Popular brands like Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone range from $50-$100 per square foot. Rare or premium colors and patterns can cost even more.
Edge Profiles
- The edge style impacts install time and complexity. Simple flat edges are the least expensive, while specialized edges like bullnose, ogee, and Dupont add labor and cost.
Thickness
- Standard thickness is 3/4″, but thicker 1-1/4″ or 1-1/2″ slabs are available for a more substantial look and feel. Thicker quartz costs $10-$15 more per square foot.
Installation
- Hiring a professional to template, fabricate, and install will add $40-$100 per square foot for labor. Complex job sites or special cutting requirements add cost.
Backsplash
- Adding a coordinating quartz backsplash increases total price, often by $10-$30 per linear foot.
Sink, Faucet & Accessories
- Undermount sinks, high-end faucets, and other accessories mean spending more. Expect to pay at least $500-$1000 extra for additions.
Average Price for a Quartz Countertop
Taking these factors into account, most standard quartz countertops range from $80 to $140 per square foot installed. This puts the typical price for a medium-sized kitchen makeover at around $3500 – $7000. High-end materials, upgrades, and a more complex installation can result in a total cost between $10,000 – $15,000.
Bathroom vanity tops often run $1000 – $2000 depending on size. Quartz is pricier than materials like laminate but competitively priced with other engineered stones and natural stone options.
Cost Breakdown by Quality Tier
To give a better idea of real-world costs, here is an overview of price ranges for low, medium, and high-quality quartz countertops:
Value ($50 – $70 per square foot installed)
- Builder-grade slim 3cm slabs
- Neutral colors and minimal patterns
- Flat polished edges
- Stock sinks and basic faucets
Mid-Range ($90 – $120 per square foot installed)
- Name brand 1.25cm – 1.5cm slabs
- Popular colors and designs
- Bullnose/ogee edges
- High-quality undermount sink
- Pull-down faucet
Premium ($130 – $200+ per square foot installed)
- Exotic 1.5cm slabs with maximum patterns
- Intricate edges like Dupont and waterfall
- Large-scale projects with complex install
- Premium integrated sinks
- Commercial-grade faucet
Factors That Increase Quartz Countertop Costs
If going for a high-end quartz installation, expect to pay more for:
- Thicker slabs (1.25″-1.5″)
- Rare colors like blues and blacks
- Complex patterns and finishes
- Intricate edges like ogee and Dupont
- Larger surface areas over 50 sqft
- Integral sinks and cooktops
- Kitchen islands
- Backsplashes and accent walls
- Commercial or outdoor use
- Rush fabrication and install
Tips for Budgeting for Quartz Countertops
There are a few ways to get the beautiful quartz look while controlling costs:
- Select a neutral, non-trendy color and finish – this usually costs less
- Choose a simple flat edge profile to reduce install complexity
- Reuse existing sinks and faucets if in good shape
- Install a partial backsplash rather than full-height
- Get quotes from 3-4 different vendors and compare carefully
- Provide accurate measurements and description of job complexity
- Inspect material carefully before install to prevent costly changes later
While quartz is an investment, proper planning and smart design choices can yield gorgeous results that add real value without breaking the bank!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most affordable quartz brand?
Caesarstone and Silestone tend to have some lower cost options. IKEA also sells more budget-friendly quartz.
How much does basic white quartz cost?
A simple flat edged 3cm white quartz starts around $70 per square foot installed. This can go up with thicker material and more complex jobs.
What edge profile is cheapest?
A standard flat polish edge adds minimal cost during fabrication and installation. Bullnose and beveled edges require more craftsmanship and time.
Can quartz be installed DIY?
Quartz requires precise cutting and seamless installation, so DIY is not advisable. Hiring a pro ensures proper handling and finishing.
Is quartz more expensive than granite?
On average, quartz runs $10-20 more per square foot than granite. But granite requires yearly sealing, so long term costs can be comparable.
Conclusion
While not the cheapest option, quartz offers unparalleled durability and maintenance ease compared to natural stone and laminate. With smart design choices and accurate project scoping, quartz can fit into diverse budgets and bring beautiful, hassle-free function to kitchens and baths for years to come.