How Much For Quartz Countertop Installed?

Investing in new countertops can completely transform the look and feel of your kitchen. With so many options to choose from like granite, marble, and quartz, it can be challenging to decide which material is right for you. Quartz countertops in particular have grown enormously in popularity over the last decade. If you’re considering quartz for your next kitchen remodel, one of the biggest factors is cost. So how much does quartz countertop installation cost? Read on for a complete guide to quartz countertop pricing.

What is Quartz?

Quartz countertops, also known as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with polymer resins and pigments. The resins bind the quartz together to form a durable, non-porous surface. Here are some of the key benefits of quartz:

Extremely durable – Quartz is harder than granite and resists scratches, stains, heat, and chips.
Low maintenance – Quartz requires very little maintenance compared to natural stone.
Non-porous – Quartz does not need to be regularly sealed like granite.
Consistent pattern – The manufacturing process creates uniform coloring and patterns.
Resists bacteria – Quartz does not harbor bacteria growth.
Wide variety of styles – Quartz comes in a diverse array of colors and patterns to fit any design aesthetic.

With its durability, low maintenance, and resistance to bacteria, it’s easy to see why quartz has become such a highly sought-after countertop material.

Quartz Countertop Costs

Quartz is generally pricier than materials like laminate but less expensive than premium natural stones like marble. Here are the main factors that influence the installed price:

Quartz Slab Cost

The type of quartz material you choose will have the biggest impact on overall cost. Prices can range anywhere from $50 per square foot on the low end to over $100 per square foot for premium designer brands. Some of the factors that affect quartz slab pricing:

Brand – The brand reputation and quality determine the base price. Silestone, Caesarstone, and Cambria are leading premium brands that cost more.
Color and Pattern – Unique colors and patterns are more expensive to produce. Whites and blacks tend to be the most affordable options.
Thickness – Standard thickness is 3/4″, but thicker 1 1/4″ slabs cost more.
Supplier – Check prices from different local suppliers, as costs can vary.

Installation Cost

In addition to the countertop slabs, professional installation is required. The total installation cost typically ranges from $40 to $100 per square foot. This includes:

Template creation – Taking exact measurements of your counters.
Cutting – Precise cutting of the slabs to fit your kitchen layout.
Transportation – Getting the slabs safely to your home.
Installation – Attaching the countertops securely to your cabinets.
Seaming – Sealing seams between slabs for a seamless look.
Finishing – Final polish and detailing for a beautiful finish.

Factors like complex seaming, sink or cooktop cutouts, and accessibility can increase the installation work required and costs.

Other Costs

Depending on your project, additional costs may include:

Demolition and disposal – Removing old countertops and disposing of them safely.
Plumbing – Hooking up new sinks and faucets.
Backsplashes – Adding backsplashes of tile, glass, or other materials.
Edging – Choosing decorative edges like bullnose or ogee.

Cost To Install Quartz Countertops By Area

To budget for your new quartz countertops, here are typical installed costs for different areas of your kitchen:

Kitchen island – As the focal point, expect costs between $2,500-$5,000 depending on size.
Perimeter countertops – Estimate $100-$200 per linear foot for standard depth counters.
Backsplash – Quartz backsplashes cost $50-$100 per linear foot installed.

Other areas like bathrooms or laundry rooms will have smaller installation costs in the $500 to $2,000 range.

Factors That Affect Quartz Countertop Cost

Many variables beyond just the size of your space impact the total investment for new quartz countertops.

1. Quartz Material Type

As mentioned, premium designer quartz brands generally start at $70 per square foot, while budget options cost around $50 per square foot. The brand you choose can mean a difference of thousands of dollars for the whole project.

Cambria, Silestone, Caesarstone, and Pental are leading high-end brands with the latest styles and durable quality. Lowe’s, Home Depot, and IKEA offer more affordable options that still provide long-lasting performance.

2. Color and Pattern

Quartz comes in every color of the rainbow and realistic patterns that mimic marble, granite, and other natural stones. While neutral solids like white and gray tend to be most budget-friendly, you’ll pay a premium for unique colors and bold patterns.

Vivid blues, reds, and greens often cost upwards of $75 per square foot. Complex mottled patterns or luxury looks like Carrara marble can reach $100 per square foot installed.

3. Countertop Thickness

The standard quartz thickness is 3/4″, but some homeowners opt for 1 1/4″ or 1 1/2″ slabs for a heavier, more durable feel. The thicker the quartz, the more material is required, increasing costs $10-$15 per square foot.

Thicker quartz is recommended for floors or heavy use commercial counters. The standard 3/4″ thickness is suitable for most residential kitchens.

4. Edge Styles

You have choices when it comes to the edge detail for your counters. Decorative edges like bullnose, bevel, ogee, and eased add stylistic interest with an extra touch of polish. This does come with an upcharge though – typically an extra $5+ per linear foot over standard squared edges.

5. Backsplashes

Integrated backsplashes made of the same quartz are seamless and eye-catching. Quartz backsplashes cost $50-$100 per linear foot installed depending on height. While tiling adds cost, glass sheet or tile backsplashes can tie the whole space together beautifully.

6. Area Accessibility

For spaces that are challenging to access like second floors or basements, contractors may apply an additional charge for the extra time and work required. Simple, open layouts like kitchen islands will be quicker and easier than cramped galley kitchens.

7. Specialty Services

Any custom cutting needed for sinks, stove cooktops, or other appliances will increase project costs. Additionally, demolition and disposal of old countertops can cost $2-$4 per square foot depending on the material. Upgrading plumbing fixtures or electrical will also drive up the budget.

How Thickness Impacts Cost

Quartz thickness is measured in centimeters or inches. While thinner options around 2 cm (3/4″) are the most common, 3 cm (1 1/4″) provides a heavier feel and greater durability. Here is how thickness impacts installed pricing:

2 cm (3/4″) – Starting at $80 per square foot installed, this is the standard thickness suitable for most kitchens. It provides an excellent balance of affordability and performance.
3 cm (1 1/4″) – Approximately $100 per square foot installed, this thickness has enhanced durability and a more substantial look and feel. It’s the best choice for floors or commercial use.
5 cm (2″) – Only required for major commercial projects, this thickness costs over $140 per square foot installed. It provides maximum durability for heavy use and traffic.

For a typical kitchen, the standard 2 cm thickness offers the best return. Only opt for a thicker quartz if you specifically want the heavier look or plan to use your counters heavily.

Cost To Install Quartz Countertops Yourself

Looking to save on installation costs? With the right skills and patience, DIY quartz countertop installation is definitely achievable. Here are cost breakdowns for different DIY installation approaches:

DIY All Steps – If you handle the entire process yourself including measurement, cutting, transportation, and installation, your only upfront cost is purchasing the slabs for around $50-$100 per square foot. Factor in miscuts or damages.
DIY Install Only – Having a professional fabricator cut your slabs precisely to size allows a DIY install for $40-$60 per square foot. You need a clean foundation and experience working with quartz adhesives.
DIY Kit – Companies like DIY Kit provide quartz materials, adhesives, and instructions for DIY projects starting at $65 per square foot.

While a full DIY install is not simple, it can save thousands of dollars in labor costs. Be sure to account for the heavy tools and any specialty skills required when deciding between DIY and hiring a pro.

Maintenance Costs

One of the biggest advantages of quartz over natural stone is that it requires very little routine maintenance. Here are the basics to keep your quartz counters looking like new:

Daily – Wipe down with a soft damp cloth and mild soap as needed.
Weekly – Clean with a quartz-safe granite cleaner.
Yearly – Apply a penetrating quartz sealer for added protection.

Quartz does not need frequent sealing or polishing like natural stone. With occasional deep cleaning and resealing each year, expect minimal maintenance costs of $200-$300 annually.

Should You Hire A Countertop Installer?

Installing new quartz countertops requires precision cutting and experience with specialized adhesives. Unless you’re very skilled with construction projects, hiring a professional installer is highly recommended.

Benefits of hiring a kitchen remodeling contractor include:

Expert measurement – They’ll create precise templates of your existing counters.
Advanced cutting – Cuts are made with specialized tools to perfectly fit your kitchen.
Seamless installation – They’ll securely adhere slabs and achieve invisible seams between them.
Knowledgeable guidance – They’ll recommend the best edge styles and thicknesses to suit your home.
Warranty support – Professional installation is required to qualify for manufacturer warranties.

While DIY projects can save money, the investment in an experienced local fabricator and installer ensures your new quartz counters will have a flawless fit and finish.

New Countertop Installation Cost Breakdown

Here is an overview of what’s included in professional quartz countertop installation and typical pricing:

Template Creation – $1-$2 per square foot
Quartz Slab Material – $50-$100 per square foot
Edge Profile Cutting – $5-$10 per linear foot
Seaming & Polishing – $10-$20 per linear foot
Installation & Securing – $15-$30 per square foot
Total for Basic Install – $85-$140 per square foot

This covers the end-to-end installation process resulting in stunning new quartz countertops that will last for decades. Additional costs for demolition, sinks, or backsplashes can bring the total over $150 per square foot.

Quartz VS Granite Countertops

Granite is a premium natural stone popular for its striking appearance and prestige. However, quartz countertops have risen to rival granite as a top choice among homeowners. Here’s how they compare on important factors:

While granite offers a timeless, luxurious look, quartz is virtually maintenance free and more durable in busy kitchens. Both offer beauty and performance that makes them smart investments.

FAQ

How much does quartz cost compared to granite?

Quartz and granite cost about the same per square foot installed. Expect to pay $80-$150 per square foot for either material including professional installation. Granite requires more maintenance, while quartz is virtually maintenance free.

What is the most affordable quartz countertop?

Buying budget quartz at big box stores like IKEA and Home Depot can cost as little as $50 per square foot. Higher-end designer brands generally start around $70 per square foot. Quartz is more affordable than natural stones.

Is quartz worth the extra cost?

With incredible durability, hygiene, and minimal upkeep required, quartz delivers lasting value that makes it well worth the investment over cheaper options like laminate. The higher initial cost pays off with decades of beauty and performance.

Can you install quartz countertops yourself?

Technically yes, but the cutting and installation process involves special tools and experience working with quartz adhesives. Poor DIY installations can result in damages and problems not covered under warranties. Hiring a pro ensures your new counters are flawless.

How thick should quartz countertops be?

The standard 3/4″ (2 cm) thickness is ideal for residential kitchen counters. Only opt for a 1 1/4″ (3 cm) thickness if you want extremely heavy-duty durability for high traffic areas. Thickness does impact the final installed price.

How long do quartz countertops last?

With proper care, quartz counters last for decades. The durable non-porous material resists scratches, stains, chips, cracks, and heat damage better than natural stone. One of the biggest benefits is quartz never needs regular sealing or polishing.

The Bottom Line

Installing new quartz counters is a major investment that can completely transform the look and utility of your kitchen or bathrooms. While not the cheapest option, quartz delivers serious durability and maintenance-free ease.

For most kitchens, expect to pay $80-$150 per square foot for installed quartz countertops. Premium materials, complex patterns, edge styles, and special fabrication can increase costs. While DIY installation is possible, hiring a professional ensures your new counters are perfectly fitted and built to last a lifetime.

After weighing the pros and cons, quartz is one of the best choices for long-lasting beauty and practicality. With proper care, your new quartz countertops should provide many years of enjoyment.