Cambria quartz countertops are made from quartz and resin, making them an extremely durable and low-maintenance option for kitchen and bathroom surfaces. But with their sleek appearance and variety of color options, they do come at a higher price point than some other countertop materials. Here is an overview of what to expect when budgeting for Cambria quartz countertops.
What is Cambria Quartz?
Cambria is a leading brand of engineered quartz countertops. Engineered quartz countertops contain about 90% ground natural quartz aggregate mixed with approximately 10% polymer resins and pigments.
The quartz provides strength, durability, and a non-porous surface, while the resins bind it all together into a slab. The pigments introduce a wide range of colors and patterns. Brands like Cambria utilize state-of-the-art BretonstoneTM technology to create their signature quartz slabs.
The end result is a material that has the look of natural stone but exceeds its performance. Cambria quartz resists stains, scratches, heat, and water. It does not need to be regularly sealed like granite or marble. Cambria offers a lifetime limited warranty to attest to the long-lasting quality of their quartz.
Cost Factors for Cambria Quartz
There are several variables that determine the price of Cambria quartz countertops for your project:
- Stone variety – Cambria has over 140 different quartz designs, ranging from solid colors to bold patterns. Popular options like Brittanicca, Annicca, and Summerhill generally cost more than plainer varieties. Unique specialty styles can be premium-priced.
- Edge profile – The edge style impacts material and installation labor. Built-up edges like ogee and bevel add complexity versus straight eased or pencil-round edges. Decorative edges run $10-$15 per linear foot more.
- Thickness – Standard thickness is 3 cm (1.2″). Going thicker to 4 cm (1.5″) increases cost by about 40% but provides extra durability and weight.
- Installation – Hiring an experienced professional fabricator and installer is recommended, adding labor fees of $40-$100 per hour. Complex projects with cutouts can take more time.
- Area – Total surface square footage is a primary cost driver. Larger jobs mean purchasing more slabs and materials. Expect to pay for a minimum of 25 square feet.
- Modifications – Adding special features like backsplashes, trim, curves, cutouts, and built-in accessories adds to fabrication time and materials expense.
What’s the Total Price Range?
The total price to install Cambria quartz countertops generally ranges between $70 – $140 per square foot. This encompasses the cost of the quartz slabs, fabrication, delivery, and professional installation.
The many variables above mean you could pay on the lower or higher end of that range:
- Economical installs – A basic 25 sq.ft. application in a neutral Cambria style with straight edges and standard thickness can start around $2,000 ($80/sq.ft).
- High-end installs – An intricate 75 sq.ft. design using premium Cambria slabs with thick edges and cutouts could exceed $12,000 ($160/sq.ft).
Cost Saving Tips
While Cambria quartz is an investment, there are some ways to work within your budget:
- Select a simpler Cambria style and edge profile to limit costs.
- Use standard 3cm thickness unless you specifically need the durability of 4cm.
- Do the tear out of old countertops yourself to save on labor fees.
- Install smaller surface areas like islands first, then add more later as budget allows.
- Have slabs cut and ready for install to minimize fabrication time.
- Avoid intricate patterns and designs in quartz near cooktops to limit cuts.
- Install a high-quality laminate like Cambria’s Brittanicca on non-functional areas to save.
Is Cambria Worth the Investment?
Cambria quartz countertops undeniably come at a premium cost. However, for many homeowners the durable low-maintenance performance and beautiful appearance make it worthwhile. Investing in Cambria quartz can add value and enjoyment to your home for many years.
Proper installation also helps Cambria quartz hold up well over time. Be sure to hire experienced professionals and care for your countertops per Cambria’s recommendations. With a lifetime limited warranty, your Cambria surfaces will stay looking like new for decades to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Cambria quartz more expensive than other countertop options?
Cambria quartz is priced higher than materials like granite, marble, and laminate due to the state-of-the-art manufacturing used to create its signature quartz slabs. The quality, durability, and aesthetic versatility add cost as well.
Is Cambria the most expensive quartz brand?
Cambria is in the mid-high range for engineered quartz. It is comparable to top brands like Caesarstone and Silestone. Higher-priced super-premium quartz brands include Compac, Viatera, and Hanwha.
What is the most affordable Cambria quartz style?
Cambria’s neutral solids like Whitehall and Weybourne are the least expensive styles starting under $70 per square foot installed. Refined and nuanced marbles like Mariana and Kirra are among the higher-priced Cambria quartz styles.
Can you install Cambria quartz yourself?
Cambria does not recommend DIY installation as improper techniques can void the warranty. Use a professional fabricator familiar with engineered quartz. However, you can save on demo and prepping the countertop base yourself.
Does Cambria go on sale?
Cambria rarely offers sales on their quartz. As a premium brand, pricing stays consistent. Occasional small discounts may be offered through specific suppliers. Bundle pricing on Cambria quartz plus other surfaces may also save costs.
Conclusion
Cambria’s beautiful, durable quartz countertops come at a premium cost ranging from $70-$140 per square foot installed. Exact pricing depends on the specific Cambria color and style chosen, edge profiles, thickness, installation factors, and total area. While a significant investment, Cambria quartz can elevate your home for years when properly installed by professionals. Selecting more affordable Cambria options and budget-friendly installation approaches can help keep quartz countertop costs lower. With reasonable expectations of cost and proper care, Cambria quartz makes an excellent countertop choice.