Installing a quartz countertop can greatly enhance the look and functionality of your kitchen or bathroom. However, it is important to understand the costs involved before embarking on such a project. Here is a comprehensive overview of how much quartz countertop installation typically costs.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, also known as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The resulting material is non-porous, stain-resistant, and durable while having the aesthetic qualities of natural stone. Quartz requires very little maintenance compared to other countertop materials.
Factors That Affect Quartz Countertop Installation Cost
Several key factors determine the overall cost of installing quartz countertops:
Size of the Countertop Area
The total square footage of countertop needed is the primary cost driver. Total costs scale up quickly with larger countertop installations.
Type of Edges
You can choose different edge profiles like standard eased/pencil edges, beveled edges, ogee edges, or decorative edges. More complex edges cost more to fabricate and install.
Thickness of the Slabs
Quartz slabs come in thicknesses of 2 cm, 3 cm, or 4 cm. Thicker slabs tend to be more durable and retain heat better but also cost more.
Color and Pattern
Simple solid colors are the most affordable. Premium designer colors and patterns can add considerably to the price.
Professional Installation
Hiring an experienced professional to template, fabricate, and install the countertops well is recommended, albeit more expensive than DIY.
Average Cost to Install Quartz Countertops
The national average cost to install quartz countertops is $40-100 per square foot, including materials and professional installation. This breaks down to about:
- $1,200-3,000 for a small kitchen with 30 sq.ft. of countertop space
- $2,500-6,250 for a medium 50 sq.ft. kitchen
- $5,000-12,500 for a larger 80 sq.ft. kitchen remodel
Expect to pay around 15-30% more for premium quartz materials, complex edge profiles, and thicker slabs. The location, market prices, and the scope of the rest of the remodel can also impact costs.
Cost Breakdown of Quartz Countertop Installation
Here is a typical per square foot cost breakdown for a professionally installed quartz countertop:
- $40-70 per sq.ft. for the quartz slab materials
- $10-15 per sq.ft. for fabrication and cutting
- $5-10 per sq.ft. for installation labor
- $5-10 per sq.ft. for finishing and polishing edges
- $2-3 per sq.ft. for adhesives, fasteners, and other supplies
Keep in mind that many contractors offer package deals with tiered pricing for different quartz slab materials, edges, and installation options.
Factors That Can Increase Your Installation Costs
- Choosing thicker 3cm or 4cm slabs
- Opting for premium designer colors and patterns
- Having an intricate edge profile like ogee or beveled edges
- Requiring additional finishing like extra polish, mitered edges, engraving, etc.
- Needing undermount sinks to be cut out and installed
- Requiring demolition and removal of old countertops
- Needing modifications for cooktop cutouts or backsplashes
How to Get the Best Value
Here are some tips to get the most value from your quartz installation project within your budget:
- Get quotes from at least 3 contractors – pricing can vary significantly.
- Consider 2cm quartz slabs if durability is not a major concern.
- Choose a simple eased or pencil edge profile.
- Opt for a patterned quartz over premium designer solid colors.
- Install the countertops yourself if you are experienced with home remodels.
- Provide your own sink and cooktop to avoid markups on the contractor supplying it.
- Reuse your existing kitchen layout if possible to avoid high templating costs.
- Avoid any structural changes like moving plumbing or electrical.
- Purchase the quartz slabs yourself and hire a fabricator/installer.
FAQs about Installing Quartz Countertops
How long does it take to install quartz countertops?
For an average sized kitchen of about 50 sq.ft., professional installation usually takes 2 to 3 days. The templating is done first, then the fabricator cuts the slabs and finishes the edges, and the installer finally comes to adhere the countertops.
Can I install quartz countertops myself?
It is possible for an experienced DIYer to self-install quartz countertops. But the cutting, fitting, and seam placement require great precision. One mistake can ruin the entire slab. Most people prefer hiring professionals.
Does quartz need to be sealed?
No, quartz does not require sealing since it is non-porous. A simple cleaning with soap and water is all that is needed for routine maintenance. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could dull the surface.
How thick should quartz countertops be?
A 2cm slab thickness is sufficient for most residential kitchens. Go with 3cm thickness for more durability and heat resistance needed in high traffic kitchens. Commercial installations may use 4cm+ thick quartz slabs.
Is it cheaper to just buy the quartz slabs myself?
In most cases, it is actually more cost-effective to buy quartz countertop installation as a complete package from a contractor rather than purchasing the slabs yourself. Their bulk rates are hard to beat.
Conclusion
Installing new quartz countertops can run between $40-100 per square foot depending on the quality of materials and scope of the installation. Carefully measure your existing countertop space and get detailed quotes from fabricators before deciding on the right quartz upgrade within your budget. With proper planning, you can reap the benefits of stunning quartz countertops that will serve you well for decades without breaking the bank.