Installing a quartz countertop can significantly upgrade the look and feel of your kitchen or bathroom. With its durability, easy maintenance, and customizability, quartz has become an incredibly popular choice for countertops. But how much does quartz countertop installation cost? Here is a detailed overview of what impacts the price and how much you can expect to pay.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, also known as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with polymer resins and pigments. The result is a man-made material that is highly durable, stain and scratch resistant, and easy to maintain.
Unlike natural stone counters like granite or marble, quartz does not need to be regularly sealed. And because quartz is non-porous, it does not harbor bacteria or require special cleaners. This makes quartz an ideal choice for kitchens and baths.
Quartz Countertop Cost Factors
Several key factors impact the total installed price of quartz counters:
- Quartz slab cost – The type of quartz material chosen will affect cost. Premium brand names like Caesarstone and Cambria cost $65-$125 per square foot. Less expensive slabs run $35-$65 per square foot.
- Edge styles – Basic square edges are the most affordable. Decorative edges like bevels or ogees add $10-$15 per linear foot.
- Thickness – Standard thickness is 3/4″. Going up to 2 cm thick costs $10-$15 more per square foot.
- Fabrication – This includes cutting, shaping, and polishing. Expect to pay $50-$100 per linear foot.
- Installation – Charges range from $3-$8 per square foot depending on complexity.
- Countertop layout – The total size and number of seams will impact cost. Long spans, corners, and L-shaped layouts add to price.
Average Quartz Countertop Costs
Taking all these factors into account, here are typical price ranges:
- Overall – For material, fabrication, and installation expect to pay $80-$150 per square foot.
- Kitchen counters – With an average of 40 SF of countertop, prices range $3,200-$6,000.
- Bathroom vanities – Smaller in size (25 SF), bath counters run $2,000-$3,750.
- Islands – Due to the need for seaming, expect to pay 10-15% more for islands.
- Backsplash – Adding a 4″ backsplash adds $10-$15 per linear foot.
Factors That Increase Quartz Countertop Cost
Certain selections and situations will increase the total price:
- Premium quartz materials from luxury brands
- Thicker slabs (2 cm vs 3/4″)
- Intricate edge profiles like waterfall edges
- Intensive fabrication with special cutouts
- Tile or glass backsplashes
- Appliance cutouts and undermount sinks
- Extra seams for larger layouts
- Rush orders requiring quicker fabrication
- Areas with higher labor costs
How Thickness Impacts Quartz Price
One factor that raises cost is going with a thicker 2 cm (3/4″) slab instead of the standard 3/4″ (1 1/2 cm). Here is how thickness impacts pricing:
- 3/4″ slabs – This is the standard thickness. It costs $70-$120 per square foot installed.
- 2 cm slabs – This thicker option costs 10-15% more at $85-$135 per square foot installed.
The added thickness provides some benefits. Thicker slabs are less prone to cracks or damage. They can withstand heavier impacts. And some people prefer the look and feel of a thicker counter.
However, 3/4″ quartz provides durability for most homes. And it keeps costs 10-15% lower than 2 cm.
How to Get the Best Price
To get the best deal on your quartz counters, consider these tips:
- Shop around and get 3-4 quotes from different fabricators
- Go with a mid-range quartz material rather than premium
- Choose standard edges and 3/4″ thickness
- Look for deals through fabricators like remnant sales
- Provide your own sink and avoid cutouts if possible
- Keep the layout simple without too many seams
- Have counters installed during a fabricator’s slow season
Quartz Countertops: An Investment That Pays Off
While not the cheapest option, installed quartz counters give you tremendous value and pay off in the long run. With little maintenance needed and extreme durability, quartz countertops will stay looking beautiful year after year with just basic cleaning. And the customized colors and designs available mean you get the high-end look you want.
Investing in quartz countertops can also boost home value. Upscale kitchens with quartz counters often recoup over 70% of the project cost at resale.
So while saving on the initial price is wise, don’t sacrifice quality. With so many options, you can find affordable quartz counters that stand up to daily use, add value, and still fit your budget.
FAQs About Installing Quartz Countertops
How long does it take to install quartz?
Most countertop installations take 1-3 days. Pre-fab fabricators make cuts before delivery. Then the installation team needs just 1 day for securing counters to cabinets. Complex jobs with extra cutting may take 2-3 days.
Can I install quartz myself?
While DIY quartz counter installation is possible, it’s difficult for non-pros. You’ll need to rent tools, precisely measure, cut sink holes, polish seams, and handle heavy slabs. Hiring a pro ensures proper seam alignment and security on cabinets.
Does quartz need to be sealed?
No. Because quartz is non-porous, it never needs sealing. Annual sealing is recommended for granite, marble, and other natural stone. But quartz resists stains and damage without regular sealing.
Is quartz stronger than granite?
Quartz is harder than granite on the Mohs mineral hardness scale. The resin binders make quartz more flexible and resistant to cracks from impact. But granite remains very durable for counters when properly sealed and cared for.
Is quartz cheaper than granite?
On average, quartz costs a similar amount to granite for material and installation. Mid-range granite and quartz both run $70-$120 per square foot installed. More expensive, premium granite can be higher priced than luxury quartz options.
Conclusion
Installing new quartz countertops provides beauty, durability, and easy maintenance. While not the cheapest option, quartz offers value. Total costs range $80-$150 per square foot depending on the materials, edges, thickness, fabrication, and installation factors involved. With careful shopping and budget-friendly choices, quartz can fit many home improvement budgets. In the end, investing in quality quartz surfaces pays dividends for years down the road.