Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodels due to their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance. When budgeting for quartz countertops, one of the key factors is understanding how much quartz costs per square foot. Here is a detailed overview of what impacts the price per square foot of quartz countertops and what range of pricing you can expect.
What Impacts the Cost of Quartz Countertops?
Several variables affect the installed price per square foot of quartz countertops. Key factors include:
Quartz Slab Quality and Brand
Quartz is made from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. Higher quality quartz slabs made by premium brands like Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone range from $50-100 per square foot. Lower priced quartz from IKEA and local suppliers can cost as little as $35 per square foot. The quality and brand of the slab are a major determiner of overall cost.
Color and Pattern
Simple solid quartz colors tend to be the most affordable options starting around $45 per square foot installed. More complex quartz patterns and colors with flecks and veins can range from $55-75 per square foot. Unique colors and designer styles can cost $100+ per square foot.
Thickness
Standard thickness for quartz countertops is 3/4″. Thicker 1 1/4″ or 1 1/2″ slabs are premium options, as are thinner 1/2″ slabs sometimes used for backsplashes. The thicker the quartz material, the higher the overall cost per square foot.
Edge Profiles
Straight polished edges are standard, but specialty edges like bullnose, ogee, and eased can add $10-20 more per linear foot. Intricate edge treatments like full bullnose can approach $30 per linear foot.
Fabrication and Installation
Expert fabrication to cut and polish your slabs, along with professional installation, typically adds $40-70 per square foot on top of material costs. Simple edge profiles and straight seamless runs may be at the lower end while complex shapes or tile patterns cost more.
Local Market Conditions
Pricing can vary by your geographic area. Factors like labor, real estate, and transportation can influence costs in your local market. Urban areas also tend to have higher prices than suburban or rural areas.
What Is the Typical Price Range for Quartz Countertops?
With all the above factors considered, quartz countertops installed typically range*:
- Low end: $45 – $65 per square foot
- Mid-range: $70 – $100 per square foot
- High end: $110 – $150+ per square foot
(*individual market prices may vary)
For a typical 25 square foot kitchen countertop, a mid-range price of $75 per square foot would mean a total cost of approximately $1,875.
Cost Saving Tips
If your budget is tight, here are some tips to reduce the price per square foot of your quartz countertops:
- Go with a Simple Solid White or Gray color instead of fancy patterns
- Select the Standard 3/4” thickness instead of thicker options
- Choose a Simple Straight edge profile like polished or eased instead of bullnose
- Reuse wall edges and backsplash from existing countertop install if possible
- Shop for Remnant Pieces for harder to match small spaces
- Compare Multiple Local Fabricators and go with Most Reasonable Quote
With some savvy choices, you can reduce the installed price per square foot by $20-30 and still end up with beautiful quartz countertops. Be sure to get 3-5 quotes before making your decision.
Is Quartz Worth the Investment?
Quartz countertops are a major investment, but most homeowners find them well worth the cost due to their stellar performance and maintenance-free nature. The durability and stain resistance of quartz outpaces many other countertop materials. With just simple cleaning, quartz countertops will provide beautiful service for many years to come. Going with quartz greatly reduces the need for resealing or protective treatments required by other surfaces. For those wanting a stylish, fuss-free kitchen or bath, investing in quartz countertops is highly recommended despite the higher initial price tag. With proper care, your quartz countertops should last decades with minimal signs of wear.
Factors That Affect Cost Per Square Foot of Quartz Countertops
When budgeting for new quartz countertops, it helps to be aware of the different factors that can raise or lower the price per square foot:
- Quartz brand – Premium brands cost more than value brands
- Color and pattern – Unique designs cost more than solid colors
- Thickness – Thicker slabs (1 1/4″) are pricier than standard 3/4″
- Edge profile – Bullnose, ogee, and special edges add cost
- Fabrication – Complex patterning and installation is more labor-intensive
- Local prices – Costs vary by geographic area due to labor, real estate, etc
Being flexible on these factors can help lower your total price if needed.
What’s the Average Cost of Quartz Countertops?
The typical range for installed quartz countertops is:
- Low end – $45-$65 per sq ft
- Mid-range – $70-$100 per sq ft
- High end – $110-$150+ per sq ft
The mid-range price of about $75 per square foot means a 25 sq ft kitchen quartz countertop would be around $1,875 installed.
Tips for Reducing Your Quartz Countertop Costs
To save on your quartz countertop budget, consider these money-saving tips:
- Choose a solid white or gray color instead of a patterned design
- Go with the standard 3/4” thickness over thicker options
- Select a simple polished or eased edge instead of an intricate profile
- Reuse existing wall edges/backsplash if possible in your install
- Look for remnant pieces for a deal on smaller spaces
- Get quotes from 3-5 local fabricators and go with the best value
Are Quartz Countertops Worth the Price?
While expensive compared to materials like laminate, quartz delivers key benefits that make the investment worthwhile for most homeowners:
Durability – Quartz is highly scratch, chip, and stain resistant. It holds up beautifully under heavy usage.
Low maintenance – Unlike natural stone, quartz requires very little ongoing sealing or polishing.
Stylish colors – Quartz comes in beautiful patterns unavailable in natural stone.
Resale value – Upscale quartz countertops add value when selling your home.
With proper care, quartz countertops will maintain their good looks for decades, outperforming laminate, tile, and wood. For home chefs and busy families wanting fuss-free counters that stay looking pristine, quartz is a top choice despite the higher initial price tag. The long-term enjoyment and hassle-free nature make quartz a sound investment for most buyers.
FAQ About Quartz Countertop Pricing
How much does mid-range quartz cost installed per square foot?
A mid-range quartz countertop typically costs $70 – $100 installed per square foot. This encompasses stone from reputable brands like Caesarstone and Cambria, 3/4″ thickness, and simple edge profiles.
What’s the total cost for a typical kitchen island?
For a typical 40″ x 60″ kitchen island needing 25 square feet of countertop, mid-range quartz installed would cost around $1,875 (25 sq ft x $75 per sq ft). Island price can vary based on size, thickness, and edge treatments.
Is it cheaper to install quartz yourself rather than hire a fabricator?
In most cases, professional fabrication and installation yields better results for about the same cost as DIY quartz installation. The experience and tools of pros make it worthwhile for most homeowners to hire out this job.
Can I find quartz remnants for a cheaper price?
Yes, shopping for quartz remnants is a great way to save dramatically on small countertop spaces. Due to irregular sizes and odd cuts, remnant pieces often sell for 50% less than full slabs. Be ready to be flexible on color choices.
Should I buy quartz slabs directly rather than through a fabricator?
Purchasing through a qualified local fabricator is best. They supply the slabs, fabrication, and installation with one warranty. Buying slabs yourself requires handling logistics and finding a separate installer.
Conclusion
When budgeting for new quartz countertops, expect to invest $50 – $150 per square foot depending on the quality, pattern, thickness, edges, and more. Mid-range quartz delivers the best value at $70 – $100 per square foot installed. While not the cheapest option, quartz stands out for its remarkable durability, stain resistance, and hassle-free maintenance – making the higher price tag worthwhile for many homeowners. With smart choices and shopping around, you can find beautiful quartz countertops to fit your budget and enjoy for years to come.