Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodels in recent years. But with their sleek, modern aesthetic and reputation for durability, many homeowners wonder – how much is quartz countertop?

What is Quartz Countertop?

Before diving into quartz countertop costs, it’s helpful to understand exactly what quartz countertops are. Quartz countertops are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with polyresin binders. This combination results in a durable, non-porous surface that is resistant to scratches, stains, and heat.

Unlike natural stone countertops like granite or marble, quartz countertops are engineered in a factory. This allows manufacturers to have precise control over the color patterns and veining in the material. It also means that quartz lacks the maintenance issues and inconsistencies that can occur with natural stone.

Here are some key features and benefits of quartz countertops:

Durable – Quartz is incredibly hard and resistant to scratches, chips, and cracks.
Low Maintenance – Requiring little more than soap and water for cleaning.
Non-Porous – Does not need to be sealed and resists stains.
Heat Resistant – Can withstand heat up to 212°F.
UV Stable – Color will not fade or yellow from sun exposure.
Available in wide range of colors and patterns.
Some varieties have a luxurious, natural stone look.

With this overview of what quartz countertops are, let’s look at the cost factors.

What Factors Affect the Cost of Quartz Countertops?

Several key factors determine quartz countertop pricing:

1. Brand

Quartz countertop prices are heavily influenced by the brand. Higher-end designer brands like Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone are priced in the premium range. Lower and mid-range options from IKEA, Lowe’s, and Home Depot are more budget-friendly.

Luxury designer brands cost more because they invest in research and technology to create unique colors and patterns. They also rigorously test performance and durability in their labs.

2. Color and Pattern

Lighter quartz colors and more uniform patterns are typically the most affordable options. Prices go up for darker, bolder colors and heavily veined or flecked patterns that emulate luxury natural stone.

For example, a white or light gray quartz may start around $45 per square foot. While a dark color with dramatic veining can cost $75 per square foot or more.

3. Thickness

Standard quartz countertop thickness is 3/4 inch. However, 1 1/4 to 2 inch thick quartz is available for a more substantial, stone-like look. Naturally, the thicker the slabs, the higher the price per square foot.

4. Edge Profiles

The edges of a countertop also impact install costs. A simple eased or straight edge is the most economical choice. More elaborate profiles like ogee, bevel, or dupont adds labor time and expense.

5. Installation

Professional installation is recommended for proper support and seam placement with quartz countertops. Most quotes include installation, but costs will be higher if your layout requires more cuts and seams or inaccessible areas.

6. Custom Fabrication

For shaped countertops, integrated sinks, or special built-ins like cooktop surrounds, additional custom fabrication labor and design costs come into play.

7. Location

Regional variances in operational costs, wages, demand, and market prices also cause quartz countertop prices to range geographically. Prices tend to be higher in major metro areas.

Now that we’ve looked at what impacts the price, let’s examine actual quartz countertop cost ranges.

What Does Quartz Countertop Cost Per Square Foot?

The cost per square foot is the most common metric used to price quartz countertops. Prices typically range:**

Economy: $40 – $60 per square foot
Mid-Range: $60 – $80 per square foot
Premium/Luxury: $80 – $120+ per square foot

According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association 2020 survey, the average price installed for a quartz countertop was $81 per square foot.

But you can expect significant pricing variations based on the factors listed above. Here are some real-world examples:

Basic white or light gray IKEA quartz with eased edge profile – $45 per square foot
Cambria Brittanicca with intricate marble-look pattern – $95 per square foot
Premium Silestone with 2″ thickness and handcut edge – $140 per square foot

Many quartz manufactures and fabricators now offer online estimators to receive a ballpark quote tailored to your specific project requirements. This can give you a helpful starting point for budgeting purposes.

Cost to Install Quartz Countertops by Kitchen Size

To give you an idea of what total installed costs look like, here are estimated price ranges for common kitchen sizes:

Small Kitchen (35 sq.ft. countertops)

Economy Quartz: $1,400 – $2,100
Mid-Range Quartz: $2,100 – $2,800
Premium Quartz: $2,800 – $4,200

Average Cost: $2,800

Mid-Size Kitchen (50 sq.ft. countertops)

Economy Quartz: $2,000 – $3,000
Mid-Range Quartz: $3,000 – $4,000
Premium Quartz: $4,000 – $6,000

Average Cost: $4,000

Large Kitchen (75 sq.ft. countertops)

Economy Quartz: $3,000 – $4,500
Mid-Range Quartz: $4,500 – $6,000
Premium Quartz: $6,000 – $9,000

Average Cost: $6,000

As you can see, quartz countertop costs for an average kitchen fall in the range of $2,800 to $4,000 for a typical mid-range product. But the sky’s the limit for larger kitchens selecting premium materials and fabrication.

Does Quartz Color Affect the Price?

As mentioned earlier, quartz colors and patterns have a definite impact on pricing. Here is how it typically breaks down:

Least Expensive:

Whites
Light grays
Beiges
Creams

These lighter neutrals and solid-colored slabs are the most affordable options starting around $40 per square foot.

Mid-Range Pricing:

Medium tones
Honed finishes
Small flecks/sparse veining

Subtle patterns and colors in the tan, brown, and gray palette are moderately priced from $60-80 per square foot.

Most Expensive:

Dark colors
Heavy veining/movement
Vivid colors and patterns
Metallic finishes

Dramatic dark slabs with bold veining or luxury looks cost $80-120+ per square foot. These include exotic styles mimicking marble, granite, and onyx.

How Much Does Quartz Countertop Installation Cost?

The fabrication and installation of quartz countertops typically costs $35 to $75 per hour. A typical mid-sized kitchen with two workers may take 8-16 hours for templating, cutting, polishing, installation, and cleanup. This would price installation between $500 – $1,200.

However, most installers provide an all-inclusive overall project quote versus hourly rates. Be sure your quote specifies what’s covered, including:

Digital template of existing counters
Fabrication of new quartz pieces
Seam placement planning
Cutouts for sinks and faucets
Finishing and polishing
Transportation and installation
Cleanup

Does Quartz Need to be Sealed?

A major benefit of quartz countertops is that sealing is not required. Since quartz is non-porous, it will not absorb stains and liquids. Therefore, sealing agents cannot penetrate the surface.

You also don’t have to worry about sealing maintenance every 1-2 years like with natural stone counters. Simply cleaning quartz with soap and water is sufficient to keep it looking like new. The lack of sealing needs makes maintenance easy.

How Long Does Quartz Countertop Installation Take?

The full process of measuring, fabricating, and installing quartz countertops typically takes 5-15 business days. Here is a breakdown of the timeline:

Template & Measure: 1-2 days
Manufacturing: 3-7 days
Installation: 1-2 days

The actual installation only takes 1-2 days after the pieces are cut and polished offsite at the fabricator’s workshop. But you need to account for template creation and manufacturing time when planning your schedule.

Rushing the project by requesting quicker manufacturing leads to higher costs. So be sure to build adequate lead time into your renovation plans.

Should I Install Quartz Countertops Myself?

Installing quartz countertops yourself as a DIY project is not advisable. Since improper installation can lead to cracking, gaps, misalignment, and other issues down the road. Professional installation by a qualified fabricator is strongly recommended.

Here are some key reasons to have quartz installed by the pros:

Precision cuts: Accuracy within 1/16th of an inch is needed to achieve tight seams. This requires specialized tools.
Seam placement: Professionals plan the layout to minimize visible seams.
Reinforced support: Additional structural support may be needed underneath quartz to prevent cracking long-term.
Handling: Quartz slabs are dense, fragile, and weigh 100-200 pounds. Mishandling risks damaging your investment.
Technical experience: Skills developed from years of training and practice.

Do-it-yourself quartz installation is certainly possible. But the risks often outweigh any cost savings unless you have the necessary tools, experience, help, and accept a DIY aesthetic result.

Quartz Countertops: Frequently Asked Questions

Many homeowners have additional questions about the costs, benefits, and drawbacks of quartz countertops. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:

Are quartz countertops more expensive than granite?

Quartz countertops are comparable in price to granite, starting around $40 per square foot installed. More exotic granite may exceed the cost of premium quartz. But for mid-range options, pricing is similar.

How long will quartz countertops last?

With proper care, quartz countertops can last 25 years or longer before needing replacement. This lifespan exceeds materials like laminate while rivaling natural stone.

Can you repair quartz countertops?

Minor damage like superficial scratches can often be buffed and polished out of a quartz surface. But cracks, chips, and structural damage cannot be repaired. Seam separation may require quartz replacement.

Are quartz countertops worth the extra cost?

For homeowners wanting an attractive, low-maintenance surface, quartz is often worth the moderate upcharge over cheaper options like tile or laminate. The durability and longevity offset the higher initial investment.

Should I get an integrated or drop-in sink with quartz?

Integrated sinks cost more but provide a beautiful seamless look. Drop-in sinks are simpler to replace if damaged. The choice comes down to aesthetics and budget.

How thick should quartz countertops be?

The standard thickness of 3/4 inch is plenty sturdy for most residential kitchens. Go thicker only if you want the substantial feel of stone. Too thick and the countertop may crack under its own weight.

Can you have different edge profiles on one quartz countertop?

Yes, mixing and matching edge profiles like eased, bullnose, or bevel on the same quartz installation is perfectly fine. Just inform your fabricator of your desired combination.

The Bottom Line

Quartz offers homeowners an attractive, versatile, and durable surface for kitchens and baths. Pricing is on par with mid-range to high-end granite, starting around $60 per square foot installed. Costs can reach $100+ per square foot for premium designer brands.

Carefully evaluate the color, pattern, edges, and thickness you need for your space. Also consider any custom cutouts or shaping. Collect quotes from 3-5 local fabricators to compare pricing. With some smart planning and shopping, quartz can deliver beautiful and long-lasting results within many homeowners’ budgets.

How to Choose the Best Quartz Countertop Color for Your Space

With quartz countertops available in a vast spectrum of styles, patterns, and colors, choosing the right one for your kitchen or bath can be overwhelming. Follow these tips to select the perfect quartz color for your space and decor.

Gather Inspiration

Start gathering images of quartz colors and patterns you’re drawn to. Look through home design magazines and websites for kitchen and bath photos featuring quartz. Visit showrooms to see slabs in person. This will help develop an idea of your preferences.

Focus on colors that create the overall mood or ambiance you want – bright and airy, soft and relaxed, bold and dramatic. Cool tones like grays create sleek, modern looks. Warm neutrals like tans or browns have versatile, timeless appeal.

Consider Your Architectural Style

Match your quartz to the existing style of your home. For traditional spaces, classic white or neutral quartz mimics marble. In arts and crafts homes, earthy browns and tans complement the natural vibe. Contemporary designs come alive with dramatic patterns or solid dark hues.

You can also use quartz to create contrast. For example, white quartz on dark cabinetry makes the space pop.

Coordinate with Cabinets and Flooring

Quartz selected without cabinet and flooring colors in mind may clash. Pull colors from existing elements like cabinet stains or tile grout. Neutrals like white quartz blend seamlessly.

Darker quartz can make light cabinets really stand out. Lighter quartz prevents heavy dark cabinetry from feeling too imposing. Sample pieces of all finishes together before finalizing.

Factor in Lighting

The natural and artificial lighting in your space impacts how colors look. View potential slabs in both day and night lighting. Bold dark quartz can feel dramatic in bright daylight but disappear in dimmer settings. Lighter colors show details better in low light.

If possible, bring home a sample to see the full color range in your actual space before deciding. This gives you the most accurate representation.

Visualize How the Space Is Used

Consider the activities that will take place on the counters. Delicate marble-looks prone to scratching and staining may not be ideal for active kids’ bathroom vanities. White can highlight grime in messy baking zones. But rich hues disguise daily wear in family spaces.

Choose Complimentary Backsplashes and Edge Profiles

A well-matched backsplash and edge profile compliment or enhance the quartz’s pattern and colors. Contrasting edges help lighter quartz stand out against white tile. Backsplashes that pull out a secondary color connect the space.

Be Open to the Unexpected

Don’t limit yourself to assumed “safe” neutrals without exploring bolder options. That striking quartz you never envisioned in your home could become your favorite part of the redesign. Some unexpected choices that stretch your comfort zone create stunning results.

The Right Quartz Sets the Tone

With limitless options to suit any taste or decor, quartz offers flexibility to realize your dream aesthetic. Evaluating these factors helps ensure your selected color and style unifies, accents, and elevates the whole space into a cohesive vision you’ll enjoy for years to come.

How to Care for Quartz Countertops and Keep Them Looking Like New

Thanks to quartz’s durable, non-porous surface, caring for quartz countertops is simple compared to many other materials. With just a bit of routine cleaning and awareness of a few basic care guidelines, quartz countertops will maintain their good-as-new beauty and luster for years.

Regular Cleaning

For day-to-day care, quartz requires only minimal maintenance. Follow these habits to keep your quartz counters spotless:

Wipe up spills immediately to prevent stains.
Clean surfaces using a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and mild soap. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads.
Rinse off any soapy residue thoroughly after cleaning.
Buff dry with a soft cloth. Microfiber cloths work well.
For dried-on messes, use a non-abrasive cleaner specifically formulated for quartz.
Disinfect occasionally with an antimicrobial quartz cleaner to kill germs.

That’s all it takes to clean quartz! No sealing or polishing necessary. Consistent light cleaning prevents the need for heavy-duty cleaning down the road.

Preventing Damage

While durable, quartz countertops aren’t indestructible. Follow these precautions to keep them damage-free:

Use cutting boards when chopping, slicing, or prepping food. Never cut directly on the counter.
Place hot pans, pots, and bakeware on trivets. Avoid exposing quartz to very high direct heat.
Don’t let spills like wine, coffee, or fruit juices sit. Acids can etch quartz over time.
Clean up oil, grease, and cream spills ASAP. Long-term contact can lead to staining.
Avoid dropping heavy objects on quartz. Impact can chip the edges and corners.
Keep nails, knives, keys and other sharp objects away from the surface. Scratching is still possible.
Check chemical cleaner labels for quartz compatibility. Many can damage the finish.

Professional Maintenance

Every 3-5

How Much Is Quartz Countertop?