Installing new countertops can completely transform the look and feel of your kitchen or bathroom. Quartz has become an increasingly popular choice for countertops due to its durability, low maintenance, and visually appealing appearance. When considering quartz countertops, one of the first questions that comes to mind is often “how much is quartz countertops installed?” As with most home improvement projects, the total cost depends on several factors.
What is Quartz?
Before diving into installation costs, it helps to have a basic understanding of what quartz countertops are. Quartz is an engineered stone made from crushed quartz particles combined with resin and pigments. The result is a non-porous, abrasion-resistant material that is highly durable while still having the beauty and elegance of natural stone.
Some key advantages of quartz countertops include:
- Extremely durable and scratch-resistant
- Non-porous – does not require sealing
- Resists stains
- Wide variety of colors and patterns
- Requires very little maintenance
- Heat and impact resistant
Quartz provides the look and feel of natural stone without some of the hassles that can come with maintaining and caring for granite or marble. Keeping the benefits of quartz in mind will help understand why installing quartz may be a smart investment despite slightly higher upfront costs compared to some other countertop materials.
Factors That Impact Installed Costs
When estimating your total costs for quartz countertops installation, there are several important factors to consider:
1. Slab Size and Thickness
Quartz slabs are available in standard thicknesses of 2cm (3/4″), 3cm (1 1/4″), and 4cm (1 1/2″). 3cm slabs are the most common thickness for countertops. Going with a thicker slab will increase material costs.
The surface area needed to cover your existing countertops also impacts costs. Larger surface areas require more slab material. Accurately measuring the linear feet of countertop needed is essential for estimating how much quartz you need to purchase.
2. Slab Quality and Color
Quartz pricing can vary based on the quality, color, and pattern of the slab. More basic slab options in whites or grays tend to cost less than premium designer colors or slabs with intricate patterns. Special order colors and patterns usually add $5-$15 per square foot onto the total price.
3. Edge Profiles
The edge of your countertop is another area that influences installed costs. A standard 1 1/2″ straight edge is the most affordable option. Special edge treatments like ogee, dupont, or triple pencil edges add complexity for fabricators to cut and polish. These intricate edges can add $10-$30 per linear foot to the total price.
4. Backsplashes and Additional Features
Integrating backsplashes and other features like drain boards, cooktop cutouts, and appliance garages will increase the scope of the installation work needed and costs. Backsplashes made from the same quartz slab material run between $40-$100 per linear foot installed.
5. Demolition and Disposal
If you are replacing old countertops, the additional labor for safe removal and disposal of the old tops needs to be factored into the price quote. Time spent demolishing existing materials and preparing the surface for new tops can add a few hundred dollars depending on the scope.
6. Fabrication and Installation
The main costs for any countertop project come down to fabrication and professional installation. Your location will influence prices as labor rates vary regionally. Complex job sites or increased installation time also drive up costs. Most quartz fabricators charge between $70-$150 per hour for installation.
Cost Breakdown: Average Price per Square Foot
Taking the factors above into consideration, most quartz countertops installation projects fall within the following ranges:
- Quartz Material Cost: $40 – $100 per square foot
- Fabrication & Installation: $70 – $150 per hour
- Total Installed Cost: $80 – $185 per square foot
The biggest variable in the equation is the installation rate charged by the fabricator. For a relatively straightforward kitchen quartz install, expect to pay around $100-$150 per square foot. More complex projects may be on the higher end of that range.
As a very general rule of thumb, installed costs for 3cm quartz countertops range $100-$185 per square foot on average. Here is a sample breakdown for a moderately priced install:
- Quartz Material: $75 per sq. ft.
- Fabrication & Installation: $100 per sq. ft.
- Total Cost: $175 per sq. ft.
Cost Comparison to Other Countertop Materials
Comparing the costs of quartz to other popular countertop materials provides additional context:
- Laminate countertops: $40-$75 per square foot installed
- Granite countertops: $80-$150 per square foot installed
- Marble countertops: $100-$250 per square foot installed
- Quartz countertops: $100-$185 per square foot installed
So while not the least expensive option, installed costs for quartz counterops are comparable and competitive with most other materials, especially when factoring in the durability and low maintenance of quartz.
How to Get Accurate Estimates for Your Project
Since every kitchen or bath project is unique, the best way to get an accurate estimate is to have professional fabricators measure your specific job site and provide a detailed quote. Be sure to get at least 3-5 quotes to compare pricing.
When meeting with fabricators, make sure to ask about:
- Total projected material costs including slabs, edging, and backsplashes
- Estimated fabrication and installation time and hourly rates
- Additional costs for demolition and disposal
- Warranty coverage (a 10-15 year warranty is standard for quartz)
Doing your research, getting quotes from experienced professionals, and understanding what factors influence cost are the best ways to gain confidence that you are getting quality quartz countertops installed at a fair and reasonable price for your specific project.
FAQ
What is the cheapest price for installed quartz countertops?
For basic white or gray 3cm quartz with a standard edge, prices could potentially start around $80 per square foot. However, for better quality material and professional installation, $100 per square foot is a more realistic minimum.
What factors make quartz cost more per square foot?
Premium quartz colors and patterns, thicker slabs, intricate edges, large surface areas, and complex installations with extra features like backsplashes and cooktop cutouts all increase the total price per square foot.
Is it cheaper to install quartz yourself?
Attempting DIY quartz installation is not recommended. The tools needed to accurately fabricate and install quartz make hiring a professional the much better option in nearly all cases. The risks of cracking slabs or improper seam placement are very high for DIYers.
Should I expect to pay more for installation than the countertop slabs?
Yes, it is typical for the fabrication and installation costs to exceed the price of the slab materials themselves. The level of expertise and time required to properly cut, polish, transport, and install quartz countertops is why professional installation is so important for getting high quality results.
How much does quartz cost compared to granite or marble?
Quartz costs a similar amount to granite, typically ranging $100-$185 per square foot installed. Marble is on the higher end, with installed prices from $150-$250 per square foot on average.
Conclusion
Installing new quartz countertops can revitalize the look of your kitchen or bath. With an average cost ranging $100-$185 per square foot installed, quartz provides great value, outstanding durability, and timeless elegance. Paying a bit more upfront for proper fabrication and professional installation will help ensure your new quartz tops enhance your space beautifully and seamlessly for many years. Use this guide to better understand the factors that influence total costs when evaluating quotes from local quartz fabricators. With careful planning and smart prep, you can gain peace of mind that your investment in new quartz countertops will significantly enhance your home for years to come.