White quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects in recent years. With their bright, clean look and excellent durability, it’s easy to see why many homeowners are opting for quartz over more traditional countertop materials like granite or marble. But with so many options on the market, many homeowners find themselves wondering – how much does white quartz countertop cost? Here is an in-depth look at what goes into the cost of white quartz countertops and what you can expect to budget for your remodeling project.
What is Quartz Countertop?
Before diving into costs, it’s helpful to understand exactly what quartz countertops are. Quartz countertops are engineered stone surfaces made from ground quartz crystals combined with resin and pigments. The quartz content typically makes up 90-94% of the material, while the rest is polymer resins and pigments that determine the color and pattern.
The result is a non-porous, highly durable surface that resists scratches, stains, and heat. Quartz requires very little maintenance compared to natural stone. Unlike granite or marble, quartz does not need to be regularly sealed. The material is also more flexibile than natural stone slabs, making installation an easier process.
Factors That Determine White Quartz Countertop Cost
Several factors come into play when determining the overall cost of white quartz countertops in your home. Prices can range dramatically based on:
Quartz Brand
There are many major quartz manufacturers to choose from, including Silestone, Caesarstone, Cambria, and Viatera. Higher end designer brands like these often range from $60-$100 per square foot installed. Less expensive options from IKEA or local suppliers may cost half as much.
Color and Pattern
Plain white or solid color quartz tends to be the most affordable option. Unique patterns, bold veining, or multi-colored slabs will add to the overall cost per square foot.
Thickness
Standard thickness is 3/4″. Choose a thicker 1 1/4” slab for a more substantial feel, which will increase cost. Thinner 1/2″ options may save you about 10-15%.
Edge Styles
The edges of your countertop – such as simple eased edges or more intricate ogee edges – also affect the installation price. Fancy edge work usually adds $10-$15 per linear foot.
Installation
Hiring an experienced professional to template, fabricate, and install your quartz countertops will be approximately 50% of the total budget. DIY kits are available, but may have more limited color and edge options.
Permits, Tax, Template & Install
Other costs like permits, tax, template & installation fees can add another 15-20% to the total. It’s important to account for these expenses in your remodeling budget.
What is the Average Cost of White Quartz Countertops?
Taking all these factors into account, the average total cost for white quartz countertops falls between $80-$120 per square foot installed. This estimate includes everything – materials, labor, edges, permits, and any other incidentals.
As a very rough guideline:
- Budget Grade White Quartz: $60-$80 per square foot
- Mid Range White Quartz: $80-$100 per square foot
- Premium White Quartz: $100-$120 per square foot
To calculate the cost of your project, simply measure the square footage of countertop space needing replacement and multiply by the per square foot price range for your desired quartz quality. A typical 10×10 kitchen with 40 sf of countertop area would cost around $3,200-$4,800 for medium grade white quartz installed.
How to Get the Best Value on White Quartz
To get the most for your remodeling budget, keep the following tips in mind:
- Shop around and get quotes from 3-5 different countertop suppliers in your area. Comparing options can save you 20% or more.
- Consider lower priced alternatives like IKEA for simple white counters with eased edges. Quality is still good.
- Go with a thinner 1/2” slab if structurally possible for your application.
- Choose a simple square edge profile rather than intricate ogee or bevel designs.
- Purchase your sink/faucet separately to avoid markup. Coordinate with installer.
- Avoid overpaying for extras like added backsplashes or decorative trims.
- If feasible, use DIY quartz kits for potentially massive cost savings.
With some smart planning and comparison shopping, you can find white quartz countertops that fit your budget and style perfectly. Take time to weigh all the different factors that go into pricing so you can feel confident you’re getting the best value for your kitchen or bath remodeling project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest price for white quartz?
The lowest cost for basic white quartz starts around $45-$55 per square foot. However, rock-bottom pricing often means lower quality material. Expect to pay $60-$80 for decent white quartz.
Is white quartz more expensive than granite?
In most cases, white quartz countertops are slightly more expensive than granite. The average total cost of installed granite ranges $60-$100 per square foot compared to $80-$120 for quartz. Granite requires more maintenance which offsets long-term costs.
What thickness of quartz should I get?
The standard quartz thickness is 3/4” which works well for most applications. Go with 1 1/4” thickness for a substantial feel or 1/2″ to save money if structurally supported.
Is white quartz high maintenance?
No, white quartz requires virtually no maintenance compared to granite or marble. Quartz resists scratches, stains, and needs no sealing. Just clean with soap and water – no need for special stone cleaners or polishing.
Does quartz staining or etching?
Quartz is non-porous, so it resists stains very well. However, acidic substances like vinegar, lemon juice, or wine can etch the surface over time with repeated exposure. These dull spots are removable by a pro.
Can you cut on quartz countertops?
Yes, quartz can be safely cut on unlike natural stone which requires cutting boards. Use reasonable care around heat and harsh impacts. The material is quite resilient compared to granite or marble.
Conclusion
With an average total installed price of $80-$120 per square foot, white quartz delivers an attractive, care-free, and durable countertop surface. Upfront costs for quartz tend to be slightly higher than materials like granite, but the ease of maintenance makes it well worth the investment over time for most homeowners. There are also ways to reduce costs like choosing more basic edges, shopping around for discounts, or using DIY options. With some careful planning and smart decision making during the selection process, it’s possible to get beautiful white quartz countertops that fit comfortably within your kitchen or bathroom remodeling budget.