Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone, have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodels in recent years. With a wide variety of colors, patterns, and finishes available, quartz offers the look of natural stone with increased durability and lower maintenance. But how much does it actually cost to install quartz countertops? Here is a detailed overview of quartz countertop installation costs and what impacts the total price.
Factors That Influence Quartz Countertop Installation Costs
Several key factors determine the total cost of quartz countertop installation:
Size of the Countertop Area
The total square footage of countertop needed is the primary driver of cost. More surface area equals higher material and labor costs. The average price is usually quoted per linear foot.
Type of Edge Profile
The edge profile detail, such as a standard square edge versus an ornate ogee edge, impacts fabrication time and materials. More complex edges cost more to produce.
Thickness of the Slab
Quartz slabs come in standard thicknesses of 2cm, 3cm, and 4cm. Thicker slabs are more durable but also more expensive.
Complexity of Job
Simple countertop layouts with few seams, cutouts, or special features are cheaper to install than complex designs.
Quality of Materials
Higher-end quartz brands cost more than value options. The quality of the adhesive, fasteners, and other installation materials also affects overall project cost.
Geographical Location
Regional labour costs make installation prices vary across different parts of the country. Material shipping costs may also be higher in certain areas.
Cost Breakdown for Quartz Countertop Installation
A typical quartz countertop installation involves the following costs:
- Quartz Material – $40-$100 per square foot for the slabs. More premium brands and thicker quartz cost more.
- Fabrication – $50-$100 per linear foot for cutting, shaping, and edgework. Complex projects cost more.
- Installation – $3-$10 per square foot for countertop fitting, sealing, and fastening. Simple layouts are at the lower end.
- Miscellaneous Supplies – $3-$5 per linear foot for adhesive, sealant, fasteners, etc.
- Design & Planning – Some fabricators charge $50-$100 per hour for design work and project planning. This may be waived for larger jobs.
Total cost – On average, expect to pay $100-$200 per square foot for materials and installation of a standard quartz kitchen countertop. High-end jobs with premium materials can be $250+ per square foot.
Cost to Install Quartz Countertops by Area
Here are typical price ranges for quartz countertop installation based on the total surface area needed:
- Small Areas (10 sq ft) – $1,000 to $2,000
- Medium Areas (35 sq ft) – $3,500 to $7,000
- Large Areas (50+ sq ft) – $5,000 to $12,000+
For example, installing a premium quartz countertop in a 10′ x 10′ kitchen with an 8′ long island may cost around $8,000 total.
Factors That Increase Quartz Countertop Costs
Several options can increase the total installation price:
- Thicker slab – 3cm is standard. Going to 4cm thick adds $10-$20 per sq ft.
- Premium brand – Like Caesarstone, Cambria, etc. Can be 2-3x the cost of value brands.
- Full backsplashes – $50-$100 per linear foot, vs standard 4”-6” backsplash.
- Specialty edges – Beveled, ogee, & unique profiles add fabrication time.
- Intricate seams – Seam placement planning for intricate shapes costs more.
- Cutouts – For sinks, faucets, cooktops. Each adds $50-$200 to fabrication.
- Demolition fees – Removing old countertop adds $2-$5 per sq ft.
Factors That Reduce Quartz Countertop Costs
You can lower the total installation price with these options:
- Standard thickness – 2cm slabs instead of 3cm can save $5-$10 per sq ft.
- Square edge profile – The simplest edge detail reduces fabrication time.
- Fewer seams – Having fewer countertop sections cuts fabrication costs.
- Integrated sink – A seamless undermount sink avoids sink cutouts.
- Value brand quartz – Rather than premium options like Caesarstone.
- Reusing existing base cabinets – Avoids demolition and new cabinet fees.
Quotes from Quartz Countertop Installers
To understand real costs, here are example price quotes from quartz countertop installation companies:
“For a 30 square foot quartz countertop install with standard edge profile, installed on your existing cabinets, expect costs around $2,500 – $3,500.”
“A high-end Caesarstone quartz countertop install with an ornate edge, full backsplash, and two cutouts will be $8,000 – $10,000 for a 50 square foot kitchen.”
“We offer more affordable quartz countertop installation starting at $75 per square foot with value slab options and simple edge profiles.”
DIY Quartz Countertop Installation
Installing quartz countertops yourself can dramatically reduce costs, but has some key drawbacks:
- You need to rent or borrow tools like a saw, router, and clamping system. Not feasible for most people.
- Precisely cutting, fastening, and seaming quartz requires experience to get right. Mistakes permanently damage expensive slabs.
- Missteps will be very visible. Quartz leaves little margin for error compared to other materials.
- You still need professional fabricators for edgework, sink cutouts, and polishing.
For most homeowners, DIY quartz countertop installation is not recommended due to the high risk of damage and the need for professional equipment. Hiring a qualified local fabricator and installer is worth the investment for an expert result.
How Long Does It Take to Install Quartz Countertops?
The installation process typically takes 2 to 3 days from start to finish:
- Day 1 – Old countertop demolition and new base cabinet installation.
- Day 2 – Quartz countertop fabrication and preparation. New countertop delivered to site.
- Day 3 – Installer fits and fastens the quartz counter on site. Finishes edges and sealings.
Actual installation time depends on the specific project scope. A small galley kitchen may only take 1 day while a large kitchen with multiple sections may need 3-4 days total.
There is often 2-4 week lead time from project quote to the installation date depending on the fabricator’s schedule.
Key Steps in the Quartz Countertop Installation Process
- Remove old countertop & prep the base cabinets
- Fabricator templates and precision cuts the new quartz slabs
- Edges are profiled and polished
- Sink/fixture cutouts are made
- Quartz sections are transported to site
- Installer fits the quartz pieces and adheres them
- Seams are sealed for an impermeable surface
- Backsplashes and edges are installed and finished
- Final countertop cleaning, polishing, and sealing
Hiring Professional Quartz Installers
Seeking qualified quartz countertop installation experts is highly recommended. Check for the following:
- Strong reviews and examples of past quartz jobs
- Years of experience fabricating and installing quartz
- Knowledge of the latest methods and quartz products
- Licensed, bonded, and insured
- Offers 3-5 year installation warranty
- Handles all aspects – templating, fabrication, installation
Beware of operations that seem inexperienced with quartz or only provide a very low bid. This likely indicates a lack of expertise.
Quartz Countertops – An Investment in Your Home
While not the cheapest kitchen upgrade, quartz countertops provide years of enjoyment and can significantly improve your home’s value. With a durable, low-maintenance surface that looks stunning, quartz counters are worth the investment for many homeowners. Carefully weigh the cost against the many benefits.
FAQ About Quartz Countertop Installation Costs
How much does it cost to install quartz countertops per linear foot?
Installing quartz countertops costs $100 to $200 per linear foot on average. The total price depends on the edge profile, brand of quartz, and complexity of the project.
Is quartz more expensive than granite?
Quartz countertops typically cost $5-50 more per square foot compared to granite. Quartz requires more processing but is more consistent and durable.
Should I hire one company for fabrication and another for installation?
It’s best to hire one company to handle the entire process from templating to installation. This ensures proper coordination and accountability.
Can I install quartz countertops over my existing counters?
It’s not recommended to install new quartz over old counters. The new slabs need to be secured properly to the underlying cabinetry for support.
How thick should a quartz countertop be?
The standard quartz slab thickness is 3cm, or about 1 1/4 inches. Thicker options like 4cm are more durable for heavy usage areas.
Is it cheaper to buy quartz slabs directly?
Purchasing slabs directly provides little cost savings since professional fabrication and installation is the bulk of the overall expense.
Can quartz counters be installed outdoors?
Quartz has very good UV and freeze-thaw resistance but is not impervious. Most warranties stipulate indoor installation only.
How long does it take to install quartz counters in a 35 sq ft kitchen?
For a typical 35 square foot kitchen, most fabricators can template, fabricate, and install the new quartz counters within 2-3 days.
Does every quartz seamed joint need support underneath?
Proper support under all seams is crucial. Screwed wood blocking or adhesive is added under joints for strength. Unsupported seams crack over time.
Conclusion
Installing new quartz countertops can have a dramatic impact on your kitchen or bathroom for years to come. While not an inexpensive upgrade, quartz provides unparalleled durability, aesthetics, and ease of maintenance compared to most surfaces. Investing in high-quality materials and professional installation services is well worth the cost for most homeowners. Carefully evaluate your specific project requirements and budget to choose the best quartz options tailored to your needs. With proper planning and execution, you can enjoy stunning, hassle-free quartz counters that will last a lifetime.