Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodels due to their durability, aesthetics, and reasonable cost. When budgeting for a quartz countertop installation, one of the key factors is determining the cost per square foot. Here is a detailed overview of what to expect when it comes to quartz countertop pricing.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, also known as engineered stone countertops, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The result is a man-made material that is non-porous, stain-resistant, and durable while having the beauty and visual depth of natural stone.
Some key features of quartz countertops:
- Made from 90-94% ground quartz bound with resins
- Non-porous so resists stains, scratches, heat, and bacteria growth
- Wide variety of colors and patterns available
- Does not require ongoing sealing like natural stone
- Resists chips, cracks and damage better than natural stone
- Easy maintenance – can be cleaned with soap and water
Quartz Pricing Factors
The cost of quartz countertops on a per square foot basis can range from $50 per square foot on the low end, up to $150 per square foot on the high end. The exact price depends on several factors:
Brand – Popular quartz brands like Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone are priced higher than generic or store brands.
Color and Pattern – Unique colors and patterns, especially those mimicking natural stone, tend to cost more.
Thickness – Standard thickness is 3/4″, but thicker 1 1/4″ slabs are available at a higher cost.
Edge Profiles – Decorative edges like ogee, bevel, and bullnose add labor and material costs.
Installation – Hiring an experienced fabricator and installer impacts overall project cost.
Location – Regional labor and material rates drive per square foot costs up or down.
Quartz Cost Comparison
Here is a general overview of average quartz countertop costs based on a few popular brands and styles:
- Low End – $50-70 per square foot
- Generic store brand like IKEA
- Neutral colors in matte finish
- Standard 3/4″ thickness
- Straight edge profile
- Mid-Range – $70-100 per square foot
- Name brands like Silestone, Caesarstone
- Popular patterns and colors
- Bullnose or simple edge
- 3/4″ thickness
- High End – $100-150 per square foot
- Premium brands like Cambria
- Exotic patterns and colors
- Full 1 1/4″ thickness
- Decorative edges like ogee
- Average Cost – Approximately $80 per square foot installed
Cost of Other Countertop Materials Comparison
To put quartz pricing into perspective, here is an overview of average installed costs for some other popular countertop materials:
- Laminate – $20-50 per square foot
- Tile – $40-100 per square foot
- Butcher Block – $50-100 per square foot
- Granite – $80-150 per square foot
- Marble – $100-200 per square foot
- Quartzite – $120-200 per square foot
- Soapstone – $100-200 per square foot
Installation Cost Breakdown
When budgeting for a new quartz countertop, it helps to understand what is included in the final installed price:
- Countertop Material – This makes up about 70% of the total price. Includes cost per square foot of the slabs, color/style choices, edges, and thickness.
- Fabrication – Approximately 10-15% of total cost. Involves precisely cutting slabs to measurements, cutting openings for sinks/faucets, and fabricating edges.
- Installation – Around 10-15% of total price. Includes transport, securing countertops, sealing seams, integrating sinks/faucets, cleanup, etc.
- Additional Expenses – May include demolition and removal of old countertops, plumbing or electrical adjustments, backsplashes, and sealing or waterproofing as needed.
How to Get the Best Value
Here are some tips to get the most value from your quartz countertop installation:
- Get quotes from 3-4 reputable local countertop suppliers to price shop
- Consider mixing quartz and laminate if budget is a concern
- Choose a style and color readily available rather than a custom/exclusive color
- Select a square or straight edge profile instead of decorative edges
- Opt for the standard 3/4” thickness unless you need a thick surface
- Install yourself if experienced to save on labor costs
- Provide accurate measurements and template to reduce fabrication waste
- Time the project during slower seasons for contractors to get better deals
Conclusion
In most cases, expect to invest around $70-100 per square foot for a quality quartz countertop installation from a reputable company. The final price can move up or down based on the factors outlined above. With proper planning and smart choices, quartz can be an affordable yet durable surface that enhances your kitchen or bath for years to come. Be sure to get multiple quotes and understand exactly what is included so there are no surprise costs after installation.