Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodels in recent years. Made from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments, quartz offers an attractive, durable, and low-maintenance alternative to natural stone and laminate. But with the wide variety of quartz products on the market, how much do quartz countertops cost on average? Here is a detailed overview of the factors that influence how much quartz countertops cost, along with price ranges you can expect.
What Impacts The Cost of Quartz Countertops?
Several key factors determine the installed price of quartz countertops in your home. These include:
Quartz Brand and Quality
As with most products, the brand and quality level impact the price of quartz slabs and fabricated countertops. Low-end brands such as Vicostone and MSI quartz tend to cost $40-50 per square foot. Mid-range options like Caesarstone and Cambria quartz run $50-70 per square foot installed. High-end designer quartz like Santa Margherita or Silestone can range from $70-150+ per square foot installed.
The price difference comes down to factors like quartz purity, pattern variety, consistency, and performance certifications. Make sure to balance cost with factors like stain resistance, hardness, and warranty coverage.
Color and Pattern
Plain quartz colors like white are generally the most affordable, starting around $40-50 per square foot. Unique colors and patterns like marble, granite, and wood looks cost more, in the $50-100 per square foot range. More complex gradient and recycled glass patterns fall on the higher end as well.
That said, trends come and go – a color that is premium one year may become standard and more affordable over time.
Thickness
Standard quartz thickness is 3/4″ (2cm) which provides enough strength for most home kitchens and baths. Thicker 1 1/4” (3cm) slabs run 10-15% more but can handle heavier commercial use. Greater thickness means more material, so prices are higher.
Finished Edges
Square cut edges are standard. Upgraded edge profiles like bullnose, ogee, and dupont add $5-15 per linear foot typically. Intricate edges with multiple contours can run even more. The fabrication time and specialized router bits required justify the higher cost.
Backsplash
Matching quartz backsplashes typically add $10-30 per linear foot installed depending on the height. Full height backsplashes and more complex patterns cost more. Many homeowners choose a different backsplash material like glass or ceramic tile to reduce costs.
Installation
Professional countertop installation averages $40-80 per hour. The time required ranges based on the layout complexity. Standard kitchen installs may take 10-20 hours, while intricate tile patterns, precision seams, and access limitations can increase time. DIY installs save on labor but have more risk of cracks, seams, and alignment issues if not handled properly.
Market Factors
Pricing for all countertop materials can fluctuate across different markets. Factors like labor costs, material availability, and demand influence what you’ll pay. Expect to pay 15-25% more for quartz in expensive urban areas versus small towns.
Average Quartz Countertop Costs
Based on the factors above, here are typical price ranges for quartz countertops:
- Low-end: $40-50 per sq. ft. installed
- Mid-range: $50-75 per sq. ft. installed
- High-end: $75-150+ per sq. ft. installed
According to the Remodeling Calculator, the average installed cost of quartz countertops is about $75 per square foot, not including demolition of old counters.
For the material only without fabrication or installation, expect to pay $35-50 per sq. ft. for low to mid grade quartz. Prices start as low as $25 per square foot for wholesale slabs.
Cost to Install Quartz Countertops by Area
To give you a better idea, here are estimated installed costs for some typical kitchen and bath areas:
- Small galley kitchen (10 linear ft perimeter): $1,400-$2,200
- Medium kitchen (30 linear ft perimeter): $3,500-$5,500
- Large open kitchen (50 linear ft perimeter): $6,500-$9,500
- Bathroom vanity (8 ft perimeter): $850-$1,500
- Bathroom vanity (6 ft perimeter): $650-$1,200
- Island (10 sq ft area): $750-$1,500
- Bar countertop (12 sq ft area): $900-$1,800
Costs scale up or down if your project area is smaller or larger. Complex designs, edges, and special cutouts will also increase the final price.
DIY Quartz Countertop Cost
For an experienced DIYer, handling your own quartz countertop installation can save 30-50% on costs. You still pay full price for the slabs at $35-50 per sq. ft. But avoiding labor for fabrication and installation provides big savings.
Be aware you need the right skills and tools to fabricate seams cleanly and get edges squared properly. Professional edging equipment is expensive. DIY also requires safely handling and securing heavy quartz slabs. Getting measurements and cutouts 100% accurate is critical, as quartz has no room for error. Any mistakes mean buying a new slab.
How Quartz Compares to Other Countertop Materials
To help decide if quartz offers a good value, here is how it compares to other popular countertop materials:
- Laminate countertops average $20-40 installed per square foot. Very affordable but prone to scratches, heat damage, and wear over time. Limited colors and edge options.
- Wood countertops range from $50-200+ per square foot installed depending on wood species. Requires diligent sealing and offers limited heat and scratch resistance.
- Soapstone countertops cost $70-100 per square foot installed. Develops a unique patina over time but requires periodic sealing. Heat and stain resistant.
- Marble countertops run $75-250 per square foot installed. A luxury material but can stain and etch without proper sealing, requiring frequent polishing.
- Granite countertops range from $60-150 per square foot installed. Great durability but limited color range. Requires annual sealing.
- Concrete countertops average $85-185 per square foot installed. Heavy and prone to cracking and etching without proper sealing. Unique finished look.
Based on this comparison, quartz provides a great balance of affordability, aesthetics, and durability for most homeowners. The engineered composition avoids weaknesses of natural stone while offering more permanence than laminates.
Factors That May Increase Your Quartz Countertop Cost
Beyond the base price of materials and installation, several other variables can increase your total quartz countertop budget:
- Old countertop demolition/disposal fees
- Plumbing modifications for sink and faucet installs
- Electrical work for outlets or under-cabinet lighting
- Cabinet or tile backsplash modifications
- Additional cutouts for sinks or appliances
- Shipping costs for slabs/materials
Any construction surprises lurking under old countertops can also drive up costs. Planning ahead helps avoid unexpected issues down the road.
Tips for Keeping Quartz Countertop Costs Low
To get beautiful quartz counters without overspending, keep these tips in mind:
- Find the most affordable quartz brand that still offers the colors, patterns, and warranty you want.
- Select a simple square edge profile rather than intricate edges.
- Use a matching backsplash rather than a secondary material like tile.
- Install counters yourself if you have the DIY skills.
- Provide your own sink and faucet to avoid markup.
- Reuse existing cutouts for sinks and appliances if possible.
- Shop around with multiple local installers and compare estimates.
- Purchase materials yourself then hire a fabricator/installer.
- Consider smaller quartz pieces on top of existing counters to save costs.
- Time the project in winter or fall when demand is lower and sales are more likely.
Saving on certain aspects allows you to stretch your budget further when choosing the quartz materials themselves.
Quartz Countertops Maintenance Costs
One of the best selling points of quartz counters is extremely low maintenance costs. The non-porous material never needs sealing or polishing. Simple cleaning with soap and water keeps quartz looking like new for decades.
You may wish to apply a stone cleaner or sealant occasionally, costing around $15-25 per application. But even this routine maintenance is optional. For homeowners wanting beautiful, low-hassle countertops, quartz requires almost zero upkeep costs long-term.
Financing Options for Quartz Countertops
Given the higher upfront investment for quartz countertops compared to materials like laminate, financing options are available to help spread out costs over time:
- Credit cards: Many quartz fabricators accept credit cards, allowing you to earn rewards on the purchase and pay over time. Interest rates vary based on card terms.
- Personal loans or lines of credit: Banks and credit unions offer installment loans that can be used for home improvements at competitive interest rates over fixed terms like 5 years. This spreads out payments.
- Home equity loans/lines: Tapping existing home equity allows you to fund countertop projects at lower interest rates and pay down the balance over years. Closing costs apply.
- Dealer financing: Many quartz product dealers offer their own financing programs with little or no interest over a year or longer. Payments are made directly to the dealer.
- Countertop retailer credit: Big box stores like Lowes and Home Depot offer credit lines that can be used for countertop installs on flexible payment plans.
Carefully compare rates and repayment terms before choosing the right financing option for your budget.
How Much Do Quartz Countertops Add to Home Value?
Upgrading to quartz countertops offers excellent return on investment if selling your home. According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2020 Cost vs. Value report, quartz countertop remodeling brings a 72% ROI.
In other words, for every $1 invested, homeowners can expect to recoup $0.72 upon selling. Paybacks are even higher in upscale neighborhoods and luxury homes, where high-end quartz counters boost buyer appeal.
Even lower end quartz usually adds more home value than laminates or outdated solid surface countertops when selling. Along with kitchen and bathroom remodels, countertop upgrades remain among the best investments to boost resale value.
Bottom Line: Cost Considerations for Quartz Countertops
When used in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and more, quartz delivers an unbeatable combination of performance, convenience, and lasting beauty. While quartz costs significantly more upfront than options like laminate, it outperforms in the long run with superior durability, easy maintenance, and excellent resale value.
Consumers have an increasing range of quartz brands, patterns, colors and prices to accommodate most budgets. By keeping your project size modest, using simple edges, and shopping sales, you can invest in quartz countertops without overspending. For homeowners wanting beautiful, fuss-free counters that last a lifetime, quartz provides excellent long-term value.
Frequently Asked Questions About How Much Quartz Countertops
Finding the right quartz countertop for your home at the right price can seem daunting between the myriad of options. To help, here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about how much quartz countertops cost and what impacts pricing:
What factors increase installed quartz countertop costs?
The brand, color/pattern, thickness, edge profiles, size of application, and complexity of installation all contribute to pricing. High-demand premium materials, intricate installations, and special features raise costs. Simple edges, popular colors, and smaller projects help lower expenses.
How much does quartz cost compared to granite or marble?
Quartz pricing overlaps natural stone. Low-end quartz can be less than granite or marble. Mid-range quartz runs about the same as granite/marble. High-end designer quartz costs much more than most granites and marbles.
Should I expect to pay more for quartz than laminate counters?
Yes, quartz is almost always more expensive than laminate. The average quartz countertop costs $70-80 per square foot installed vs. $30-50 per square foot for laminate. But quartz offers greater durability, more colors/patterns, and higher resale value.
Can I install quartz counters myself?
In theory yes, but it requires expertise working with large heavy slabs and making perfect seams. DIY installation can save 30-50% on labor costs but has much higher risk of cracks, errors, and poor seams if not properly fabricated. Most homeowners are better hiring professionals.
How thick should quartz countertops be?
Standard 3/4” to 1 1/4” thickness is suitable for residential kitchens and baths. 1 1/4” or 1 1/2” offers more durability for heavy commercial use. Thickness does impact installed costs.
How much cheaper are quartz remnants than full slabs?
Remnant quartz pieces save about 20-40% compared to full slabs. Remnants work well for small areas but offer limited size and color options. Labor costs may be similar for remnants.
Can I use quartz outdoors?
Outdoor installation is not recommended. Constant sun, moisture, and freeze-thaw cycles can damage quartz and cause discoloration or cracking over time. Quartz is optimized for interior use.
Is white quartz more affordable than colored quartz?
Generally yes, brighter whites are among the most budget-friendly options for standard patterns. Gray, black, and more complex colors add 15-30% to the slab prices in many cases. But material costs make up only part of total installed pricing.
How often do I need to seal quartz countertops?
Quartz never requires sealing, unlike granite or marble. The non-porous material stays stain-resistant on its own. No ongoing sealing and polishing makes maintenance easy.
Conclusion
When chosen with smart budgeting in mind, quartz countertops offer an unparalleled combination of beauty and performance for kitchens, baths, and other living spaces. Starting around $40 per square foot installed, quartz manages to be cost-competitive with higher-end natural stone and wood materials while requiring no regular maintenance.
Carefully calculate the size of your project and shop quartz slabs wisely to get the most attractive colors and patterns for your budget. While not cheap, quartz delivers lasting quality and can significantly enhance your home’s aesthetic and value for decades to come. Invest wisely, and you’re sure to love your new quartz countertops for years on end.