Cambria quartz countertops are a popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodels due to their durability, low maintenance, and wide range of colors and patterns. However, Cambria is considered a premium brand and comes at a higher price point than standard quartz. Here is a detailed overview of what factors impact the cost of Cambria quartz countertops and what you can expect to budget for a typical install.
What is Cambria Quartz?
Cambria is a leading American brand of engineered quartz surfaces for countertops and other applications. Here are some key facts about Cambria quartz:
- Made from 93% natural quartz aggregate blended with resins and pigments
- Offers a non-porous, stain-resistant, and low-maintenance surface
- Comes in a wide variety of designs from solid colors to realistic marbling and patterns
- Backed by a lifetime limited warranty
- Manufactured in the USA
Compared to natural stone like granite or marble, Cambria offers more consistency in coloring and patterning. It also resists scratches, heat, and stains better than many natural stone options. However, it comes at a higher installed price than more affordable quartz brands.
Cost Factors for Cambria Quartz Countertops
The total cost of Cambria quartz countertops will depend on several factors, including:
Material Cost
- Cambria slab prices: Ranges from $60-125 per square foot. More exotic designs and thicker slabs cost more.
- Edge profiles: Basic eased or pencil round edges add little cost. Decorative beveled, ogee, or double waterfall edges increase the linear foot price.
- Thickness: Standard 1 1⁄4” thick. Going to 1 1⁄2” or 2” is possible for a premium.
Installation Costs
- Labor: Fabricating and installing Cambria averages $100-150 per linear foot. Simple layouts and edging is on the lower end.
- Cutouts: Expect to pay extra for specialty cutouts for sinks, cooktops, and faucets. The more complex the layout, the higher the price.
- Backsplashes and additional surfaces: Backsplashes or use of Cambria on other surfaces like bathroom walls or fireplaces will increase the price.
Other Costs
- Transportation for slabs: Depending on distance to the distributor, this can add a few hundred dollars.
- Removal and disposal of old countertops: Average $1-3 per square foot depending on what needs to be removed.
Cost Range for a Typical Kitchen
Putting together all these factors, most homeowners spend $80-200 per square foot for a Cambria quartz countertop install. This breaks down as:
- $60-125 per square foot for the slab material
- $20-75 per square foot for fabrication and installation labor
For example, the cost to install Cambria quartz in a 30 square foot medium-sized kitchen would be around $3,000-6,000 for the countertops only. For a larger 50 square foot luxury kitchen with premium Cambria slabs and intricate installation, expect closer to $6,000-$12,000+.
As you can see, the costs add up quickly! Be sure to measure your space carefully and budget accordingly for your project.
Cost Comparison to Other Countertop Materials
Here is how Cambria quartz compares to other popular countertop options in terms of average installed cost per square foot:
- Laminate: $20-50
- Tile: $30-100
- Wood: $50-100
- Solid surface: $55-100
- Granite: $60-150
- Marble: $70-250
- Cambria quartz: $80-200
Cambria occupies a premium spot in the marketplace similar to high-end natural stone. It costs more than ceramic tile, solid surface, laminate, and standard quartz. Yet it is priced lower than many exotic marbles. This positions Cambria as an attractive option for luxury kitchens that want beauty and durability without the highest cost.
How to Get the Best Price on Cambria Countertops
Here are some tips to get the best deal on your Cambria quartz installation:
- Shop around for quotes, as prices can vary greatly between fabricators.
- Consider a smaller Cambria slab thickness (1 1⁄4”) unless extra thickness is structurally required.
- Select a basic edge profile like eased or pencil round.
- Reuse existing cutouts if possible rather than making new specialty cutouts.
- Go for a simple layout without odd angles or seams if you can.
- Inquire about any current sales promotions through retailers or fabricators.
Is Cambria Worth the Investment?
Cambria is one of the highest quality and best performing engineered quartz countertop materials. Given its durability, aesthetics, and hassle-free maintenance, most homeowners believe the extra cost over budget quartz or laminate is well worth it for a kitchen or bath remodel.
If aiming for luxury living, Cambria offers affordable opulence compared to marble and other premium natural stone at a similar price point. While not the least expensive option, the balance of beauty and practicality makes Cambria a dream countertop choice for many homeowners.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will Cambria quartz countertops last?
With proper care, Cambria countertops can last 50 years or longer before needing replacement. The nonporous surface resists scratching, staining, and heat damage better than many other materials.
Does Cambria offer any coupons or discounts?
Occasional sales and specials are available seasonally. Check with local retailers and fabricators or look on the Cambria website. Military, student, and trade union discounts are also sometimes offered.
Is Cambria more expensive than granite?
Cambria is comparable in price to many mid-range to high-end granites. More exotic imported granites can be more expensive. Domestic granites tend to be cheaper than Cambria.
Can you repair chips or cracks in Cambria quartz?
Minor chips and scratches can be buffed and polished out. But cracks or major damage will require a professional fabricator to cut out and replace the section of the countertop.
Does Cambria warranty cover staining?
Yes, the lifetime limited warranty covers manufacturer defects including stains. However, the warranty does not cover improper care or intentional abuse that leads to damage.
Conclusion
Cambria delivers the elegant stone-like beauty of quartz with exceptional performance. While costing more than laminate or tile, Cambria offers greater stain resistance, durability, and ease of maintenance. Investing in Cambria quartz transforms an ordinary kitchen or bath into a high-end showplace sure to impress. For homeowners seeking luxury living, Cambria’s premium price tag is well justified by decades of enduring beauty requiring little care.