Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom renovations due to their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance. However, like most home improvements, installing new countertops requires careful planning and budgeting. Here is a comprehensive guide on how much it costs to buy and install quartz countertops.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, also known as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with polyester resins and pigments. The resins bind the quartz particles together to create a hard, non-porous surface.
Unlike natural stone counters like granite and marble, quartz does not need to be sealed regularly. The lack of pores makes quartz resistant to stains, scratches, heat damage and etching from acidic foods. Quartz also comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns to suit any kitchen or bath design aesthetic.
Factors That Determine Quartz Countertop Cost
Several key factors impact the total costs of new quartz countertops:
Type of Quartz
- Basic: The lowest price range of $40-60 per square foot installed. Made with crushed quartz and less resin for more visible quartz particles. Limited color and style options.
- Standard: Mid-range quality at $60-100 per square foot installed. Balance of quartz and resin creates consistent background colors and patterns. Most popular residential option.
- Premium/Luxury: Highest quality quartz at over $100 per square foot. Made with pure quartz and high-quality resins. More color consistency and intricate patterns. Often has metallic flecks or 3D texture.
Color and Pattern
- Neutral solid colors like white and gray are the most affordable options.
- Bolder colors like black, blue, and red cost slightly more.
- Unique patterns and stone mimics can add $5-15 more per square foot.
- Metallic, glitter and 3D designs are premium options.
Installation Needs
- New install: Requires demolition, new base cabinets, and custom fabrication/installation of counters. Most expensive option.
- Remodel: Keep existing base cabinets and do custom fabrication/install. Moderate cost.
- Reface: Just replace surface of existing counters with new quartz. Most budget-friendly.
Countertop Edges
- Basic straight edge: Simple 90-degree angle, least expensive edge option.
- Bullnose, bevel, ogee: Rounded edges cost an extra $15-25 per linear foot.
- Full bullnose: Curved top and bottom edges, around $25-35 per linear foot.
- Mitered: Angled and pointed edges, $30+ per linear foot.
- Specialty edges: Waves, grooves, ridges add $35+ per linear foot.
Backsplashes
- Matching 3-6 inch quartz backsplash adds $15-25 per linear foot, moderately priced.
- Tile or stone backsplashes cost $25-50 per linear foot installed.
- Full quartz backsplashes up to the cabinets can be $50-100 per linear foot.
Size of Countertops
- Total square footage needed directly impacts price. Measure linear footage of counters x standard 25” depth.
- The more seams and corners, the more fabrication time and cost per project.
Installer Reputation and Experience
- Skilled and reputable fabricators charge higher rates but provide quality results. Get referrals.
- Newer or less experienced installers often have lower rates. Ask to see examples of finished projects.
Location
- Prices are highest in major metropolitan areas like New York City or San Francisco.
- Smaller cities or remote areas often have lower quartz prices.
- Shipping costs for materials impact prices in remote installation locations.
What’s Included in Quartz Countertop Costs
The total project price will include a range of line items:
- Materials: This covers the manufactured quartz slabs purchased. Prices vary based on type, color, pattern, and design intricacy selected. Materials account for 30-50% of total project budget.
- Fabrication: Costs for custom cutting, shaping, and finishing the slabs to fit your counter dimensions. Includes edge treatments. Fabrication is typically 25-40% of total cost.
- Installation: Labor fees to securely fasten the countertops in place. Usually 10-30% of total price.
- Removal: Taking out old counters if needed, expect to pay $50-150 per hour.
- Sink cutouts: Cutting holes for undermount sinks or cooktops costs $75-200 per opening.
- Plumbing: Connecting sinks, faucets and other fixtures is $65-95 per hour. This is a separate contractor cost.
- Backsplashes: Material costs and labor for installation of backsplashes.
- Sales tax: Counters are taxable so account for local sales tax on materials.
Quartz Countertop Cost Per Square Foot
On average, expect to pay the following per square foot for materials, fabrication and installation combined:
- Basic Quartz: $80-120 per square foot
- Standard Quartz: $100-140 per square foot
- Premium Quartz: $130-200+ per square foot
Of course, your total costs depend on the variables listed above. Use $100 per square foot as a moderate starting budget.
Here are some sample costs for common size ranges:
- Small kitchen (30 sq ft counters): $3,000 – $4,200 total
- Medium kitchen (40 sq ft counters): $4,000 – $5,600 total
- Large kitchen (60 sq ft counters): $6,000 – $8,400 total
- Master bath (25 sq ft counters): $2,500 – $3,500 total
Be sure to get an itemized estimate from fabricators, and remember additional costs like demolition, new cabinets, sinks, faucets and backsplashes.
Cost Comparison to Other Countertop Materials
How does the cost of quartz stack up against other popular options? Here is a pricing comparison per square foot installed:
- Laminate: $20-50 per square foot
- Tile: $30-100 per square foot
- Butcher Block: $70-150 per square foot
- Concrete: $85-185 per square foot
- Granite: $80-185 per square foot
- Marble: $75-250 per square foot
- Soapstone: $100-200 per square foot
- Quartzite: $100-250 per square foot
Quartz delivers high-end aesthetics with easier care than natural stone, for a moderate price point in comparison.
Cost to Install Quartz Countertops Yourself
Looking to save on labor fees? With some DIY skills, you may be able to do part of the installation yourself. Potential savings include:
- Find discounts on quartz: Check for remnant pieces, overstock slabs or outlet showrooms in your area. Shop warehouse stores like Costco for deals.
- Cut costs on edge treatments: Opt for a basic square edge instead of fancy edges.
- Install backsplash: Use peel-and-stick backsplash tiles rather than pricey fabricated quartz.
- Reuse cabinets: Keep existing base cabinets if suitable. Just replace the counter surface.
- DIY sink cutouts: Cut the hole for an undermount sink yourself following templates.
- Handling demo and disposal: Remove old counters yourself carefully to avoid damage. Rent a dumpster to dispose of debris.
However, fabrication and professional installation is recommended to ensure proper seam placement, support, and durability. Get experienced help at least for:
- Careful measurements and template making
- Cutting and shaping slabs
- Seam placement planning
- Attaching counters securely to cabinets
- Fine tuning edges and details
Mistakes in DIY quartz installs often lead to cracks or collapse down the road. Be sure to get professional fabrication and consult installers to determine what tasks you can reasonably take on yourself.
Maintenance Costs for Quartz Countertops
One advantage of quartz over natural stone is the low maintenance required. Expect minimal upkeep costs:
- No sealing required: Unlike porous granite or marble that require yearly sealing.
- Heat resistant: Quartz can withstand heat better than many surfaces, avoiding damage.
- Scratch resistant: Quartz stands up to heavy usage without scratching.
- Stain resistant: Spills wipe up easily.Won’t stain from acidic foods.
- Cleaning: Use a mild soap and water to clean. Avoid abrasive pads or cleaners.
- Refinishing: Unlike solid surfaces, quartz does not require refinishing or polishing over time.
Just avoid exposing quartz to excessive weight or impact that can chip the edges or crack seams. With reasonable care, quartz provides lasting beauty and durability for many years.
Is Quartz Worth the Investment?
Quartz delivers a winning combination of durability, ease of maintenance and stylish design. The upfront investment pays off over time with a lifetime of beauty and hassle-free use compared to other materials.
Given the factors that impact quartz costs, you can make choices to stay within your budget. Select a moderately priced quartz material and edge treatment, find discounts on remnant slabs, and look for ways to reduce fabrication and installation fees.
With some smart planning, quartz can be an affordable as well as beautiful addition to your home. And nothing beats the pride of cooking meals or getting ready each day surrounded by gorgeous, quality counters. Investing in quartz is worth the cost for years of enjoyment in your home.
FAQs About Buying and Installing Quartz Countertops
How much do quartz countertops cost for a small kitchen?
For a typical small kitchen with about 30 square feet of counter space, expect to pay $3000 to $4200 total for low to mid-range quartz countertops with simple edges and standard installation.
What thickness should I get for quartz countertops?
The standard thickness is 3 cm (1.25 inches). Go with a thicker 3-4 cm slab if you desire a more substantial look or want your counters to extend farther without support.
Can I install quartz countertops myself?
It is possible for a dedicated DIYer to install their own quartz counters, but professional fabrication and installation is strongly recommended to ensure proper support and durability.
Is it cheaper to buy quartz countertops online?
Online retailers can offer lower prices on materials, but you need to factor in shipping costs plus hiring local pros for template making, fabrication and installation. Local suppliers tend to provide better end-to-end service.
Should I get quartzite or quartz countertops?
Quartzite is a natural stone, while quartz is engineered. Quartzite can have higher prices and maintenance. Quartz resists stains, scratches and heat better long-term. Choose quartzite if you prefer natural stone beauty.
Is Caesarstone or Silestone better?
Caesarstone and Silestone are both quality brands. Caesarstone offers a bit more surface pattern variety, while Silestone provides more color options. Quality is comparable, so choose based on look and warranty terms.
What is the best edge for quartz countertops?
A standard eased or rounded edge works well for most quartz installs. It is subtle and contemporary looking. Full bullnose edges are a great choice for family-friendly spaces. Decorative edges like ogee or dupont add flair in elegant kitchens.
Can you cut on quartz countertops?
Avoid cutting directly on quartz. Always use a cutting board. While quartz resists scratches better than other natural stones, cutting can still eventually damage the surface over time.
Do quartz countertops hurt resale value?
Quartz boosts property value for resale. It provides high-end style for less cost than natural stone. Neutral colors like white quartz have the widest appeal to buyers. Follow current trends, like large islands, for the best return on investment.
Conclusion
Quartz delivers the look of natural stone coupled with extreme durability. When planning your quartz installation, carefully consider the design, color and edges you select along with any installation variables that can impact the cost. Be sure to get multiple estimates before hiring a fabricator. With smart planning and budgeting, you can have stunning new quartz countertops that stand up to years of use without breaking the bank.