Installing quartz countertops can significantly upgrade the look and feel of your kitchen or bathroom. However, quartz is an investment, so it’s important to understand the costs involved before embarking on your project. Here’s a detailed overview of how much you can expect to pay for quartz countertop installation.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes called engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with polyresin. This mixture is molded into slabs and reinforced with polymer resins. The result is a durable, non-porous and stain-resistant surface that requires little maintenance.
Quartz comes in a wide array of colors and patterns to suit any design aesthetic. Popular brands of quartz include Caesarstone, Cambria and Silestone. Quartz offers an upscale look for less cost than natural stone.
Factors That Impact Quartz Countertop Costs
Several factors determine your total quartz countertop installation costs:
- Quartz slab cost – Prices range from $50-$100 per square foot
- Edge treatments – Basic edge is included, special edging adds $10-$30 per linear foot
- Surface area – Total countertop square footage required
- Labor – Installation work involved
- Sink cutouts – Special cutouts for an undermount sink add $100-$200
- Backsplash – Quartz or tile backsplash adds $10-$30 per square foot
- Demo and disposal – Of old countertop removal if needed
Below we break down the typical price range for a quartz countertop installation.
Typical Price to Install Quartz Countertops
For a typical 30 square foot kitchen with minimal customization, expect to pay:
- Quartz slab: $50 per sq. ft x 30 sq.ft = $1,500
- Basic edge: Included
- Cutouts: $100 sink cutout
- Installation labor: $50 per hour x 10 hours = $500
- Total: Approximately $2,100
The total can range from $1,500 on the low end to $4,500 on the high end for a larger or more complex project.
Factors That Increase Your Quartz Installation Cost
Several factors can significantly increase your quartz installation costs:
- Premium quartz slabs – Premium branded quartz like Caesarstone can cost $70-$120 per sq.ft
- Thicker quartz – Going from 2cm to 3cm thick adds $10-$15 per sq.ft
- Specialty edges – Beveled, ogee & other edges add $10-$30 per linear foot
- More surface area – More countertop square footage equals higher cost
- Complex job – Intricate layouts, seams and details add labor time
- Tier 1 locations – Installation in New York, San Francisco or other major cities
- Designer finishes – Polished finishes can increase cost $10-$15 per sq.ft
Going with more expensive options for edge profiles, thickness, polish levels, and premium brands will raise your total quartz countertop installation price.
Lower-Cost Quartz Countertop Options
There are a few ways to reduce your total spend on quartz:
- Go with lower-priced quartz slabs in the $50-$60 per square foot range
- Choose a basic edge profile rather than decorative edges
- Use a less expensive installer rather than a premium fabricator
- Opt for a smaller quartz island rather than full surface coverage
- Install quartz on only part of the countertop run rather than the entire surface area
DIY vs Hiring a Pro: Quartz Installation
Is installing quartz countertops a DIY project? Quartz requires specialty tools for cutting, so DIY installation is not recommended. Here is a comparison of DIY vs hiring a professional:
DIY Quartz Install
- Saves on labor costs
- Requires rental of wet saw ($75-$100 per day)
- Mistakes are costly; quartz slabs are expensive
- Improper installation can damage quartz
- DIY sink & cooktop cutouts are challenging
Hiring a Pro
- No equipment rental required
- Precise fabrication & installation expertise
- Professional handles all cutouts & details
- Installer handles repairs if needed
- Warranty protection through installer
Unless you are very experienced with construction projects, quartz installation is best left to the professionals. Hiring a fabricator helps ensure your countertops are cut and installed correctly.
Quartz Countertop Installation Step-by-Step
Installing quartz countertops is a multi-step process best handled by a professional fabricator:
- Tear out – Remove old countertop if needed
- Measure – Take exact measurements of the space
- Template – Create a template to follow for cutting slabs
- Fabricate slabs – Cut slabs to specifications
- Cut sink openings – Cut space for sink basin & fixtures
- Install – Adhere slabs securely using adhesive
- Seal seams – Fill any seams for smooth finish
- Inspect & clean up – Verify proper installation
Hiring a pro ensures this process goes smoothly, with no cracked slabs or uneven seams.
FAQs About Quartz Countertop Installation
How long does it take to install quartz countertops?
Most professional installers can complete the job in 1-2 days. Total time depends on the size of the space and any custom details.
Can quartz countertops be installed over existing countertops?
Quartz cannot be installed over laminate or other materials. The old countertop surface must be removed first to provide a clean foundation.
Should I be home during quartz installation?
It’s a good idea to be home during key stages like sink cutout and final install to inspect the work. However, you do not need to be home the entire time.
How thick should quartz countertops be?
The standard thickness is 2cm, or just under 1 inch. 3cm, or around 1.25 inches, provides extra durability for heavily used surfaces.
How long do quartz countertops last?
With proper care, quartz countertops can last upwards of 15-20 years before needing replacement. This makes them a long-term investment.
Key Takeaways: Quartz Countertop Installation Cost
- Expect to pay $2,000-$4,000 to install quartz in a typical 30 sq.ft. kitchen
- Actual costs vary based on slab prices, edges, surface area and custom details
- Premium quartz, decorative edges and thicker slabs increase price
- DIY installation is challenging – hiring a pro is recommended
- Process includes templating, fabricating, cutouts and seamless install
- Investment in quartz countertops can last 15-20 years with proper care
Installing new quartz countertops is a significant investment that can completely transform the look of your kitchen or bath. Understanding what impacts the total costs allows you to budget appropriately and get the high-end results you want. Hiring professional installers experienced in working with quartz ensures your countertops are perfectly fabricated and installed. With a gorgeously renewed space, you’ll enjoy the durability and visual appeal of quartz countertops for years to come.