How Much to Replace Countertop with Quartz

Introduction

Replacing your existing countertops with new quartz countertops can significantly update the look of your kitchen or bathroom. Quartz countertops are popular options because they are durable, easy to maintain, and come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. However, quartz is also one of the more expensive countertop materials on the market. The total cost to replace your countertops with quartz will depend on several factors.

In this detailed guide, we’ll discuss all the costs associated with replacing countertops with quartz so you can get an accurate estimate and set a realistic budget. We’ll cover the cost per square foot of the quartz slabs, any additional materials you may need, demolition and installation charges, and extras like edges and backsplashes. Read on to learn more about what goes into a quartz countertop installation project.

Cost Per Square Foot for Quartz Countertops

The biggest factor in determining the overall cost of new quartz countertops is the price per square foot of the slabs. Here are the typical price ranges you can expect:

Low end: $40-$50 per square foot
Mid-range: $55-$75 per square foot
High end: $80-$100+ per square foot

The exact price can vary based on the brand and style of quartz you choose. Some of the most popular and affordable brands include Silestone, Caesarstone, and Cambria, which are usually between $55-$75 per square foot installed. Higher-end designer brands like Pental, Viatera, and Santa Margherita can range from $80 per square foot up to over $100 per square foot.

The color and pattern of the quartz will also impact the price. More exotic styles with lots of variation and movement in the pattern tend to cost more than solid, uniform slab designs. Edges, textures, and other custom options will also increase your per square foot cost.

Always get an itemized estimate from your countertop company to understand precisely what is included in the per square foot price. The baseline cost should cover the slab itself, adhesive and other installation materials, delivery, and basic fabrication. Extra options and upgrades will add to the final price.

Demolition and Removal of Old Countertops

Before new quartz countertops can be installed, you first need to remove and dispose of your existing countertops. Demolition and removal costs typically add an extra $5-$10 per square foot to the total project cost.

Demolition involves safely removing the old countertop surface and disconnecting any attached countertop appliances. This includes:

Disconnecting the sink, faucet, garbage disposal, and any other fixtures attached to the countertop.
Detaching the countertop from the cabinet base it is adhered or otherwise connected to. This may require cutting caulk seals, grinding epoxy, or removing screws/nails.
Breaking up the countertop into manageable pieces that can be carried out and hauled away. This is typically done with a sledgehammer and pry bar.
Protecting the surrounding areas from damage during demolition.

Removal means disposing of the old countertop pieces and thoroughly cleaning up any debris left behind. Many countertop installers include an hourly rate for removal and cleanup in their estimate. You may also have to pay a separate disposal fee to have the old countertop hauled away.

New Cabinet Preparation

Once the old countertop is gone, some minor preparation work needs to be done to get the cabinets ready for new quartz countertops:

Inspecting the cabinets for any damage or issues and repairing as needed. Water damage, rot, mold, and termite damage may need to be addressed.
Sanding and cleaning the tops of the cabinet bases to remove any debris, grime, or uneven surfaces so the new countertop can sit flush.
Measuring and mapping out the cabinet layouts to determine the exact dimensions for fabricating the new quartz slabs.
Making any adjustments to cabinet bases so new countertops will fit properly. This could involve tweaking the position or height of walls, adding supports or shims, or reconfiguring plumbing or electrical cutouts.

While your installation company will handle these preparations, any repairs or adjustments needed could add $200-$1000 or more, depending on the extent of the work required. Be sure your cabinets are in good shape before starting a countertop replacement project.

Purchasing the Slabs

Once measurements are taken, it’s time to purchase the quartz slabs for your new countertops. The fabricator or installer will order the materials. Prices and lead times can vary greatly depending on the brand, color, and style you choose.

Budget $40-$50 per square foot for low-end quartz.
Expect to pay $55-$75 for mid-range, commercial quality materials.
High-end, designer brands run $80-$100+ per square foot.

Exotic patterns, unique colors, and custom designs can increase costs. Multiple slabs may be needed for larger countertop projects. Be sure to get a detailed purchase order from your countertop company outlining exactly what you are paying for materials.

It typically takes 2-4 weeks from the time you place the order for the slabs to come in. Some rare or specialty materials may take 6 weeks or longer. Keep these lead times in mind when scheduling the installation date.

Fabrication of the Slabs

Fabricating the rough quartz slabs involves precision-cutting them into your finished countertop shape. Your installer will use a CNC machine or water jet cutter to cut the quartz to the exact dimensions of your cabinet layout. The edges will also be cut and finished.

You’ll typically pay around $150-$200 per cutout for basic fabrication. Here are some of the most common additional charges you may incur:

$50-$75 per seam: For longer countertop runs that require two slabs to be seamed together.
$75-$150 per cutout: For cutouts around sinks, faucets, and appliances. The more angles and curves, the higher the cost.
$50-$150 per hole: For holes for plumbing fixtures, soap dispensers, outlets, and downdraft vents.
$25-$50 per edge profile: For edging options like bullnose, ogee, chamfer, etc. Upgrades from standard square edge.

The total fabrication costs can range from $500 for a simple layout up to $1000 or more for multiple seams, cutouts, edges, and holes. Get an itemized fabrication estimate before work begins.

Installation of the New Quartz Countertops

Installing the finished quartz countertops is the most labor-intensive and costly step in the replacement process. Most countertop installers charge between $150-$250 per hour for two workers and has a minimum hourly requirement.

Here’s what’s involved in the installation process:

Carefully transporting the fabricated slabs into the home and to the installation location.
Thoroughly cleaning the cabinet bases.
Applying adhesive to the slabs and cabinets.
Lifting and positioning the heavy countertops onto the bases. This often requires special suction cups and lifting equipment.
Pressing the countertops into place and smoothing out any bubbles in the adhesive.
Clamping the countertops for several hours while the adhesive cures fully.
Sealing seams between slabs and sealing the countertops to walls and cabinets.
Reinstalling sinks, faucets, appliances, and other fixtures.
Making any final adjustments and touch-ups to get the countertops perfectly level and secured.

Larger, more complex installations could take 14-16 hours at $200 per hour for two workers, adding $2,800-$3,200 or more to your total.

Always get an itemized estimate detailing project duration and per hour labor rates. Ask if any travel fees or minimum number of hours apply.

Backsplashes

Adding a backsplash is a great way to finish off new quartz countertops and protect the walls from splashes and spills. Your backsplash options include:

Quartz: Matching your countertop quartz for a streamlined look. $30-$50 per square foot installed.
Tile: Ceramic, porcelain, or glass backsplashes. $5-$25 per square foot installed.
Stainless steel: Hygienic and stylish option. $35-$50 per square foot installed.
Glass: For a contemporary style. $45-$80 per square foot installed.
Stone: Like granite or marble. $40-$70 per square foot installed.

Backsplashes are typically glued on once countertops are installed. Allow an extra $800-$2000 depending on size and materials. Many quartz companies offer full backsplash design services.

Sink Cutouts and Installation

If your new quartz countertops will have a sink, this adds multiple costs to factor in:

$75-$150 cutout fee: For custom cutting the hole for an undermount sink.
$250-$500 per sink: For purchasing undermount sinks to go with quartz.
$200 per hour: Typical labor rate for removing old sink, installing new sink, plumbing, and hookups.
$50-$100 in parts/supplies: For drain pipes, supply lines, connectors, seals, etc.

A sink cutout and installation could add $500 or more depending on the sink type and complexity. Make sure this is accounted for in the quote.

Total Cost to Replace Countertops with Quartz

Now that we’ve reviewed all the potential costs involved, what’s the total budget you should plan for your quartz countertop installation project? Here are some ballpark ranges:

10 linear feet of countertop: $2,500-$4,000
15 linear feet of countertop: $3,500-$6,000
20 linear feet of countertop: $4,500-$8,000
50 linear feet of countertop (large kitchen): $10,000-$18,000

These costs are for mid-range quartz prices around $55-$75 per square foot installed. Lower or higher grade materials will adjust prices down or up. More complex projects with lots of seams, edges, cutouts, and custom flourishes will also increase overall costs.

Get at least 3-4 itemized estimates from countertop installation pros before finalizing your budget. Look for deals on quartz materials at big box home stores or warehouse retailers to potentially save some costs on supplies.

Factors That Affect Quartz Countertop Cost

Many variables beyond just the size of your space impact the total investment for new quartz countertops. Be aware of these key factors that can raise costs:

1. Brand of Quartz

Low-end brands like Vicostone, MSI, Cambria start around $40 per square foot.
Middle tier products from Caesarstone, Silestone, Hanstone run $55-$75 per square foot.
High-end, luxury designers brands can be $100+ per square foot.

2. Colors and Patterns

Solid, uniform colors are most affordable.
Complex variations and movement in stone look more expensive.
Different mineral and recycled glass compositions impact cost.

3. Edge Profiles

Standard square polish edge adds little cost.
Bullnose, bevel, ogee, and special profiles cost $25-$50+ per linear foot.

4. Thickness

Standard 1 1⁄4” thickness is the most common.
Going up to 1 1⁄2” or 2” thick is pricier but more durable.

5. Backsplashes

Matching quartz, tile, or glass backsplashes add $800-$2000 typically.
Skip the backsplash to save costs. Just use caulk between countertop and wall.

6. Cutouts and Seams

Each seam between slabs is ~$50-$75.
Sink cutouts and holes for plumbing add ~$75-$150 per opening.

7. Demolition and Repairs

Count on $5-$10 per square foot to remove old countertop.
Any repairs to damaged cabinets adds more costs before install.

8. Installation Factors

Simple countertop layouts take less installation time versus complex designs.
Weekend, evening, or rush installation costs more with overtime labor rates.

9. Location and Travel

Materials pricing fluctuates based on your region.
Remote areas may incur higher travel fees for installers.

10. Contractor Reputation and Experience

Top rated countertop companies charge premium pricing in line with their expertise and professionalism.
Newer contractors tend to offer lower bids.

How to Get the Best Deal on Quartz Countertop Installation

Here are some tips to help control costs and get the most value from your quartz countertop investment:

Get multiple bids: Getting 3-4 quotes lets you compare pricing between countertop companies.
Supply your own materials: Buying the slabs yourself through a big box store cuts out markup. But you’ll also lose any warranty the fabricator provides.
Ask about deals: Many companies offer periodic discounts, especially during slower seasons.
Avoid extras: Skip fancy edges and backsplashes to reduce square foot pricing.
Standard edge and thickness: These are the most affordable options.
Minimize seams: Optimize layout to reduce the number of seams between slabs.
Smaller sink: A compact sink requires a smaller cutout, reducing fabrication fees.
DIY demo and disposal: Doing the tear-out of old countertops yourself saves $5-$10 per square foot typically.
Schedule install efficiently: Clustering multiple jobs per day reduces travel costs for installers.
Pay attention to details: Review all estimates closely and understand what is included. Don’t get surprised by hidden fees.
Ask about payment terms: Some companies offer better rates for paying in full upfront versus financing over time.

Hiring a qualified pro that specializes in quartz countertop installation is highly recommended to get the best results. With some smart shopping tactics and careful project management, you can get high-end quartz countertops within your budget.

FAQ About Installing Quartz Countertops

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about quartz countertop installation:

How long does it take to replace countertops with quartz?

The entire process takes 2-4 weeks typically. Timeline includes:

Demolition: 1-2 days
Measurements and slab order: 1 week
Fabrication: 1 week
Installation: 1-2 days

Factor in longer lead times for specialty quartz materials.

Can I install quartz countertops myself?

It is possible for a committed DIYer to self-install quartz countertops. But it’s a very challenging project requiring great precision. Hiring a pro is highly recommended unless you have remodeling experience.

Does quartz need to be sealed?

No, quartz does not require regular sealing like natural stone. Occasional cleaning with soap and water is all that is needed. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could dull the finish.

What thickness quartz should I get?

1 1⁄4” is standard. Go 1 1⁄2” or 2” thick for a sturdier feel, especially on floors or outdoor installations. Thicker quartz costs $10-$15 more per square foot typically.

Should I get an integrated sink with quartz countertops?

Undermount sinks are preferable with quartz to create a seamless look. Integrated / vessel sinks also work but may make replacing the sink itself more challenging down the road.

How to clean and maintain quartz countertops?

For routine cleaning, use a soft sponge or cloth with mild soap and warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals and acidic cleaners that can etch the surface. Blot up spills quickly to prevent stains.

Conclusion

Installing new quartz countertops gives your kitchen or bath a durable, eye-catching upgrade. Costs typically range from $2,500 to over $10,000 depending on the size of your space and materials selected. Get multiple estimates to find the best value on high-quality quartz. With proper planning and smart budgeting, you can enjoy stunning quartz countertops that add value and style to your home.