Quartz countertops have become one of the most popular countertop options for kitchen and bathroom remodels in recent years. With their durability, low maintenance, and wide variety of colors and patterns, it’s easy to see why. However, like most home improvements, cost is often a key factor in the decision making process. Here is an overview of what impacts the cost of quartz countertops and what you can expect to budget for them.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz content typically makes up 90% or more of the material. Unlike natural stone countertops like granite and marble, quartz is non-porous, so it does not need to be regularly sealed. It’s also harder and more scratch resistant than other natural stone options.
Cost Factors for Quartz Countertops
Several variables impact the total cost of quartz countertops for your kitchen or bath remodel. Key factors include:
Brand
There are many manufacturers of quartz countertops, and some charge a premium for their products. Brands like Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone tend to cost more than less known brands. Prices can range from as low as $45 per square foot up to $100 per square foot or more from high-end designer brands.
Color and Pattern
Quartz offers a wide array of colors, from solid white to bold blues, grays, browns and more. Patterns like veining and aggregates are also available to mimic natural stone. More unique colors and patterns tend to add more to the cost than standard choices.
Edges
The edges of your countertops – whether straight, beveled, ogee, or decorative – impact the installation work needed and price. Fancier edges like bevels, ogees, and molded edges cost more to fabricate and install.
Thickness
Most quartz is either 3/4″ or 1 1/4″ thick. Thicker quartz tops add more material costs but also provide more durability.
Installation
Professional countertop installation also adds cost, varying based on complexity factors like seam placement, cutouts for sinks, radius edges, and more. Most installation costs range from $40 – $100 per hour.
Additional Custom Options
Some other custom options like backsplashes, integrated sinks, special cutouts, and added structural support can drive up costs as well.
Average Cost for Quartz Countertops
Taking all the potential variables into account, the average total cost for quartz countertops ranges from $70 – $120 per square foot installed. This factors in a mid-range quartz material at about $50-$80 per square foot plus average installation costs.
For a typical 25 square foot countertop area in a small to medium kitchen, you can expect to pay in the range of $1,750 – $3,000 for installed quartz tops. Larger or more complex projects will fall at the higher end of the spectrum, while smaller and simpler installations will be more affordable.
Cost Comparison to Other Countertop Materials
To put the cost of quartz countertops into perspective, here is how they compare to other popular options:
- Laminate – $20-50 per sq. ft. installed
- Butcher block – $40-100 per sq. ft. installed
- Tile – $10-50 per sq. ft. for materials, plus installation
- Granite – $60-150 per sq. ft. installed
- Marble – $70-200 per sq. ft. installed
- Quartz – $70-120 per sq. ft. installed
While not the cheapest option, quartz offers significant advantages in durability and maintenance over lower cost choices like laminate and tile. And it is comparable in cost to higher-end options like granite and marble that require more maintenance.
Factors That May Increase Costs
In some situations, your total quartz countertop costs may exceed the typical ranges noted here. Factors that can result in a higher investment include:
- Custom or premium edge details like double edge, full bullnose, or hand-carved edges
- Full backsplashes and other secondary installations
- Intricate special designs, inlays, corbels or other decorative elements
- Rare or exclusive colors and patterns from luxury brands
- Remote location from fabricators, increasing template and installation costs
- Rush or expedited fabrication and installation fees
How to Get the Best Value
To balance getting the look you want while staying on budget, consider these tips:
- Choose a mid-range brand over premium high-end names
- Select a simple edge style like eased or mini-beveled
- Look for specials on stock materials or discontinued colors
- Size your surfaces efficiently to minimize seams
- Get quotes from 3-5 fabricators to compare pricing
- Avoid extra thicknesses unless truly needed
- Opt for simple solid white or neutral colors
Are Quartz Countertops Worth the Investment?
While quartz countertops are more expensive than options like granite or marble, most homeowners find them to be a worthwhile investment. Their superior durability, stain resistance, and low maintenance requirements make them an ideal choice for busy kitchens. The range of colors, patterns, and styles available can provide a custom high-end look as well.
For home chefs and families, quartz offers an ideal combination of beauty, functionality, and long-term value. Properly installed, they can last for decades with minimal upkeep required. That peace of mind is worth the higher initial costs for many homeowners.
The Bottom Line
When budgeting for new quartz countertops, you can expect to pay in the range of $70 – $120 per square foot installed. For most mid-sized kitchens this results in total project costs of $1,500 to $3,000, which makes quartz an investment comparable to other high-end natural stone options. While not cheap, for the right homeowner quartz can be a worthwhile remodel upgrade that adds beauty and practicality for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I expect to budget for new quartz countertops in my kitchen?
For the typical kitchen with around 25 square feet of countertop space, expect to pay $1,750 – $3,000+ for nice quality, professionally installed quartz countertops. High-end designer materials can easily exceed $5,000+.
What factors make quartz more expensive?
Premium brands, exotic colors and patterns, thicknesses over 1 1/4″, intricate edge profiles, and additional customized elements drive up quartz costs. Simple white or neutral solid colors tend to be most affordable.
Is it worth paying more for a high-end quartz brand?
The brand reputation and marketing cache of premium names like Caesarstone and Cambria come at a price. While excellent products, comparable durability and aesthetics are often available from less known brands at significant cost savings of 25% or more.
Should I also budget for a backsplash?
A quartz backsplash can add $10-30 per linear foot in additional costs. Many opt to use a less expensive option like ceramic tile instead. Backsplashes can usually be done later as your budget allows.
Can I install quartz countertops myself?
Quartz countertop installation is best left to experienced professionals due to the precise cutting needed. The finished seams and edges make a big difference in the final look.