When it comes to choosing countertops for your kitchen or bathroom, two popular options are butcher block and quartz. Both offer durability and good looks, but they vary in terms of pricing. Here is an in-depth comparison of butcher block vs quartz countertops to help you determine which is the more budget-friendly choice.
What is Butcher Block?
Butcher block countertops are made from hardwood glued and pressed together in strips. The most common woods used are maple, walnut, cherry, and oak. Butcher block offers a striated, linear look that brings warmth and texture to any space.
Some key features of butcher block include:
- Durable and scratch-resistant surface
- Easily repaired and refinished
- Available in wide range of stains and finishes
- Needs regular oiling to maintain water resistance
- Susceptible to stains from acidic foods
- Can be used as a cutting surface
Butcher block can be purchased either as a prefabricated countertop or custom-made to your specifications. Prefabricated options tend to be the more affordable route.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops are engineered stone made from quartz particles blended with resin and pigments. The result is a non-porous, hard surface known for its durability and visual appeal.
Some notable qualities of quartz countertops:
- Highly resistant to scratches, heat, and stains
- Low maintenance with no sealing required
- Wide variety of colors and patterns
- Non-porous so does not require sealing
- Resists bacteria growth
- Can have pure quartz or quartz/stone mix
- Seamless look for custom installations
Quartz slabs must be cut to size and professionally installed as a custom countertop. This makes it a pricier installed option than prefab butcher block.
Cost Comparison
When considering just material prices, butcher block is generally the more affordable option. Pricing can vary widely based on type of wood, thickness, and finishing treatment. But on average, expect to pay:
- $20 – $50 per square foot for butcher block countertops
- $80 – $120 per square foot for quartz countertops
However, you also have to account for installation and edging costs for both options. When factoring these in, here are typical overall installed prices:
- Total installed cost for butcher block – $40 – $100 per square foot
- Total installed cost for quartz – $100 – $200 per square foot
Quartz requires precision cutting and professional installation to achieve a seamless look. Butcher block can be installed as a DIY project if you are reasonably handy. Going the DIY route will save on labor costs.
Other factors that affect pricing are thickness, edges, backsplashes, and special treatments like distressing. Unique wood types like black walnut or domestic oak can also drive up costs for butcher block. Oversize pieces, intricate edge profiles, and backsplashes will increase overall quartz pricing.
Bottom Line
When considering just the countertop material itself, butcher block is generally cheaper than quartz. But once installation and edging are factored in, quartz usually ends up being the pricier option overall.
There are ways to get butcher block counters installed for under $100 per square foot. Most quartz installs will run you over $100 per square foot when all is said and done.
But price shouldn’t be the only deciding factor. Be sure to also consider performance factors like stain resistance, durability, and maintenance requirements when choosing between quartz and butcher block. But if budget is your main concern, butcher block certainly gives you more bang for your buck.
Butcher Block vs Quartz: Pros and Cons
To summarize the key differences, here are the major pros and cons of each material:
Butcher Block Pros
- Cost effective material and installation
- Elegant, natural wood look
- Provides good surface for food prep
- Repairable and refinishable
- Wide range of edge profile options
- Can install yourself to save costs
Butcher Block Cons
- Prone to scratches and dents
- Needs frequent oiling and sealing
- Not heat or stain resistant
- Susceptible to warping and cracking
Quartz Pros
- Highly durable and low maintenance
- Resists stains, scratches, and heat
- Wide variety of colors and patterns
- Seamless custom installation
- More hygienic non-porous surface
Quartz Cons
- More expensive material and installation
- Limited edge profile options
- No do-it-yourself option
- Can crack if unsupported
- Resurfacing not possible
FAQs
Is butcher block cheaper than quartz?
Yes, butcher block is generally cheaper overall than quartz when you factor in both material and installation costs. Prefabricated butcher block options can be installed yourself, saving on labor costs versus quartz that requires professional installation.
How much does butcher block cost compared to quartz?
Butcher block costs $20 – $50 per square foot just for materials, while quartz slabs range from $80 – $120 per square foot. Total installed costs for butcher block are typically $40 – $100 per square foot compared to $100 – $200 per square foot for installed quartz.
Is butcher block or quartz better?
They both have pros and cons. Butcher block offers a timeless, natural look and is very budget-friendly. But quartz is much more durable, stain-resistant, and lower maintenance. Quartz works best for busy kitchens prone to spills and stains. Butcher block brings warmth and charm to more lightly used spaces.
Does butcher block need to be sealed?
Yes. To prevent water damage and staining, butcher block must be regularly sealed with an FDA-approved sealing oil. Quartz does not require any sealing or treatment after installation.
Is butcher block high maintenance?
Butcher block requires more regular maintenance than quartz. It needs frequent oiling, sealing, and periodic sanding and refinishing to keep it looking its best. Quartz is nearly maintenance-free aside from cleaning.
Is butcher block sanitary?
With proper sealing and maintenance, butcher block can provide a sanitary surface. But quartz is more hygienic since it is non-porous and resists bacteria growth. Butcher block requires more meticulous care to prevent issues with bacteria.
Conclusion
Butcher block and quartz both make excellent countertop materials, but have very different qualities and price points. If your budget is limited or you want a DIY-friendly option, butcher block is the clear value choice. It offers charm and functionality at a very reasonable cost.
But for a low maintenance, durable surface that can withstand heavy use, quartz counters are worth the higher investment. If longevity and hassle-free cleaning are your main aims, quartz will serve you well despite the higher initial price tag. Carefully weigh your needs, budget, and style preferences when picking the right countertop to suit your space.