Quartz and Silestone are two of the most popular engineered stone countertop materials on the market today. Many homeowners find themselves trying to decide between quartz vs Silestone when choosing new countertops. An important consideration for most buyers is cost. So is quartz actually more expensive than Silestone?
An Overview of Quartz and Silestone
Before comparing prices, it helps to understand what quartz and Silestone countertops are made of.
Quartz countertops are engineered stone slabs created from crushed quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz provides strength and durability, while the resins bind the material together. Quartz counters are non-porous, scratch-resistant, and do not require sealing.
Silestone is a branded quartz surface produced by the Cosentino company. It contains over 90% natural quartz but also includes recycled materials like glass, mirror chips, and more for visual interest. Silestone requires little maintenance and resists stains, scratches, and heat.
So Silestone is actually a type of quartz countertop. Both offer similar benefits like durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance. But there are some differences between the two when it comes to pricing.
Quartz Countertop Price Range
On average, quartz countertops range from $75 to $140 per square foot installed. Here are some factors that affect the cost:
- Brand name – Well-known brands like Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone are pricier than generic quartz.
- Color and pattern – Basic white or light quartz is the least expensive option. Unique colors and bold patterns cost more.
- Thickness – Standard 2 cm slabs are budget-friendly. Thicker 3 cm options are more sturdy and expensive.
- Edge treatments – Decorative edges like ogee or bullnose add labor and material costs.
- Installation – Hiring a professional to cut and install the counters adds $40-$100 per square foot.
Overall, expect to pay $3,000 to $5,500 to outfit the average kitchen with quartz countertops. Higher-end materials and complex installations quickly increase the price into the $10,000+ range.
Silestone Pricing Factors
Silestone, as a leading quartz brand, sits at the higher end of the market. Silestone countertops typically range from $100 to $250 per square foot installed. Cost factors include:
- Color and finish – Unique colors like emerald or gray cost more than white Silestone. Polished finishes are pricier than suede.
- Thickness – Standard 2 cm runs $100-$150 per square foot. Thicker 3 cm is $150-$200 per square foot.
- Edge profile – Eased or beveled edges add $10-$15 per linear foot. Decorative edges run $25-$50 per linear foot.
- Installation – Professional fabrication and installation ranges from $40-$100 per square foot.
In total, expect to invest $5,000 to $12,000 to outfit a medium-sized kitchen with Silestone countertops. Custom edges, colors, and fabrication can send costs to $20,000 or more.
Is Quartz More Expensive Than Silestone?
When comparing typical price ranges, Silestone is generally 20% to 50% more expensive than generic quartz countertops. As a premium brand, Silestone costs $25 to $100+ more per square foot than many budget-friendly quartz options.
However, there are some cases where Silestone is competitively priced or even cheaper than other high-end quartz:
- Silestone’s basic colors and textures become affordable at $100 per square foot.
- Special sales or promotions can make Silestone less expensive than boutique quartz brands.
- Homeowners may get better Silestone pricing from Cosentino-authorized dealers.
- DIY installation of Silestone using remnant slabs drives down costs.
While Silestone is one of the priciest quartz products, it offers unique aesthetics and brand recognition. With smart shopping, its cost can be on par with mid-range to high-end quartz counters. But on the whole, quartz usually costs less than Silestone per square foot.
Factors That Impact Overall Cost
Looking past per square foot pricing, the total cost of new countertops depends on:
- Kitchen size – Larger kitchens require more material and labor.
- Layout complexity – Angled corners, edges, and cutouts add fabrication time.
- Demolition – Removing old countertops adds $2-$6 per square foot.
- Finishing – Extra charges for sinks, faucets, tiles, etc.
- Location – Prices are higher in major metro areas.
When estimating a total budget, include all these additional costs before deciding between quartz vs Silestone based on price alone.
Is the Extra Cost of Silestone Worth It?
Silestone is one of the most coveted engineered stone countertop brands. Paying more gives homeowners:
- Exclusive styles – Silestone offers unique, premium colors and patterns.
- Quality assurance – Rigorous production standards ensure lasting beauty and performance.
- Strong warranty – Silestone has a lifetime limited warranty and stellar customer service.
- Prestige – The Silestone brand carries clout for luxury homes and gourmet kitchens.
- Resale value – Upscale Silestone counters can yield a higher home sale price.
With its cachet and reputation, Silestone lets homeowners make a design statement. For many, the added cost is justified by superior service, style, and status.
Should You Choose Quartz or Silestone?
If budget is your main concern, quartz likely offers more value. However, don’t sacrifice quality just to save money. An inferior installation could diminish your home’s value.
For distinctive high-end style, Silestone is hard to beat. The unique colors and textures make it a focal point. If you can afford the premium pricing, Silestone boosts aesthetic appeal.
When deciding between the two, weigh factors like cost, appearance, longevity, and brand reputation. Consider quartz and Silestone samples to compare quality firsthand. With both offering stunning options, your personal preferences should drive the decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Silestone more expensive than Caesarstone?
Caesarstone and Silestone occupy a similar tier of premium engineered stone. Silestone costs $25-$50 more per square foot on average. Unique Silestone colors and patterns can be much pricier than Caesarstone.
How long do quartz countertops last compared to Silestone?
With proper care, quartz and Silestone counters last a very long time – over 20 years in most cases. Silestone offers a lifetime limited warranty. While quartz has a shorter 10-15 year warranty, its durability is on par with Silestone when maintained properly.
Can Silestone get wet?
Yes, Silestone is non-porous and waterproof. Liquids will bead up and sit on the surface rather than absorbing into the material. This makes Silestone very stain resistant and ideal for kitchens.
Is Silestone worth the extra money?
For many homeowners, yes – Silestone offers exclusive colors, patterns, and an industry-leading brand reputation. If your budget allows, Silestone can provide added resale value and luxury appeal over generic quartz.
Does quartz deteriorate over time?
When properly sealed and cleaned, quartz maintains its original appearance for many years. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could damage the finish. But quartz will not deteriorate like natural stone and retains its durability.
The Bottom Line
While Silestone costs more than many quartz options, its reputation for quality and service justifies the investment for many homeowners. But quartz counters offer an attractive, durable option at lower price points. Consider your budget, kitchen aesthetic, and lifestyle when choosing between these two excellent countertop materials.