Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects in recent years. Known for their durability, low maintenance, and customizability, many homeowners are curious what the typical cost per square foot is for a quartz countertop installation. Here is a comprehensive overview of the factors that impact quartz countertop pricing and what you can expect to budget for your project.
Average Cost Per Square Foot for Quartz Countertops
The cost of quartz countertops ranges from $50 to $120 per square foot installed. This estimate includes materials, labor, edge treatments, and more. The national average cost is around $75 per square foot.
Several factors go into determining the final price:
- Quartz slab price – Slab cost ranges from $40 to $100 per square foot. Higher-end brands like Caesarstone can be up to $125 per square foot.
- Edge treatments – Basic square edging is included in slab price. Beveled, ogee, or decorative edges add $5 to $15 per linear foot.
- Thickness – Standard thickness is 3/4″. Going up to 1 1/2″ thick costs $10 to $15 more per square foot.
- Fabrication – Cutting and installing averages $40 to $70 per square foot. Complex designs or extra finishing raises prices.
- Countertop size – Bigger countertop sizes get discounts per square foot. Smaller custom pieces cost more overall.
- Installation – Charges range from $40 to $100 per hour. Simple flat counter installations take less time than custom work.
- Location – Prices are higher in areas like New York City or San Francisco than smaller towns and rural areas.
Factors That Impact Quartz Countertop Pricing
Beyond the base cost of materials and labor, several other factors raise or lower the total price of quartz countertops.
Quartz Brand
Quartz pricing varies widely between brands. Budget-friendly options like MSI quartz start around $50 per square foot. High-end designers like Cambria and Caesarstone charge up to $120 per square foot.
Higher prices come from unique designs, patterns, warranties, and brand reputation. However, even mid-range brands like Silestone provide excellent performance and lifetime warranties.
Color and Pattern
Plain white or solid color quartz is the most affordable option. Dramatic patterns, bold colors, and variability across the slabs cost more. For example, blues and grays are popular but pricier than whites.
Edge Profiles
Fancy edge treatments like beveled, chamfered, or ogee edges look amazing but add $5 to $15 per linear foot to the overall price. Multiple tiers or complex edges cost even more.
Thickness
Most quartz is 3/4″ thick, with 1 1/4″ for island overhangs. Going up to 1 1/2″ thickness provides heft but adds about $10-15 more per square foot.
Fabrication Costs
Straight slab installations are simple. But details like cutouts for sinks, built-in soap dispensers, or cooking surface cutouts require expert fabrication and costs more.
Installation Labor
For customers providing their own slabs, installation prices range from $40 to $100 per hour depending on local rates and complexity. Simpler countertop swaps take less time than custom work.
Countertop Size
Bigger quartz countertop sizes get discounts per square foot while small custom pieces costs more overall. Ask your fabricator about deals on large surfaces.
Location
Like real estate, quartz countertop prices are heavily dependent on your location. Major metro areas have the highest rates while rural areas are more affordable. Shopping local home improvement stores can also save costs.
Cost to Install Quartz Countertops Per Square Foot
Here is a typical per square foot price breakdown for a mid-range quartz countertop installation:
- Silestone quartz slabs: $70 per sq. ft.
- Edge treatment: $8 per linear ft.
- Fabrication: $50 per sq. ft.
- Installation: $100 per hour
- Total: Around $75 per square foot
As you can see, the combined material, labor, and finishing costs add up. For a typical 25 sq. ft. kitchen countertop, expect to pay around $1,875 for a complete Silestone quartz installation.
How Thickness Impacts Quartz Countertop Prices
Quartz comes in 1/4″, 3/4”, 1 1/4”, and 1 1/2” thickness options. But 3/4” is industry standard for horizontal surfaces. Increasing to 1 1/4” on bar overhangs or 1 1/2” for sturdiness costs $10-15 more per square foot.
Thicker quartz is great for busy kitchens since it’s less prone to cracks or damage. But not totally necessary for most homes.
Here are sample installed price ranges for different thicknesses using a mid-range quartz:
- 1/4” thickness: $55 to $65 per sq.ft.
- 3/4” thickness: $70 to $80 per sq.ft.
- 1 1/4” thickness: $80 to $90 per sq.ft.
- 1 1/2” thickness: $90 to $100 per sq.ft.
Cost to Install Quartz Countertops by Type
Quartz countertop installation prices also vary based on the type needed:
- Kitchen countertops: $70-$100 per sq.ft. installed
- Bathroom vanities: $50-$70 per sq.ft. installed
- Backsplashes: $10-$30 per sq.ft. installed
- Islands: $100-$150 per sq.ft. installed
- Outdoor: $75-$110 per sq.ft. installed
Islands and longer kitchen counters often cost more due to the increased fabrication and installation work needed. Bathrooms are simpler and more affordable.
DIY Quartz Countertop Costs
Curious if you can save money with a DIY quartz install? The slab costs will be cheaper, but professional-quality fabrication and installation is difficult for non-experts. Mistakes also waste expensive quartz material.
Here’s a realistic DIY budget:
- Quartz slabs: $50 per sq.ft.
- Adhesive, supplies, tools: $300
- Fabrication kit rental: $100
- Total: Around $55 per sq.ft.
This saves around $20 per square foot but has more risks and uncertainty. For most homeowners, hiring a pro for just fabrication and install is worth the extra cost.
Factors That Lower Quartz Countertop Prices
While many factors increase prices, there are some ways to get more affordable quartz:
- Choose a budget-friendly brand like MSI over premium options
- Opt for basic square edge instead of decorative edges
- Use a consistent white or solid color vs. bold patterns
- Install during the slow season rather than peak summer months
- Provide your own quartz slabs purchased at discount
- Keep shapes simple without too many seams or cutouts
- Get quotes from multiple fabricators and installers to compare
- Use quartz on small spaces like bathrooms instead of larger kitchens
Being flexible on brands, timing, and keeping the design straightforward can yield savings. But don’t skimp too much on quality.
The Average Cost of Quartz Countertops: Key Takeaways
- Expect to pay $50 to $120 per square foot for installed quartz countertops. The national average cost is around $75 per square foot.
- Prices vary based on brand, color/pattern, edge treatments, thickness, fabrication complexity, installation labor, location, and more.
- Kitchen quartz often costs $70-$100 per square foot installed. Bathrooms are $50-$70 per square foot.
- Increasing quartz thickness from 3/4” to 1 1/2” adds $10-$15 per square foot.
- Hiring a professional for fabrication and installation avoids DIY mistakes and usually looks better.
- Ask for quotes from several shops to compare pricing. Select a mid-range brand and simple design to save on costs.
With an average lifespan of 15-25 years and excellent durability, quartz delivers lasting value and beauty for your home. Proper planning and budgeting ensures you get the look you want at a fair and competitive installation price.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Quartz Countertop Pricing:
How Much Does Lowes Charge To Install Quartz Countertops?
Lowes charges around $69 per square foot for quartz countertop installation. This includes a mid-level MSI quartz, fabrication, and professional installation. Higher-end materials from brands like Caesarstone are also available.
What Is More Expensive Quartz Or Granite?
Quartz is generally more expensive than granite. Quartz averages $75 per square foot installed. Granite ranges from $50 to $70 per square foot installed. However, high-end exotic granites can be costlier than inexpensive quartz options.
Is Lowes Or Home Depot Cheaper For Quartz Countertops?
Home Depot and Lowes charge similar prices for quartz countertops, averaging $70-$80 per square foot installed. Exact pricing varies locally, so get quotes from fabricators at both stores to compare. Home Depot partners with brands like Silestone while Lowes offers MSI quartz.
How Much Does It Cost To Install A Quartz Backsplash?
Quartz backsplashes cost $10 to $30 per square foot installed. Full backsplashes are cheaper per square foot than small niche backsplashes. The cost covers the quartz slab materials and professional fabrication/installation labor.
How Long Does Quartz Countertop Installation Take?
A typical quartz countertop installation takes 1-3 days from start to finish. Fabricators need up to 1 day to template and cut the slabs. Installation then takes 1-2 days depending on the size. Total downtime is usually less than 3 days.
Conclusion
With the average cost to install quartz countertops ranging from $50 to $120 per square foot, setting a realistic budget is an essential early step for any kitchen or bath remodel. Prices vary depending on your desired colors, patterns, thickness, and edge treatments. While quartz is more expensive than materials like granite or laminate, its durability and longevity deliver lasting value over time. Carefully comparing product options and installer quotes will help homeowners balance cost, quality, and design when installing beautiful quartz countertops.