Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects in recent years. Often touted for their durability, low maintenance, and sleek appearance, quartz offers homeowners a stylish and practical alternative to natural stone or laminate. However, quartz is also one of the more expensive countertop materials on the market. So what exactly does a good quality quartz countertop cost? Here is an overview of the factors that impact the price of quartz countertops and what you can expect to budget for a quality installation.
What is Quartz?
Before diving into costs, it helps to understand exactly what quartz countertops are. Quartz is an engineered stone made from crushed quartz particles combined with resin and pigments. The quartz provides strength and hardness, while the resin binds the material together into slabs. The pigments add color and pattern variation.
The result is a durable, non-porous surface that resists scratches, stains, and heat. Unlike natural stone, quartz does not need to be regularly sealed. And its non-porous nature makes it very hygienic. The material is also available in a wide range of colors and patterns to suit any design aesthetic.
Factors That Impact Quartz Countertop Costs
Several factors go into determining the overall investment for quartz countertops. Here are some of the key considerations:
Brand
There are both premium and budget quartz brands on the market. Higher-end manufacturers like Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone charge more for their products. The premium brands tout high-quality materials, intricate patterns, and eco-friendly manufacturing processes to justify their prices. Budget brands like Vicostone and MSI offer a more affordable product. While lacking some of the premium features, their quartz still provides an attractive and durable option.
Color and Pattern
Quartz slabs come in a vast array of colors and patterns. Simple solid color slabs tend to be the most affordable options. Multi-colored slabs with realistic patterns like marble and granite carry a higher price tag. Metallic and glass flecked slabs are also priced at the higher end of the quartz spectrum. Choosing a slab with an intricate, multi-colored pattern will increase the overall cost.
Thickness
Quartz slabs typically come in 3/4 inch and 1 1/4 inch thicknesses. Thinner 3/4 inch material is often used for vertical applications like backsplashes. The thicker 1 1/4 inch slabs provide enhanced durability and are needed for kitchen counters to provide ample support. The thicker material comes at a bit of a premium.
Edge Profiles
The edge of the countertop – often referred to as the edge profile – can impact costs as well. A standard 90-degree corner is the most affordable edge style. More ornate edges like ogee, bevel, and eased incorporate additional fabrication time and increase the price.
Fabrication & Installation
Having your quartz countertop professionally fabricated and installed is a significant portion of the overall investment. The size of the job, complexity of fabrication needed, and fees charged by the fabricator/installer all factor into the costs. Larger kitchens with multiple seams and cutouts will be pricier than a simple bathroom vanity top.
Cost Ranges for Quartz Countertops
Taking all these factors into account, here are some typical price ranges you can expect for good quality quartz countertops:
- Quartz material cost per square foot – $50 to $100+
- Fabrication & Installation cost per square foot – $80 to $150
- Total per square foot – $130 to $250+
- Total Cost for 30 Square Foot Kitchen – $3,900 to $7,500
As you can see, there is quite a range in terms of what good quartz could cost. The price depends largely on the factors discussed above. In general, expect to invest $100 to $150 per square foot for mid-to-high end quartz with professional fabrication and installation. Higher-end materials, intricate edges, and more complex installations may fall above $200 per square foot.
More budget-friendly options with simple edges and standard patterns can potentially be sourced for $130 or less per square foot. Keep in mind – cheaper does not always mean better when it comes to quartz. Paying for an excellent installer and high-quality materials is worth the investment.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Quartz
Here are some tips to select the best quartz countertops while keeping costs in check:
- Set a realistic budget – Determine what you can afford to invest before falling in love with premium options outside your budget.
- Pick a quality fabricator – An experienced professional installer is key to getting results you’ll love. Don’t cut corners here.
- Select a timeless color – While intricate patterns are eye-catching, they may fall out of style. Consider a simple neutral for longevity.
- Choose the thicker slab – Go with 1 1/4 thickness for the most durable and structurally sound counters.
- Consider an eased edge – For a clean, modern look that won’t break the bank, go for a simple eased edge profile.
- Measure accurately – Precise measurements ensure you don’t over order materials and incur unnecessary costs.
FAQs about Quartz Countertops Costs
What is the average cost for quartz countertops?
The average cost for quartz countertops falls between $80-$120 per square foot installed. This assumes mid-range materials, standard fabrication, and a professional installer. High-end quartz with premium features and fabrication can be over $200/square foot.
Is quartz more expensive than granite?
In most cases, quartz runs $10-$20 more per square foot than natural granite. The price differential is due to quartz being an engineered product that must go through more processing. However, granite requires regular sealing which adds long-term maintenance costs.
Should I buy prefabricated or custom quartz?
Prefabricated quartz costs a bit less, but offers far less flexibility in sizing and design. Custom fabrication using precision measurements allows your counters to fit your space perfectly. The added cost is well worth it for most homeowners.
Can I install quartz countertops myself?
It is possible to DIY quartz countertop installation. But unless you have experience with construction projects, professional installation is highly recommended. The cutting, seam placement, and sink/faucet cutouts require skill for a quality result.
What thicknesses does quartz come in?
Quartz countertops are typically either 3/4 inch thick for vertical surfaces or 1 1/4 inch thick for horizontal surfaces. The thicker slabs offer more durability and structural integrity needed for heavily used spaces like kitchens.
Conclusion
When selected with care, quartz offers unparalleled durability and beauty in kitchens and bathrooms. While premium quartz materials do come at a price, many factors impact the final installed costs. Paying for quality fabrication and installation ensures your investment yields amazing results. With some smart planning, even luxury quartz can fit within a reasonable remodeling budget. The peace of mind from a low-maintenance, highly functional countertop surface makes quartz worth considering for your next project.