Quartz countertops are a popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects due to their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance. But with the many quartz brands and options on the market, what’s the average cost for quartz countertops?

Here is a detailed overview of the factors that influence quartz countertop pricing, along with typical cost ranges so you can budget for your remodeling project.

What is Quartz?

Before diving into costs, it helps to understand exactly what quartz countertops are. Quartz is an engineered stone made from natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The result is a very hard, non-porous material that resists scratches, stains, and heat.

Quartz slabs are manufactured in a wide variety of colors and patterns to resemble natural stone like marble or granite. But unlike natural stone, quartz has very consistent coloring and patterning since it is engineered. This makes it easier to get an exact color match if you need to replace a section of your countertop.

Quartz Countertop Cost Factors

Several factors determine the total installed price of quartz countertops in your home. These include:

Quartz brand – More premium brands like Caesarstone generally cost more than value-oriented brands like Silestone.
Color and pattern – Unusual or premium colors and patterns add cost compared to standard whites and grays.
Edge treatments – Decorative edges like ogee and bullnose cost more than standard square edges.
Thickness – Most quartz is 1.2 cm thick. Thicker slabs of 2 or 3 cm are more expensive.
Installation – Hiring a professional to template, fabricate and install will add cost over DIY.
Sink cutouts – Adding cutouts for an undermount sink adds incremental cost.
Backsplash – Adding a matching quartz backsplash increases total project cost.
Area to be covered – Total square footage needed will drive cost.

Average Quartz Countertop Costs

With those factors in mind, here are some typical average costs for quartz countertops:

Quartz material cost – $40-$100 per square foot for the slab
Fabrication – $150-$200 per square foot
Installation – $40-$100 per square foot
Total installed cost – $80-$150 for mid-range quality, $150-$250+ for premium quartz

As you can see, the total price depends heavily on the quartz quality, complexities of the project, and choice of fabricator/installer. It’s best to get an itemized quote for your specific project.

Cost Comparison to Other Countertop Materials

Compared to other popular countertop materials, quartz lands in the middle in terms of price:

Laminate – $20-$50 per square foot installed
Granite – $80-$175 per square foot installed
Marble – $100-$250 per square foot installed
Quartz – $80-$250 per square foot installed
Solid surfaces (Corian) – $70-$100 per square foot installed

Quartz offers an excellent balance of quality, durability, and value compared to pricier natural stone and more budget-friendly options like laminate.

Can Quartz Be DIY?

With the right tools, materials, and skills, it is possible to DIY quartz countertops. However, most homeowners choose to hire professionals due to the complexities. Key steps like perfectly measuring, seam placement, cutting sinks or cooktops, and polishing require specialized tools.

If you do want to DIY, be prepared to invest in tools like a wet saw, router, adhesives, and polisher. You’ll also need a large clean workspace. DIY fabricating quartz slabs is very labor intensive. Have an experienced helper if attempting a DIY install.

Tips for Getting the Best Price

Here are some tips to get the best price and value from your quartz purchase:

Shop around and get quotes from 3-5 fabricators – pricing can vary widely.
Consider quartz “remnants” for significant cost savings. These are leftover pieces from previous jobs.
Stick to a basic edge and standard thickness to minimize price.
Look for deals through warehouse stores like Costco.
Avoid intricate patterns or premium colors to reduce cost.
Install smaller pieces yourself and hire a pro for large seamless sections.

Trending Quartz Styles and Colors

Some of the most popular current quartz trends include:

White marble looks – Quartz can mimic the veining of white Carrara or Calacatta marble very convincingly. This gives an elegant, timeless look.
Gray tones – Shades of gray remain popular for their versatility and modern feel. Pairs well with many color schemes.
Muted earth tones – Light browns and beiges offer a very natural, organic color palette that fits with many styles.
Bold patterns – Quartz manufacturers are getting very creative with unique aggregate, geometric, and color-blocking designs.
Dark moody colors – Deep blacks, navy blues, or forest greens create drama and sophistication.

The Takeaway on Quartz Countertop Costs

When professionally installed, quartz makes an excellent investment that can increase home resale value. While not the cheapest option, quartz offers unbeatable durability and maintenance ease compared to most materials. With an average cost of $80-$250 per square foot installed, careful shopping around and budgeting can make quartz an attainable option for most kitchen makeovers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is quartz more expensive than granite?

Quartz and granite have similar average costs, but granite has a wider range. Granite can be cheaper at the low end but also more expensive at the high end than quartz. Overall they are comparable in price.

Is quartz cheaper than marble?

Yes, quartz almost always costs significantly less than natural marble countertops. Marble is prone to etching and stains which makes quartz a better value choice.

Is Caesarstone more expensive than Silestone?

Yes, Caesarstone is considered one of the more premium, higher-priced quartz brands, while Silestone is generally more budget-friendly. Exact pricing depends on the colors and patterns chosen though.

Should I choose a quartz remnant for cost savings?

Quartz remnants can offer huge cost savings of 50% or more off full slab pricing. As long as you can work with standard edge pieces and irregular dimensions, remnants are great value.

Does quartz add resale value?

Yes, quartz countertops can increase your home’s value, similar to granite. Quartz is seen as an upscale material that will appeal to buyers. But avoid ultra-trendy styles that may not have long-term appeal.

Is DIY quartz fabrication realistic?

DIY quartz fabrication is possible but very difficult. Without proper tools and experience, it will be challenging to achieve professional-looking seams and polished edges. Consider helping with install only to reduce costs.

Is quartz maintenance free?

While very low maintenance compared to other natural stones, quartz does require occasional cleaning like any surface. Avoid abrasive cleaners. Wipe spills quickly to keep the lustrous finish. Resealing is not needed.

How thick should quartz countertops be?

The standard thickness for quartz is 1.2 cm, which provides adequate strength for most applications. Go thicker if there is an unsupported overhang. 1.5 cm and 3 cm are other common quartz thicknesses.

Do quartz countertops stain?

Quartz resists stains very well and is non-porous. However, prolonged exposure to strong chemicals or dyes can damage the surface and lead to discoloration that requires professional repair.

Is quartz cheaper than solid surface?

Quartz and solid surface materials like Corian have similar average prices per square foot installed. Solid surface costs a bit less on the low end, while premium quartz is higher than solid surface high-end.

Conclusion

Quartz countertops offer the look of high-end natural stone with added resilience and longevity. With an average installed cost of $80-$250 per square foot, quartz falls squarely in the mid-range pricing for countertops. Exact quartz costs will vary based on brand, colors, patterns, and complexity of your project. By following the guidance above, you can maximize value and find beautiful, durable quartz countertops that fit your budget.

What’s the Average Cost for Quartz Countertops?