Quartz countertops have become increasingly popular in kitchen and bathroom remodels thanks to their durability, low maintenance, and wide range of colors and patterns. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to find the best deals on high-quality quartz. Here is an in-depth look at strategies for finding the most affordable quartz countertops to fit your budget and style.
Compare Quotes from Local Fabricators
The first step is getting quotes from different local countertop fabricators in your area. Many specialize in quartz and work directly with major brands to offer competitive pricing. Be sure to get at least 3-4 quotes and have them itemized so you can accurately compare overall costs. Key details to ask about include:
- Cost per square foot of the quartz material
- Any fees for installation, delivery, template creation, etc.
- Warranties on workmanship
- Reviews of the fabricator’s quality and service
Quartz prices can range from $50-150 per square foot depending on the brand and pattern. Higher-end materials like Caesarstone generally cost more than options from IKEA or Lowe’s. Keep an eye out for any specials or sales being offered as well.
Look for Quartz Remnants
Quartz fabricators often have leftover remnants available for sale after completing installations. These quartz remnants provide an opportunity to score the same high-end materials at a fraction of the typical cost. Standard sizes tend to go quickly, but you may be able to patch together near-full slabs for an island or other design if you’re flexible. Be sure to carefully inspect remnants for any flaws or cracks before purchase.
Shop Quartz Sample Sales
Many quartz manufacturers and distributors offer significant discounts on sample quartz countertops that were used for display purposes. While selection is limited to whatever samples they have in stock, the savings are considerable at 50% or more off retail pricing. Check manufacturer and kitchen design showrooms for availability.
Buy Pre-fabricated Quartz
Instead of paying for full custom fabrication and installation, pre-fab quartz counters offer convenience and affordability. Home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s sell modular quartz pieces in popular sizes that you can install yourself or with minimal labor fees. While color and size options are more limited, total costs for materials and installation can be 30-50% less than custom fabrication.
Negotiate with Fabricators
Don’t be afraid to negotiate with fabricators on quartz pricing, especially if you’re purchasing a larger number of slabs. Many build in at least 20% profit margins on materials and labor. See if they can shave 10% off costs or throw in extras like sink installation for free if you agree to purchase from them. Having flexibility on timing and being open to remnants or samples can also help secure discounts.
Use Quartz for Parts of the Countertop
To qualify for lower pricing, some fabricators require quartz installations to be a certain minimum square footage. Rather than paying premium rates for a small installation, consider using quartz only on sections that need more durability, like near the sink. Use a more affordable material like laminate for other sections. This lets you get the benefits of quartz without the high overall costs.
Explore Lower-Cost Quartz Options
To cater to different budgets, many companies now offer more affordable quartz product lines that are priced 20-30% below their luxury options. Brands like Caesarstone have lines like Supernatural Ultra that are more budget-friendly. While durability and performance are the same, colors and patterns tend to be more limited in selection.
Take Advantage of Countertop Sales
Be on the lookout for seasonal kitchen countertop sales around holidays and inventory clearance events. Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, and Black Friday/Cyber Monday are prime times to score discounts from fabricators eager to clear out existing slab inventory before the year is up. You may need to compromise on color selection but the savings will be significant.
Final Thoughts
With some savvy shopping techniques and flexibility on options, it’s possible to find high-quality quartz countertops at budget-friendly pricing. Focus your efforts on comparing fabricator quotes, checking for remnants and samples, using quartz strategically rather than for the whole project, negotiating costs, and timing purchases around promotional sales. With the right deal, you can enjoy durable, low-maintenance quartz countertops that upgrade your space without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions about Affordable Quartz Countertops
What should I budget for quartz countertops?
On average, expect to pay $70-100 per square foot for quartz countertop installation. Luxury materials can be $100-150/square foot. Affordable options like Ikea or pre-fab quartz range from $50-70/square foot installed.
What are quartz remnants and how much savings do they offer?
Remnants are leftover pieces of quartz slabs from previous jobs. They can offer savings of 50% or more compared to full-price slabs. There is limited size and color selection, but great value.
How much can I negotiate on the price of quartz?
Most fabricators have at least a 20% profit margin built in. You may be able to negotiate 10% off, especially if purchasing multiple slabs or selecting a style they want to clear inventory of.
Should I purchase quartz samples to save money?
Quartz sample slabs used for display can be 50%+ off normal costs. Availability is limited and may not offer the color you want but significant savings are available.
Are pre-fabricated quartz countertops a good affordable option?
For 30-50% savings on materials and labor compared to custom-made, pre-fab store-bought counters are a smart budget choice despite less flexibility. Great for DIY installs.
What times of year do I find the best quartz deals?
Fabricators and kitchen/bath retailers offer sales around major holidays when they are motivated to clear inventory. Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas are key sale seasons.