Who wouldn’t be interested in upgrading theirs to quartz? Quartz countertops are the newest style in kitchen and bathroom renovation, and they can help increase your home’s resale value. With pricing similar to granite countertops, quartz is a great choice for anyone looking for a slightly less shiny but attractive countertop.
Quartz countertops will always outperform other countertops in providing a stylish look for the kitchen. Quartz has several enticing properties, making it a popular choice among the general public. In addition to its stunning appearance, quartz is incredibly durable, scratch and heat-resistant, non-porous, and simple to maintain.
Quartz effectively solves the kitchen’s biggest challenges: spilled food stains and the frequent need for an intense scrub. There is, however, one major drawback that you need to be aware of; the cost. Quartz countertops are costly, sometimes discouraging homeowners from investing in this finish for their kitchen. A quartz countertop is sometimes a once-in-a-lifetime investment. Usually, the quartz worktop costs people off balance, but is it worth breaking the bank for?
So how much do quartz countertops cost? In this guide, you will get the answer to that question and get acquainted with the cost of quartz countertops and the various types that influence the cost. You will also discover whether quartz countertops are worth adding to your home.
Averagely, quartz countertops cost $4,500. However, they can cost between $1,500 and $12,000. Quartz worktops typically cost between $50 and $200 per square foot; on average, it will cost around $125 per square foot, including labor and materials. Materials such as granite, slate, vinyl, and others have less per square foot, so installing quartz countertops in your kitchen is a huge investment.
Quartz countertops boast a cool and sleek sign that will take your kitchen’s look to the next level. Quartz countertops are identical to granite countertops. Unlike granite, quartz is an engineered stone produced by grinding natural quartz into dust and mixed with a binding agent, synthetic materials, and other adhesives. It is baked into slabs using high heat to provide a long-lasting surface suitable for countertops due to its heat and stain resistance capacity.
Quartz comes in various colors, some solid, some speckled, and others with the swirly appearance of granite countertops. With various designs available, you should find the ideal style, design, and color for your kitchen or bathroom decor.
The cost of a quartz countertop depends on factors such as the size of your kitchen, the size of the slab, the number of seams you will have, and the quality of the quartz. On average, quartz countertops cost about $2,000, and $8,000 for a medium or decent-sized kitchen.
The table below shows quartz countertops’ low, average, and high costs. You are likely to fall into one of these categories.
Lowest Cost
$1,400
Average Cost
$4,500
High Cost
$12,000
The prices displayed above are only for the slabs and installation; expect to be charged more for the labor and installation cost. Also, if the installation professional is required to do a lot of edging and cutouts for the cooktop and sink, you will be charged more.
The edging process involves cutting the edge of the slab into an appealing, stunning design. Expect an increase in the installation cost if the laborer or professional cuts the slab’s edges.
How Much Would It Cost To Replace A Quartz Countertop?
The average cost of a quartz countertop, including the installation, ranges between £50 and £100 per square foot. Even a small countertop would cost between £2,700 and £5,400. The price may vary, but this often depends on the quality of the quartz slab you purchase.
When comparing quartz countertop pricing, the grade of the quartz slab is often divided into three categories: standard, medium, and high. A slab of standard-quality quartz will cost between £3,000 and £3,250. Medium-quality quartz, better than standard quartz, will cost you between £3,200 and £3,600. Meanwhile, a block of high-quality quartz will cost between £3,500 and £4000.
What is the Cost of Quartz CountertopInstallation?
Installation fees typically range between 20% and 50% of the total material cost. As a result, the typical cost of a quartz countertop installation is about 30% of the total material cost. Of course, the installation’s difficulty can vary, affecting the price you are charged.
Any quartz slab that does not have seams or corners is reasonably easy to install. This will, of course, be reflected in the installation fees. On the other hand, quartz countertops that are wrap-around or have several seams are more difficult to install.
Similarly, any installation in which the corners or edge of the quartz must be adjusted will result in a large price increase. Apart from cut-outs, any installation that requires waterfall edges will influence the installation cost.
Factors That Affect The Price of Quartz Countertops
When choosing your quartz countertop, knowing that several factors will likely influence the price is important. Installing a quartz countertop is not straightforward but more complex than you think. The amount you will pay to prepare your kitchen for the installation may take a large portion of the total cost.
The price of a quartz countertop can vary depending on the amount and quality of materials needed, labor costs, countertop treatment, cabinet leveling, edge treatments, colors and design, and so much more.
Below are the factors that impact the price of quartz countertops:
1. Quality
The quality of the quartz you want to purchase can influence the countertop installation cost. Factors such as the resin used to bind the quartz, color consistency, and the shine throughout the slab ultimately impact the countertop’s quality.
Quartz countertop cost between $40 to $90 per square foot for a standard material designed with fillers and additives and fillers. Mid-quality quartz costs around $70 to $100 per square foot, while high-end and luxurious models cost up to $200 per square foot.
2. Size or Number of Quartz Slabs
The number and types of slabs you will be getting will certainly impact the quartz countertops cost. Therefore, the larger the slabs, the more you’ll pay, and the smaller the slabs you need to complete your countertops, the lesser the project cost.
That said, you should know that some quartz sellers have a minimum requirement as regards the number of slabs they sell. Quartz slabs cost anywhere between $50 to $200 per square foot. Slabs are sold between $70 to $100 per square foot. Quartz slabs are typically sold in slabs around 120-by-55 inches.
3. Amount of Materials Needed
Quartz countertops prices are around $50 and $200 per square foot. However, these prices are not fixed and can change depending on the brand and manufacturer. Also, the quartz slab size will affect the overall cost of the counter installation because how much space you have in your home will determine how much quartz you need to purchase.
4. Waterfall Edge
Waterfall edge is increasingly becoming popular as far as countertops are concerned. Here, the countertop extends to the floor at a ninety-degree angle on each end, giving the kitchen a modern aesthetic.
This feature will surely look sleek and cool in your home. If you want a waterfall edge feature, include it in the quartz installation cost.
5. Colors And Style
Quartz offers a wide variety of colors for you to choose from. Popular colors such as warm beige, gray veining, or deep auburn will cost between $40 to $85 per square foot. Although the color does not influence quartz prices, going for a less common color could cost more. Also, choosing a quartz color that is extremely difficult to combine with a particular pigment will increase the countertop price.
6. Cabinet Preparation and Leveling
As expected, the old countertop should be removed before new quartz countertops can be installed. Also, you may need to level off and prep your cabinets for the new installation. Removing the old countertops costs around $5 to $20 per square foot.
The goal is to ensure the new heavy-duty countertops don’t damage the current cabinets. Your cabinetry may be damaged when removing the old countertops, so you are recommended to get a professional to remove them.
A professional or expert can use shims between the cabinets and the floor to create a level surface. If the nature of the job involves or requires intensive leveling, this will increase the cost of labor and materials.
7. Delivery
Quartz is heavy; it typically weighs 20 to 25 pounds per square foot, making it extremely difficult to transport. Delivering quartz slabs may cost between $130 to $200. You can save money by doing it yourself, but you may have to rent a big delivery truck if you don’t have a vehicle large enough to transport quartz.
8. Materials, Labor, and Installation
Professional quartz countertop installation typically costs $10 to $30 per square foot or $35 to $90 per hour. The price could be higher if you want to install thicker and heavier slabs. Also, the labor cost will increase should you need extra features such as outlet cut-outs or a sink cooktop.
Expect to pay more for labor if on-site cutouts are needed for electrical outlets. A matching quartz backsplash is another factor that will increase the cost of materials and labor.
Although the price of quartz is typically more than the cost of granite countertops, the prices of both materials have started to get pretty close. Granite countertops now cost $40 per square foot and may cost over $100 per square foot, only for the materials, which are far less common colors.
9. Cooktop, Faucet, Sink, and Outlet Cutouts
Some countertops sold in stores come with a sink cutout, which forms a part of the quartz countertop. Cut-outs may cost between $150 to $300 per cooktop or sink cutout or around $70 to $140 each for smaller cut-outs for items such as outlets.
You should expect to pay more for extras such as a built-in automated soap dispenser, a cooktop, a faucet, and other outlets that may need cutouts for installation; Some installation companies may include the cost of cutouts in their quote. Still, you can never be sure unless you double-check to confirm.
10. Brand
The brand or the company that manufactures the quartz has an impact on the material’s price. Below are some of the popular quartz countertop brands and their cost per square foot:
Viatera: $35 to $100 per square foot.
HanStone Quartz: $40 to $125 per square foot.
Silestone: $50 to $120 per square foot.
Caesarstone: $55 to $400 per square foot.
Corian Quartz: $60 to $100 per square foot.
Cambria Quartz: $60 to $150 per square foot.
11. Finish
A quartz countertop finish gives it a new look and can improve the room’s atmospheric condition. There are three types of quartz countertop finishes you need to know about. They include:
Honed finish: The worktop’s surface is smooth, giving it a matte finish. The honed finish conceals streaks, crumbs, and smudges well. However, not every quartz countertop can have a matte finish.
Sueded finish: This type adds more depth and texture to the countertop than the honed finish. A suede finish is easy to maintain; all that is needed is a simple wipe-down. A suede finish isn’t suitable for all quartz colors but complements darker quartz countertops.
Polished finish: This type of countertop finish is shiny and radiant. The countertops are buffed to ensure a brilliant, lustrous surface. Regular polishing is needed to maintain the shiny surface.
12. Edge Treatment
Edge treatments can also increase the total cost of quartz countertops. These treatments can cost between $5 and $60 per linear foot. Some manufacturers may offer more detailed and intricate edge treatments, which may cost higher than standard bevel, eased, and half-bullnose cuts.
Some of the traditional cuts are added to the quartz countertop price. Nevertheless, inquire about what type of edge treatment is included before installing the countertops.
Some of the quartz countertop edge treatments include:
Eased: A slightly rounded top edge will cost around $5 and $30 per foot.
Straight: This one features slight rounding at its top and bottom edge for safety. It costs between $10 and $30 per foot.
Rounded/Half-bullnose: Only the top half of the edge is rounded. This costs around $10 and $30 per square foot.
Full bullnose: The bottom and top edges are entirely rounded. This costs between $18 and $45 per square foot.
Bevel: The edge is carved or cut at a 45-degree angle. On average, this costs around $20 and $45 per square foot.
Double bullnose: It features two bullnose rounded edges, which may cost around $30 and $60 per square foot.
Ogee: The top edge comes with an S-cut, typically costing around $30 and $60 per square foot.
Dupont: The top edge is cut at a 90-degree angle and a quarter-round below for this edge treatment. They will cost around $30 and $60 per square foot.
14. Add-ons
Like anything that concerns home repairs and maintenance, some add-ons can impact the cost of quartz countertops. These add-ons include sink removal and installation, corner treatments, seaming, plumbing, backsplash installation, additional support for the countertop’s weight, and many more.
Here are some add-ons that may occur:
Corner Treatments: On average, corner treatment runs between $50 to $150 per corner.
Backsplash Installation: Installing a matching quartz backsplash can increase the installation cost. This is because more materials will be needed, and labor costs will be included, which will spike the project’s final cost. The cost of quartz for a backsplash should be the same as that of quartz countertops.
Sink removal and installation: Removing appliances and facilities will vary in cost. While sink removal cost between $200 to $300, a dishwasher will cost more.
Plumbing disconnect and reconnect: Several homeowners may want to upgrade, renovate, or do some plumbing work. Disconnecting and reconnecting plumbing lines, pipes, and channels will include an extra $150 to $400 to the project’s final cost.
Polishing and Sealing: Polishing your quartz countertops will give them a radiant and glowing look once installed. This typically costs $4 to $7 per square foot. Some homeowners may want to use a sealant, but since quartz isn’t porous, this may not be necessary, especially for budget and cost-conscious homeowners.
Buying a Quartz Countertop
It would be best to buy a quartz worktop locally when making a large investment for numerous reasons. Local businesses’ eagerness and determination to execute the job well distinguishes them. Word of mouth and reputation is extremely crucial, especially for small businesses. Large internet firms may guarantee a cheap countertop, but this is often not cheaper than a local stone fabricator.
Bigger organizations frequently outsource portions of their job, which can cause several issues. Furthermore, if a problem must be rectified, it takes a long time, and getting a good response can be strenuous.
When you work with a local company, you can expect friendly and helpful staff eager to offer their experience and expertise rather than just making the big sale.
Types of Quartz Countertops
Despite its expensive nature, quartz countertops are of different types. Your preference at the end of the day matters as you can decide what suits you and which is better.
If you prefer having quartz countertops in your home, you’ll have many different colors and styles. These options have their classification and unique look that makes them stand out.
Here are a few of the most commonly used quartz worktops with their description and the expected cost.
1. Jet Black
Jet Black is the perfect choice for anyone looking to get a modern, minimalist look. It comes with a luxurious and classy look giving the home a well-defined touch. These sleek, matte black quartz worktops cost about $57 per square foot.
2. Atlantic Salt
This type of quartz has an appearance that makes it look like that of a sandy beach. It complements a wide range of cabinet colors because of its color palette of browns, blacks, and whites. Atlantic Salt quartz countertops cost approximately $65 per square foot.
3. Calacatta Venice
Calacatta Venice is a common quartz countertop in newer kitchen remodels with an all-white aesthetic. They look stunningly bright and beautiful against stainless steel appliances. This quartz worktop is nice, costing around $65 per square foot.
4. Rugged Concrete
As the name suggests, rugged concrete resembles regular concrete. It is an ideal choice in a modern, industrial kitchen or bathroom. Typically, it costs about $75 per square foot.
Why Should You Choose Quartz Material For Your Worktop?
There are several reasons why people prefer quartz countertop installation over granite and other materials. Apart from its sleek and durable finish, here are some common reasons why homeowners prefer quartz worktop installation in their homes.
1. Style and Design
Regardless of the design and style you want for your home, quartz countertops will provide it. Quartz countertops can match any style aesthetic, from traditional to modern to rustic. They have a vivid color, appearance, design, and pattern throughout the length of every slab, thanks to the controlled manufacturing procedure made for the engineering stone.
The expected pattern can easily be paired between the two slabs to conceal the seams satisfactorily. Typically, quartz worktops offer varieties of options for styles, colors, designs, finishes, patterns, and edge designs for you to select from. Moreover, they provide patterns and options identical to natural stones like granite or marble.
2. Durability
In comparison to granite countertops, quartz models are more durable and long-lasting. They are made from natural ground quartz, synthetic materials, adhesives, and binding agents. Quartz countertops are made into slabs using high temperatures, which ensures a durable surface that is perfect and well-built for high-traffic countertops.
3. Easy To Clean and Maintain
Quartz countertops are durable and easy to clean. Quartz is highly resistant to scratches, stains, heat, and bacterial growth. Also, they do not need to be sealed. Unlike other worktops, quartz countertops are relatively easy to maintain and can be a great choice for anyone too busy to clean the worktop often.
4. No Sealing Required, and Stain Resistant
Quartz is nonporous, nontoxic, and antimicrobial, and it doesn’t require any form of sealing. Although some chemicals may stain a countertop, quartz worktops are generally known to be stain and scratch resistant.
When using cleaners, ensure you use a cleaner made of natural stone to prevent discoloration, as these countertops are manufactured from 93% natural quartz and 7% resin.
5. Return on Investment
If you are looking for a long-term solution for your kitchen or bathroom, you may consider using quartz countertops because they are durable. Homeowners should expect a high value and return on investment after installing quartz countertops to be 80% or more or replacing their old laminate worktops.
Quartz is a durable and stunning material, and most buyers find them attractive, so you can get a great value on them when you want to sell your home.
6. Eco-Friendly Option
Quartz is considered a more eco-friendly option because it produces fewer carbon emissions during production and manufacturing. Since the quartz used for making countertops is obtained from quartz that has already been mined, additional energy won’t be required to mine the products.
Most countertop brands are based in the United Statesand manufacture their products in the U.S., reducing transportation and haulage costs significantly.
Quartz CountertopsInstallation: Cost of Installing a Quartz Countertop Yourself (DIY) Vs. Hiring a Professional
We recommend you get a professional to install your quartz worktops. Quartz slabs weigh around 20 and 25 pounds per square foot and could be difficult to transport and carry around unless you have the right equipment.
Professionals have the tools and equipment needed to cut and install quartz countertops. If you want to do the job the right way, you will need the services and expertise of a professional. But if you want to rent cutting tools for edge finishes or sink cutouts, you may make costly mistakes and errors that will incur additional costs to replace the quartz slab.
Installing quartz countertops is a painstaking process that should be taken seriously, so it is not always recommended as a DIY project. Hiring a countertops installation professional is a valuable and worthwhile investment, and it may cost around $35 to $85 per hour or $10 to $30 per square foot.
How Much Does DIY Quartz Countertop Cost?
Anyone can install their quartz countertop themselves. Depending on the type and nature of the installation, you save up to $10 to $40 per square foot on labor costs. However, this job is not suited for people with back pain or those with problems lifting weighty objects. It is not recommended for first-timers or people without installation experience.
Even if you prefer to do it yourself, you may need a helping hand, maybe one or two people, to help pick up the quartz countertop during installation. As mentioned, raw slabs of quartz should weigh between 20 to 25 pounds per square foot, so you will need safety equipment and multiple hands to help you lift and install it safely.
How To Save Money On Quartz Countertop Installation
Quartz countertops are quite pricey, and the extra fees associated with the installation can inflate the project’s final cost. Still, their durability, ease of maintenance, and style aesthetic make them a worthwhile investment for most homeowners. There are many ways to save money on quartz worktop costs, and one such way is to install the cheapest quartz you can get.
Other ways to reduce new quartz countertop costs include:
Get multiple quotes: Get at least three quotes from installation companies or professionals in your area.
Double-check that quote: After getting an estimate for quartz worktop installation, ensure you properly read and confirm the quote. Verify if it is only for the quartz slab or if it includes the installation price. Does the price quote include measurement, transport, cutouts, and other add-on costs,
Purchase the countertop worktop off-season: You could get quartz countertops for a lower price after the festive holidays in January.
Get a thicker slab: The thinner the quartz countertop slab, the more expensive it gets. Therefore, to save costs, consider getting a thinner one.
Limit the slabs: Consider reducing the number of quartz slabs to one rather than two. Doing this can help reduce the high cost of materials. Better still, you can ask if quartz remnants are available or if you can buy half a slab for a small project like a bathroom counter.
Opt for common quartz styles: Various quartz styles on the market will add a lot of charisma and elegance to your kitchen without inflating the cost. Going for a complex or rare style will drive up the cost of your project, so you should stick to a simpler style to save costs on quartz worktops.
Stick to countertops: Unless you have prepared a budget for extra materials for the kitchen backsplash, you can save money by installing quartz only on the countertops. Including extra slabs as a backsplash will increase the quartz cost to around $50 to $200 per square foot.
Questions To Ask Yourself When Buying Quartz Countertops?
Making the right inquiries and asking questions about quartz worktop costs can expand your knowledge and help you save money. Some of the questions to ask a quartz countertop installation company or professional include the following:
Do you have industry certification?
Are you licensed and insured? (Some states in the U.S. may require a contractor to be licensed, whereas others do not.)
Do you have any references?
Who will install the countertops?
How much quartz is in the countertops?
How long have you been in business?
What finishes and options are available on the countertop for me?
How long will the installation take?
How can I maintain the countertops?
Do you offer a warranty?
What type of warranty do you offer?
How To Clean a Quartz Worktop
Quartz kitchen worktops are simple to clean and maintain, so no special soap or cleaner is required. A simple mild detergent or soap and warm water can do the trick. Using soap and water will restore your worktop to like-new condition. Cleaning your countertop regularly will ensure the quartz retains its brilliance and sheen for many years.
Aggressive cleansers should never be used on quartz. The good news is that if you accidentally expose a worktop to an alkaline-containing product, as long as you rinse the damaged area with water immediately, you should escape any long-term damage.
If you need to polish the quartz, use extreme caution. It will melt if it gets too hot because it is resinous. Conversely, silicone sealing isn’t as critical as other worktops. This is due to the weight of the quartz forming an airtight seal that holds the sink in place.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Quartz countertops installation can be expensive depending on several factors, and managing your budget is painstaking. Here are some frequently asked questions about quartz worktop costs to help guide homeowners like you.
Can quartz countertops be installed outdoors?
Quartz is a great material for homeowners to use in their outdoor kitchens. Quartz is an excellent, versatile, and durable option for indoor and outdoor kitchens. It can withstand different elements, and even the toughest weather condition won’t affect it. Since quartz is non-porous, it won’t be affected by rainfall.
To endure the longevity and durability of the quartz, avoid installing it in direct sunlight to prevent fading and warping and potentially making the warranty invalid. Keep your quartz worktops out of direct sunlight to ensure a long life.
Is quartz scratch resistant?
Although quartz is scratch resistant, it is not scratchproof.
What is the average lifespan of a quartz worktop?
A quartz worktop or countertop can last as long as you want.
How do I fix a dent in a quartz worktop?
Before repairing or fixing anything, check if it comes with a warranty. If you ever need to fix it yourself, use a repair kit that uses a chemical spray or an epoxy to harden the repair.
What is the best way to maintain my quartz worktop?
Cleaning them with soap, water, and a soft cloth is the proper way to maintain quartz worktops. While cleaning, wipe any colored liquids immediately to prevent potential stains. For deep cleaning, spray a glass cleaner and leave it for ten minutes before wiping.
If you want to use a degreaser, only use one made for quartz worktops. In addition, always use trivets and cutting boards for burning pains.
Can I put a hot pan on a quartz worktop?
Quartz worktops are not heatproof but heat-resistant. Placing a hot pan from your oven onto the countertop will burn the countertop.
Why is my quartz worktop chipping?
Placing a heavy item on the worktop will surely cause it to chop. Standing or sitting on the surface can cause it to crack and chip. Using the worktop as a cutting board for chopping meats, carrots, onions, vegetables, and other items may create scratches on the surface, and that may cause it to chip.
Can I chop vegetables on my quartz worktop?
Although you can cut vegetables on your worktop, this is not always recommended because cutting food items on a hard surface like quartz can damage your knives. As mentioned, a quartz worktop is not scratchproof but is scratch resistant.
Cutting food items repeatedly on the surface may scratch the surface and cause bacteria to grow in the abrasions.
Can I roll dough on my quartz countertop?
You can roll dough on your quartz worktop, but always ensure to follow the guidelines below:
Since dough can absorb chemical cleaners, always use soap and water to clean the countertop.
Do not roll dough when there are countertops seams.
Do not toll out dough that uses liquid food coloring on your countertops because it can cause it to stain.
Is quartz better than granite?
No material is better than the other; it all depends on your preference; Granite is a natural stone, and its price is much lower than quartz. Although granite is eco-friendly, it can incur heavy haulage costs since it needs to be quarried.
Some oils and acids can potentially damage some granite. Also, granite countertops should be resealed every year to prevent staining. Quartz is made from a high component of natural quartz, and it looks like natural stone, which you can customize to your taste.
Even though quartz is more costly than granite, it is more environmentally friendly. It is more durable and doesn’t require sealing as granite.
What are the drawbacks of quartz worktops?
The major drawback of quartz countertops is that they can be expensive. Secondly, the heat in your kitchen can damage its surface. Unlike granite, which isn’t affected when a hot kettle, pot, or pan is placed on it, quartz countertops will reveal scorch marks and signs of discoloration. The reason is that the resin or finish used on quartz countertops can only hold temperatures up to 150 degrees.
What are the benefits of Quartz Countertops?
Although quartz countertops are expensive, they remain popular due to their elegant design and durability. Some manufacturers of quartz countertops offer a lifetime warranty or guarantee for their products. Another benefit is that quartz countertop brings a new design and beauty to your kitchen and home.
Wrapping Up
Hiring an expert installation familiar with quartz countertops is advisable if you want a kitchen countertop that will last a very long time. These worktops are custom-made for your kitchen and will last a lifetime if properly maintained.
Additionally, quartz countertops are well worth the expense. If you want something elegant, stylish, and tough to destroy, go for it without looking back. If you ever need to polish the quartz, do it cautiously, as it is resinous and can melt if it gets too hot.
