There is much to consider when selecting new countertops for your kitchen or bathroom. Color, pattern, thickness, edge style to name a few. Aside from the obvious decisions, the cost of a countertop material can end up being the deciding factor for many people. Meaning the price of their countertops may dictate the rest of their remodel budget so they want to make sure they know what they are paying for, that it looks great, and that it’s worth it.
So, have you ever wondered why some quartz and other stone countertops such as granite can vary tremendously in price? Keep reading to find out.
The Makeup of Quartz
Contrary to popular belief, quartz is not a natural stone. Instead, it is an engineered stone made of a natural gemstone known as quartz. The countertops consist of about 95 to 97 percent quartz and three to five percent polymer resin. Since quartz is a manufactured stone, this is one of the most significant factors affecting its price. Therefore, quartz tends to be cheaper than natural stones like granite or marble.
In comparison, quartz is slightly cheaper than granite and substantially cheaper than marble. But the fact that it’s a manufactured stone isn’t the only factor that makes quartz cheaper than other natural stones. Here are some other things that may affect the cost of quartz countertops.
Size of the Quartz Countertops
Another major factor affecting the quartz price should come as no surprise, and that is size. In most cases, the larger something is or, the more of it you need, the more it will cost. The same is valid with quartz countertops. On average, quartz countertops range between $50 to $90 per square foot. A typical kitchen countertop is about 30 square feet. As a result, the cost to cover this amount of space, no installation fees included, would range between $1,500 and $2,700. Of course, if the kitchen requires more quartz countertops material, then the range will be even higher.
Every countertop store or contractor has their own pricing and may even have special deals, so these numbers are simply a guide for you to compare. Make sure to shop around.
Color and Tone of Quartz
Since quartz is an engineered stone, there are more color options available than with most natural stones. However, some color options are more popular than others. Therefore, color and tone can affect the price. In addition, some colors are easier to achieve when mixing than others. So, the harder it is to create a specific pigment, the more expensive the quartz will be. Also, if there are gold flecks added to the coloring, this may drive up the price of the quartz.
Quality of the Stone
Although most quartz ranges from $50 to $90 per square foot, the quality of the quartz may drive up the price. Mid-grade quartz tends to run from $65 to $75 per square foot, and the very best of the best could cost between $75 to $125 per square foot. The quality of the stone may vary according to many factors. However, the most common are as follows:
There may be other factors that affect the quality of quartz, but these are the most critical. The better the consistency of color, the stronger the quality of resin, and the better the shine, the higher the quality of quartz. Thus, the higher the cost.
Labor Rates of the Installer
Perhaps one of the most critical factors in quartz costs is installation costs. In addition to the cost of the materials, the labor may add $25 to $35 to the price per square foot. For example, if you choose to go with a mid-grade quartz installation, typically $65 to $75 for the materials alone, the added installation fee will drive the cost up to $90 to $110 per square foot.
Installers will typically not charge the same rate, so it is a good idea to get quotes on installation from at least three installers. The cheapest rate may not necessarily be the best. Therefore, upon scrutinizing the rates, it’s also good to determine why they vary and even request proof of their work and get references.
Other Factors to Consider
There are a few other factors that may tack on additional small charges. These include the type of edges you may want for your countertops and the sink or oven cutouts in the quartz. Other cost factors may include replacing a sink, disconnecting, and reconnecting plumbing or electrical, and hauling old countertops. Although these aren’t directly related to the costs of the quartz itself, you may incur these costs during the installation process.
Quartz is a beautiful countertop that is durable and just as good as natural stone countertops, even though it is manufactured. However, just like granite, marble, and other natural stones, some factors can drive up the price of the stone. So, when buying quartz, a person shouldn’t budget just for the cost of the materials alone. Instead, they should also keep in mind the indirect costs associated with installing quartz countertops.
Countertop Fabrication and Installation in Wisconsin
For the best prices and selection of stone countertops for your new build or renovation, Wisconsin Granite Design in Oak Creek is the place to visit. We are experts in fabricating, delivering, and installing the highest quality countertop solutions at the best prices and have been doing it for years.
Our showroom will inspire you as it is one stop shop carrying hundreds of granite, quartz and marble slabs on site. You can also visit us, speak with a designer and plan your kitchen or bath remodel at the same place. Call us to schedule a Free Design consultation and see why we are a #1 choice for stone countertops throughout Wisconsin!
Durable and sleek engineered quartz countertops are widely used by homeowners in their kitchens. With a price point and look similar to granite countertops, they are a great choice for those looking for something less glossy. Quartz also withstands stains, food spills, and regular scrubbing.
But do you know how much engineered quartz countertops cost?
Their price is almost the same as granite, starting at $40 per square foot and ranging over $200.
However, multiple factors that can affect this price. In this post, we discuss them to help you make an informed decision.
Let’s get started.
Here are the important factors that determine the cost of these kitchen countertops
How much you pay will largely depend on the brand you choose such as Caesarstone and Silestone. The size of the quartz slab will also affect its overall cost. This is because the total amount of kitchen space determines the total amount of quartz you have to buy. Obviously, the bigger the space, the more slabs you need.
This is one of the vital factors that decide the cost of these kitchen countertops. For example, a matching backsplash made from quartz will increase your labour costs.
Quartz countertops look stunning, and their finish will affect your kitchen’s ambience. Below are the kinds of finishes used for these kitchen countertops:
Honed finish: A honed countertop is ground down to have a matte, non-reflective surface. This is vital for concealing smudges, streaks or crumbs.
Polished finish: Here, the quartz countertop is buffed to a glossy, shiny finish. It requires additional polishing in order to maintain a lustrous look.
Sueded finish: Compared to a honed finish, a sueded finish has more depth and texture. This style complements dark quartz countertops and requires little maintenance.
The edge treatment you choose can impact the price of quartz countertops. Detailed and intricate ones such as waterfall edges cost more than standard edges like square and eased styles.
A waterfall edge is where the quartz countertop extends up to the floor at a 90-degree angle on each end, thereby creating a stylish modern look. An eased edge is slightly rounded at the top while the square one has a straight 90-degree edge that is less rounded.
Before Installing a quartz countertop, the kitchen cabinets should be properly levelled to support their weight. Otherwise, the whole countertop may warp or crack. A professional will use shims between the kitchen cabinets and floor for a levelled surface. However, if the task involves more in-depth levelling, both the costs of labour and materials will increase.
Below are a few extra costs involved when installing quartz kitchen countertops.
Removal of Your Old Kitchen Countertop
You must remove the old countertop before installing the new quartz one. Always hire a professional installer for this.
Some will include this cost in their initial quote; others won’t. So, confirm it either way.
Faucet, Outlet Cutouts, and Sink Removal
Stock kitchen countertops and those found in local stores may include a sink cutout which increases the countertop’s overall price. You will also have to pay more for the cooktop, faucet, and outlet cutouts. Some companies include these cutout prices in their quote, so check this too.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
It is best to hire a professional when mounting quartz countertops, especially if you do not have adequate experience and knowledge.
Quartz slabs weigh 20 to 25 pounds per square foot and are hard to move unless you have the right equipment. That’s why professional installers are best to install and cut quartz countertops. If you rent special cutting tools for edge finishes or sink cutouts and make a mistake, you will incur additional expenses to replace the slab.
These are the key factors that affect the price of engineered quartz countertops for your kitchen. The more flexible you are about edge treatment, finish, and slab size, the more you may save. Also, be sure to hire a professional to install it if you don’t have the training and experience. If you are looking for a reliable stone company, contact MaxSpace Stone Works. From material selection to fabrication, our experts are with you at every step.