Quartz countertops have become a top choice for homeowners seeking a blend of durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance. Yet, understanding the cost to install quartz kitchen countertops involves more than just slab prices. This detailed guide breaks down all cost factors—from material and labor to extras like cutouts and removal—while incorporating key long-tail keywords such as:
The average cost to install quartz countertops in the kitchen
Cost to install quartz countertops in the kitchen
install quartz countertop cost
install quartz countertops
install quartz countertop diy
installing quartz kitchen countertops
Cost of quartz kitchen countertops installed
Whether you’re planning a full kitchen remodel or a simple upgrade, read on to learn how to budget effectively and make choices that align with your design goals and wallet.
cost to install quartz countertops in kitchen
Cost to Install Quartz Countertop
When considering quartz, homeowners should account for both slab material and installation labor. Below is a high-level cost breakdown for 2025:
Quartz Slab Material: $50 to $150+ per square foot (material only)
Entry-level quartz: $50–$70/sq. Ft.
Mid-range quartz: $70–$100/sq. Ft.
Premium/designer quartz: $100–$150+ /sq. Ft.
Installation Labor: $10 to $30 per square foot (labor only)
Basic straight-edged installation: $10–$15 /sq. Ft.
Complex edge profiling or multiple cutouts: $20–$30 /sq. Ft.
Additional Costs:
Removal of Existing Countertops: $5–$15 per sq. ft.
Cutouts (Sinks, Faucets, Cooktops): $100–$300 each
Edge Profiling: $3–$25 per linear foot (depending on edge style)
Delivery & Handling: $100–$500 per slab (varies by region)
Sealing/Polishing: $2–$6 per sq. ft. (optional for extra glossy finish)
By aggregating these numbers, a typical 30–40 sq. ft. kitchen countertop project can range from $1,800 to over $8,000 installed, depending on quartz grade and project complexity.
Countertop Installation Cost Guide
Installing quartz involves several steps beyond simply placing the slabs. Below is a detailed guide outlining each phase and its associated costs:
1. Initial Consultation & Measurements
In-Home Measurement & Template: $100–$200
Installers use laser templating or plywood templates to capture exact dimensions.
Accurate measurements reduce waste and prevent fitting errors.
Design Consultation: Free to $100 (depending on company)
Some showrooms offer complimentary design sessions; others charge a fee, often credited against the final purchase.
2. Removal of Existing Countertop
Professional Removal & Disposal: $150–$600 total (or $5–$15 /sq. ft.)
Granite or marble slabs can be heavy and require special handling.
DIY removal is possible, but it risks damage to the underlying cabinets.
3. Cabinet Preparation & Reinforcement
Cabinet Adjustments: $200–$600
Quartz is heavier than laminate or wood; cabinets may need shimming or reinforcement.
Costs vary based on plywood backing or additional supports.
4. Fabrication & Slab Cutting
Edge Profiling (per linear ft.):
Eased or Straight Edge: $3–$6
Bullnose/Ogee/Waterfall: $12–$25
Cutouts:
Undermount Sink: $100–$200
Faucet/Cooktop: $75–$150 each
Multiple cutouts or custom shapes add to labor charges.
Labor for Fabrication: $20–$35 per sq. ft.
5. Installation & Seaming
Professional Installation: $10–$30 per sq. ft.
Steps include leveling cabinets, applying silicone adhesives, and securing seams with color-matched epoxy.
Seam pricing: $150–$300 per seam for visible areas (kitchen sinks or islands).
Sealing & Polishing: $2–$6 per sq. ft. (if extra gloss or stain protection is desired, though quartz is non-porous by design)
Cleanup & Inspection: $100–$200
Contractors remove debris, vacuum up stone dust, and perform a final quality check for levelness and finish.
6. Additional Considerations
Backsplash Installation: Quartz backsplashes match countertops but cost the same per sq. ft. as countertops (material + labor) . Many homeowners choose tile instead to save money.
Knock-Outs & Patchwork: If homeowners want holes for outlets or unique designs, expect $50–$100 per patchwork area.
Warranty & Service Calls: Many installers include a 1–5 year warranty for workmanship. Service call fees after installation can be $75–$150 if issues arise.
How Much Do Quartz Countertops Cost?
Understanding quartz pricing entails examining slab grades, brand premiums, and regional variations.
Quartz Slab Price Ranges (Material Only)
Entry-Level Quartz: $50–$70 per sq. ft.
Suitable for budget-friendly color patterns (solid or subsubtlyecked looks).
Brands: Some house brands or lower-tier product lines.
Mid-Tier Quartz: $70–$100 per sq. ft.
Offers a wider selection of veining patterns (e.g., white with gray veins).
Brands: Caesarstone 4000 series, Silestone’s popular colors.
Premium/Designer Quartz: $100–$150+ per sq. ft.
High-end designs that closely mimic exotic marbles (e.g., Calacatta types).
Brands: Cambria Quartz, Caesarstone 6000+ series, Dekton ultracompact surfaces.
Ultra-Premium/Custom Quartz: $150–$200+ per sq. ft.
Exclusive patterns, bespoke colorways, or limited-edition lines.
Often imported or limited production, commanding top dollar.
Factors Affecting Material Cost
Slab Thickness:
Standard = 2 cm (¾″): Slightly less expensive; requires backer boards for overhangs.
Premium = 3 cm (1¼″): More robust, allows for longer overhangs without support; ~10–15% more expensive.
Slab Size:
122″×65″ (~55 sq. ft.): Most common.
135″×71″ (~66 sq. ft.): Less waste for large islands; slightly higher per-sq.-ft. Price due to scarcity.
Jumbo slabs (144″×80″, 70–80 sq. ft.): Rare and more expensive, but eliminate seams in very large kitchens.
Color & Pattern Complexity:
Simple, solid colors have minimal resin and pigment costs.
Complex marble-look veins require precise resin blends and labor, adding $10–$30/sq. Ft. to base price.
Brand Premiums:
Well-known brands (Cambria, Caesarstone, Silestone) charge 20–40% more than generic or house brands.
Warranty length, warranty coverage (stain resistance, workmanship) also factor into cost.
Regional Price Differences
Urban Areas (e.g., Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco):
Expect 10–20% above the national average due to higher labor rates and property costs.
Example: A 30 sq. ft. quartz kitchen in L.A. might total $4,500–$7,500 installed.
Suburban/Rural Markets:
Labor and overhead can be 10–20% below urban rates.
Example: Same 30 sq. ft. project might cost $2,500–$5,000 installed in Midwest states.
International Costs:
Canada: CAD 80–$200 per sq. ft. installed (slightly higher due to import duties).
Australia: AAUD 100$300 per sq. ft. installed (quartz often imported; shipping adds 10–15%).
UK: £80–£200 per sq. m installed (different measurement); equates to about $90–$2USD 220er per sq. ft. installed, reflecting VAT and import costs.
Always obtain local quotes to pinpoint costs in your specific region.
install quartz countertops
Quartz Countertops Pricing Guide for Homeowners
To help homeowners evaluate costs accurately, below is a step-by-step guide on how to estimate expenses and make cost-effective decisions.
1. Measure Your Kitchen
Determine Countertop Area (in square feet):
Measure the length, width, and height of each countertop segment (e.g., perimeter, island).
Sum segment areas:
Example: 10 ft. run × 2.5 ft. deep = 25 sq. ft.; plus island 6 ft. × 4 ft. = 24 sq. ft.; total = 49 sq. ft.
Add Waste Factor:
Add 10–15% to account for cuts, seam alignment, and pattern matching.
For 49 sq. ft., order ~54–56 sq. ft. of quartz slab.
2. Select Quartz Grade & Style
Basic/Builder-Grade ($50–$70/sq. ft..):
Solid or light speckled patterns; fewer color options.
Ideal for tight budgets or rental properties.
Mid-Range ($70–$100/sq.):
Popular marble-look veining; balanced performance.
Good fit for most homeowner budgets.
Premium ($100–$150+/sq. ft.):
High-contrast veins, unique colorways, and long-term investment.
Suited for luxury homes or statement islands.
3. Factor in Fabrication & Labor
Edge Profile Choices:
Eased Edge: $3–$6 per linear ft.; simple, cost-effective.
Beveled Edge: $5–$10 per linear ft.; adds subtle detail.
Bullnose/Grid Edge: $8–$15 per linear ft.; classic look.
Ogee/Waterfall: $12–$25 per linear ft.; premium, luxurious finish.
Cutouts & Sink Options:
Drop-In Sink: $100–$200 per cutout.
Undermount Sink: $150–$300 per cutout (requires precise cuts).
Specialty Cutouts (e.g., cooktop, pot filler): $75–$150 each.
Installation Labor:
$10–$30 per sq. ft. for standard installation (leveling cabinets, placing slabs, sealing seams).
Additional $150–$300 per seam if using color-matched epoxy for nearly invisible seams.
Cabinet Preparation:
$200–$600 for shimming, reinforcing, or adding plywood backer for heavy 3 cm slabs.
Skipping reinforcement can lead to bowed cabinets and eventual countertop damage.
4. Include Removal & Disposal Fees
Existing Counter Removal:
$5–$15 per sq. ft. for professional removal.
DIY removal saves money but may require extra time and caution.
Disposal:
Some installers include disposal; otherwise, expect $50–$200 depending on slab weight and local landfill fees.
5. Add Delivery & Handling
Local Delivery:
$100–$200 per slab within a 50-mile radius.
Scheduling may require a 1–2 week lead time for slab arrival.
White-Glove Service:
$300–$600 for on-site handling, slab storage, and final placement.
Recommended for high-end or complex installations where slab integrity is critical.
6. Optional Extras & Maintenance
Backsplash Integration:
Matching quartz backsplash: same material cost ($50–$150/sq ft) and installation labor.
Tile backsplash alternative: $10–$30/sq. Ft.; often chosen to reduce costs.
Polishing & Sealing (if desired):
Polishing for extra sheen: $2–$6 per sq. ft.
Sealing is not required for quartz, but it can be applied for surface protection.
Warranty Packages:
Extended warranty (5–10 years) ranging from $200–$500.
Covers manufacturer defects and certain stains or chips.
installing quartz kitchen countertops
FAQ
Below are detailed answers to frequently asked questions about quartz countertop installation and comparisons to other surfaces.
1. How much should I expect to pay for quartz countertop installation?
Expect to pay $50–$150 per square foot installed in 2025, including both material and labor. A standard 30 sq. ft. kitchen costs around $1,800–$4,500 for mid-range quartz and $3,000–$7,500 for premium styles. High-end, custom installations (bookmatched slabs, waterfall edges) can exceed $10,000.
2. How much is labor for installing countertops?
Professional installers typically charge $10–$30 per square foot for labor alone. Simple countertop replacements with minimal custom work fall toward the $10/sq. fFt.range, while complex jobs (multiple seams, custom cutouts, premium edges) command $25–$30/sq. Ft. Others quote hourly rates of $35–$85/hr, with a typical kitchen requiring 4–8 hours of labor .
3. How much is 30 square feet of quartz countertops?
Material Only: $50–$150 per sq. ft. × 30 = $1,500–$4,500.
Labor: $10–$30 per sq. ft. × 30 = $300–$900.
Total Installed: $1,800–$5,400 for mid-range to premium quartz. Allow extra for cabinet prep, removal, and cutouts (e.g., kitchen sink). .. What is cheaper to install: granite or quartz?
Typically, granite is slightly cheaper for material ($40–$100/sq ft) compared to quartz ($50–$150/sq ft). However, labor costs are similar ($10–$30/sq ft.), and Quartz’s non-porous nature can save sealing costs over time, while granite needs annual sealing. In initial outlay, consider granite if budget is tight; quartz is preferable if you want uniform patterns and minimal maintenance.
5. Can you put hot pans on quartz?
No. Quartz can withstand about 150–300°F before the resin binder softens or discolors. Always use trivets or hot pads. Prolonged exposure to high heat (e.g., boiling pots directly on the surface) can cause cracking or burn marks . Granite, by contrast, can handle much higher heat safely.
6. Does Home Depot install countertops?
Yes. Home Depot offers countertop installation services, including quartz, granite, and laminate. When you purchase quartz from Home Depot, professional installation is bundled in or quoted separately. They partner with local licensed installers; installation costs align with market rates ($10–$30/s. ft.).
7 . What lasts longer: quartz or granite?
Both are very durable. Granite (igneous rock) handles extreme heat and heavy impact better; it rates 6–7 on the Mohs scale and is nearly impervious to heat. Quartz (engineered with 93–95% quartz) also rates ~6–7 but can’t tolerate extreme heat (150–300°F max). Quartz resists scratches and stains more effectively, whereas granite requires sealing. In everyday kitchens, both last a lifetime; maintenance preferences often determine which is more suitable.
8. What is the most expensive countertop?
Rare natural stones like Carrara Extra, Calacatta Premium Marble, and Blue Bahia Granite can exceed $100–$200 per square foot for slabs alone. High-tech surfaces like Dekton ultracompact porcelain and Lapitec sintered stone also top $100/sq. ft. installed. Among engineered materials, designer quartz lines (e.g., Cambria’s premium collections) can cost $150+/sq. ft. installed. In general, exotic marble variants and limited-production stones command the highest prices.
9. Which is prettier: granite or quartz?
Aesthetic preference is subjective. Granite offers unique, natural variations—no two slabs are identical, with patterns ranging from speckles to veins. Quartz provides controlled, consistent patterns (including marble-like veins) and a uniform color through the slab. For those who want one-of-a-kind organic looks, granite shines. For seamless uniformity or marble mimicry without maintenance, many modern homeowners prefer quartz.
10. Which adds more value: granite or quartz?
Both add significant home value. In the early 2000s, granite was king. Today, quartz often edges out granite in resale appeal due to its durability and “newness” in the market. Real estate agents report that home buyers increasingly prefer quartz over granite, especially in higher-end homes . However, either stone is preferred over budget options (laminate, tile), and local market preferences vary. For consistent ROI, choose a stone that matches the home’s style.
11. Do home buyers prefer granite or quartz?
Current trends show quartz outpacing granite in buyer preference, especially in urban and luxury markets. In a 2024 real estate survey, 65% of agents said buyers requested quartz first, while 45% requested granite . Quartz’s non-porous, low-maintenance qualities and marble-like patterns appeal to buyers. Granite still commands respect, especially for traditional or rustic designs, but quartz has become the new “must-have” for modern kitchens.
12. Which is harder to maintain: quartz or granite?
Quartz is far easier: non-porous, never needs sealing, and resists stains and bacteria. Granite is porous, requires annual sealing, and can etch or stain if not properly maintained. If minimal upkeep is paramount, quartz is the superior choice.
13. Is quartz expensive to install?
Relative to other materials, yes—quartz installation runs $50–$150 per sq. ft. installed. This is higher than basics like laminate ($10–$40/sq. Ft. but comparable to high-end granite ($70–$120/sq. ft.). Qartz commands a premium due to material consistency, durability, and brand value. For homeowners seeking a long-lasting, low-maintenance surface, the higher cost is often justified.
cost of quartz kitchen countertops installed
14. Which is more heat resistant, quartz or granite?
Granite is more heat-resistant. Granite can handle temperatures up to 1,650°F, whereas quartz can only tolerate up to 150–300°F before damage. Always use trivets on quartz; placing hot pans directly is discouraged.
15. Does quartz stain more than granite?
No—quartz stains less because it’s non-porous. Granites can absorb colored liquids (wine, coffee) if sealing is inadequate. Quartz resists stains without sealing, making it superior for spill-heavy kitchens.
16. How much heat can quartz tolerate?
Up to 150–300°F; exceeding that can cause the resin binder to melt or discolor. Always use a heat pad or trivet under hot cookware to protect quartz surfaces.
17. Can you put hot pans on granite?
Yes—granite can tolerate very high temperatures (up to ~1,650°F). While using trivets is recommended to protect your hands and utensils, granite itself is heat-resistant enough for direct hot pans without risk of cracking.
18. Is Corian better than quartz?
Quartz generally outperforms Corian (solid surface) in hardness, scratch resistance, and heat tolerance. Corian ($40–$65/sq. ft.) can scratch and scorch more easily, though minor damage can be sanded out. Quartz is more durable and resists stains and heat far better, though it’s more expensive upfront. In most kitchen applications, quartz is regarded as the superior long-term investment.
Conclusion
Installing quartz kitchen countertops requires careful budgeting for both material and labor. In 2025, expect to pay $50–$150+ per square foot for quartz slabs, with $10–$30 per square foot for professional installation. A standard 30–40 sq. ft. kitchen remodel typically costs $1,800–$8,000 installed, depending on quartz grade, edge profiles, and custom cutouts. While quartz is generally more expensive than granite, its durability, uniform appearance, and low maintenance make it a top choice for modern homeowners. When planning your project, obtain multiple estimates, verify slab quality in person, and account for extras like removal, delivery, and cabinet reinforcement. Ultimately, quartz countertops elevate your kitchen’s aesthetic and add significant long-term value, making them a worthwhile investment.
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