Choosing the right countertop material is one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make regarding kitchen renovations. In recent years, quartz countertops have experienced a surge in popularity, and it’s no surprise why. They offer a perfect blend of beauty, durability, and most importantly, low maintenance, which should put your mind at ease about upkeep. However, with a wide array of colors available, it can be challenging to select the one that best suits your needs. In this guide, we’ll delve into the three most important factors regarding quartz countertops to help you make the best decision about your kitchen renovation.
It would be best if you considered these factors when choosing the quartz countertops;
- Style of your kitchen
- Cost of quartz countertops
- Benefits of quartz for a functional kitchen
Popular Quartz Countertop Colors
Arctic White Quartz
Sparkling Black Quartz
Smoked Pearl Quartz
Fossil Brown Quartz
What Is Quartz?
Quartz is a natural mineral found abundantly on Earth. In its purest form, it’s a complex and crystalline substance. However, the quartz used for countertops isn’t extracted directly from the Earth; it’s engineered or manufactured using a blend of natural quartz crystals, resins, and pigments.
Quartz Countertops for Your Style
1. Warm Tones Quartz Countertops
Warm tones quartz countertops offer a cozy and inviting addition to any home. With soft, warm, and light colors reminiscent of sepia-inspired whites, these countertops feature earth-toned veins that mimic the natural beauty of the stone. Whether you prefer a traditional or modern aesthetic, these versatile neutrals complement any design style. They look stunning on large kitchen islands or in smaller bathroom spaces, adding warmth and character to any room. From the subtle movement of Calacatta Arno and Calacatta Verona to the bold veins of Portico Cream and Calacatta Laza, each countertop option brings a touch of elegance to your space. With their family-friendly durability, warm tones of quartz countertops are perfect for creating your dream kitchen or bathroom. Imagine the endless design possibilities with these versatile countertops.
Warm Tone Kitchen
Calacatta Gold Quartz
2. Timeless Luxury with Quartz That Looks Like Marble
Create a timeless luxury kitchen by choosing marble-look quartz countertops. Quartz that looks like marble mimicking the elegance of marble with realistic veining and captivating movement. These marble look quartz options offer the perfect blend of style and durability. Whether you prefer the understated charm of Carrara Marmi™ or the bold aesthetic of Blanca Arabescato®, marble-like quartz instantly transforms any kitchen, bathroom, or other living space into a sophisticated haven. Experience the elegance of marble without the maintenance concerns, and enjoy a lasting upgrade to your home with marble look quartz countertops.
Marble Look Quartz
Marquina Midnight Quartz
3. Industrial-Style Kitchen with Concrete and Matte Looks Quartz
Transform your kitchen into an industrial-style haven with concrete and matte quartz countertops. From cool grays to striking blacks, these countertops offer a smooth, velvety texture that looks and feels luxurious. A low-sheen, silky-smooth alternative to polished quartz, they are instant conversation starters in any home. Achieve a realistic concrete effect without sacrificing durability, easy-care convenience, or superior stain and germ resistance. Experience the perfect blend of style and functionality with concrete and matte quartz countertops, elevating your kitchen to new heights of sophistication.
Concrete and Matte Quartz
Babylon Gray Concrete Quartz
4. Contrast with Dark Color Quartz Countertops
Immerse yourself in the cozy and inviting atmosphere that color quartz countertops can create in your home. From midnight hues to twilight shades, these countertops offer a chic and moody aesthetic that can instantly transform your space. Whether you’re drawn to an edgy industrial kitchen with concrete-inspired graphites or a classic bath with polished pitch-blacks and white veins, darker shades can bring a sense of gravitas to any room. To balance the boldness, consider pairing dark countertops with pale grays or warm beiges to brighten the spectrum. Keep in mind that while dark countertops can add drama to your space, they may also make the room appear smaller and darker, so ensure ample lighting or windows to brighten the area. For a truly striking contrast, pair dark countertops with white cabinets to elevate your home’s style.
Dark Quartz with White Cabinet
Midnight Corvo Quartz
How Much is Quartz Countertops?
Quartz Countertop Installation Cost:
Quartz countertop installation costs, while varying, are generally affordable, typically ranging from $50 to $200 per square foot. The majority of these costs fall between $70 and $100 per square foot. According to the Home Depot’s Countertop Installation Cost Guide, homeowners can expect to pay around $80 per square foot for quartz countertops. This makes quartz a cost-effective choice for many. Quartz is usually sold in slabs measuring around 120 by 55 inches, and the total project cost increases with the number of slabs needed to finish the countertops.
Quartz Countertop Cost Calculator
Below is the quartz countertop cost calculator, a reliable tool that can help you estimate the cost of your quartz countertop installation project. It will allow you to estimate your quartz kitchen countertop cost accurately, fast, and easily.
Additional Expenses of Quartz Countertop Installation
When it comes to additional expenses for quartz countertop installation, there’s a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. Backsplashes, for instance, can be priced between $80 to $100 per square foot for quartz backsplashes and $25 to $50 per square foot for tile backsplashes. This flexibility allows homeowners and contractors to choose the best option for their needs.
When considering the cost of quartz countertop installation, it’s crucial to account for edge treatments and sink cutouts. Edge treatments, such as half bullnose and eased edges or bullnose and bevel edges, typically range from $30 to $60 per linear foot. Sink cutouts, which are essential for installing sinks, can incur costs ranging from $200 to $500 per cutout. These specific cost details can help homeowners and contractors make more accurate budget estimates.
Plumbing services, necessary during installation, have an average cost of $550.
Old countertop removal and haul away of existing countertops can range from $8 to $13 per square foot, with an average cost of $9 per square foot. These factors should be considered when budgeting for a quartz countertop installation project.
Summary of Quartz Countertop Installation Expenses
| Description | Cost |
|---|---|
| Quartz Countertop Installation | |
| – Cost per square foot | $50 – $200 |
| – Average cost per square foot | $70 – $100 |
| – Average cost per countertop installation | $80 per sq. ft. |
| Quartz Backsplashes | $80 – $100 per sq. ft. |
| Tile Backsplashes | $25 – $50 per sq. ft. |
| Edge Treatments | $30 – $60 per linear foot |
| Sink Cutouts | $200 – $500 per cutout |
| Basic Plumbing Disconnect and Reconnect | $550 |
| Countertop Removal and Haul Away | $8 – $13 per sq. ft. |
| Average: $9 per sq. ft. |
ROI: Quartz Countertops Installation
Investing in quartz countertop installation may seem costly upfront, but it’s also a smart investment for homeowners. According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2023 Cost vs. Value Report, kitchen remodels can yield a return on investment (ROI) ranging from 31.7% to 85.7%. While larger remodel projects may see lower returns, quartz countertops offer a solid ROI of 60%-80%. This means that not only are you enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your home, but you’re also increasing its overall value. So, while the initial expense of quartz countertop installation may seem significant, it’s ultimately a wise investment that pays off in the long run.
| Project | Job Cost | Resale Value | Cost Recouped |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minor Kitchen Remodel (Midrange) | $26,790 | $22,963 | 85.70% |
| Major Kitchen Remodel (Midrange) | $77,939 | $32,574 | 41.80% |
| Major Kitchen Remodel (Upscale) | $154,483 | $48,913 | 31.70% |
This table outlines the job cost, resale value, and cost recouped for different kitchen remodel projects based on Remodeling Magazine’s 2023 Cost vs. Value Report.
Functional Kitchen: Main Benefits of Quartz Countertops
Durability That Lasts
Durability is a top priority for kitchen countertops, and quartz delivers exceptionally in this department. Unlike marble and granite, which are porous and require sealing, quartz is non-porous. This means it won’t absorb liquids, making it highly resistant to stains. Spilled wine, tomato sauce, or coffee? No worries – a simple wipe will effortlessly remove any trace.
Scratch-Resistant
Quartz countertops are scratch-resistant, perfect for busy kitchens. While they can withstand everyday wear and tear, it’s still advisable to use cutting boards to preserve the sharpness of your knives. This simple practice ensures the longevity of your countertop and the efficiency of your kitchen tools.
Easy Maintenance
Are you tired of spending hours sealing, polishing, and worrying about the upkeep of your countertops? With quartz, those concerns are a thing of the past. Quartz countertops are virtually maintenance-free. Unlike natural stones that require periodic sealing to maintain their luster, a quick wipe with warm, soapy water is all you need to do to keep quartz looking its best. Say goodbye to expensive sealing products and time-consuming maintenance routines.
Heat And Impact Resistance
While quartz countertops are incredibly durable, it’s essential to remember that they aren’t entirely heat-proof. Placing a hot pot or pan directly onto the surface could lead to discoloration or warping. Always use trivets or heat-resistant pads to protect your quartz countertops from high temperatures to be safe.
Regarding impact resistance, quartz can handle the daily kitchen hustle and bustle. However, it’s best to avoid dropping heavy objects on it, as extreme force could lead to chipping or cracking. Prevention is the key to maintaining the pristine appearance of your countertops.
Quartz vs. Granite
Granite has no longer been the most popular choice for kitchen countertops, but how does it stack up against quartz? Both materials have their strengths, so let’s compare:
- Durability: Quartz is non-porous, making it resistant to stains, while granite kitchen countertops are porous and require sealing.
- Maintenance: Quartz is low-maintenance, while granite needs regular sealing and can be more demanding.
- Aesthetics: Quartz offers a wide range of consistent designs, while granite’s appearance can vary from slab to slab.
- Heat Resistance: Both materials can handle heat, but quartz is more heat-resistant.
Ultimately, the choice between quartz and granite comes from your preferences and priorities.
Quartz vs. Marble
Marble is renowned for its elegant and luxurious appearance. However, it comes with its own set of challenges when used as a countertop material. Here’s how quartz compares to marble:
- Durability: Quartz is less prone to scratching and staining compared to marble.
- Maintenance: Marble requires more frequent sealing and maintenance than quartz.
- Aesthetics: While marble is beloved for its unique veining, quartz offers a broader range of design options.
- Staining: Marble is susceptible to staining from acidic substances, while quartz is highly resistant.
If you adore the look of marble but want a more durable and low-maintenance option, quartz with marble-like patterns could be the perfect solution.
Quartz vs. Other Materials
Quartz isn’t just competing with natural stones like granite and marble; it’s also up against other countertop materials. Here’s how it stacks up:
- Quartz vs. Concrete: Concrete countertops are porous and require sealing, while quartz is non-porous and maintenance-free.
- Quartz vs. Wood: Wood countertops can be beautiful but require regular maintenance to prevent water damage and staining.
- Quartz vs. Laminate: Laminate countertops are budget-friendly but may not match quartz in terms of aesthetics and durability.
- Quartz vs. Tile: Tile countertops can be affordable but often have grout lines that require regular cleaning and maintenance.
When considering quartz, think about your lifestyle, design preferences, and budget to make the best choice for your kitchen.
Conclusion: How To Find Perfect Quartz Countertops for Your Kitchen
Quartz countertops are a fantastic choice for homeowners looking to upgrade their kitchens. They offer stunning aesthetics, exceptional durability, and minimal maintenance, making them a practical and stylish addition to any kitchen renovation project. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of marble, the bold patterns of granite, or a unique design, quartz countertops have something to offer. So, go ahead and transform your kitchen into a culinary haven with the beauty and functionality of quartz. Happy renovating!