Quartz countertops are one of the best options if you want to remodel your kitchen, bathroom, or fireplace surround with a low-maintenance and durable material. Unlike granite and marble, which are natural stone, quartz is a man-made material manufactured with pure quartz, pigments, and polyester resins.
In this article, we take you through factors to consider before opting for quartz countertops. We also break down the costs of quartz countertops, buying, installation, and how to care for them.
What to Consider Before Installing Quartz Countertops
Installing quartz countertops is an expensive project that requires detailed planning and consideration. Here are three factors to consider before contacting a contractor:
Budget
Quartz countertops cost more than other materials like laminate or tile. You also have to factor in the cost of hiring a professional contractor to install the countertop. So, before choosing a quartz countertop for your kitchen or bathroom remodel, you should get an estimate and compare it with your budget.
If getting high quality materials is out of your budget, then go for other less expensive, but durable alternatives.
Design
If you want a beautiful kitchen or bathroom with low maintenance, quartz is a great option. It is also available in many patterns, giving you a wide range of options. However, you must consider the color, size, and design of the room you’re remodeling.
As a general contractor who has worked on many home remodel project and installed different types of quartz countertops, here are my three top design picks:
White Quartz
This countertop is ideal if you want to create a sparkling, clean look that elevates your bathroom aesthetics. White Quartz is a classic choice to pair with a white subway tile backsplash in contemporary and minimalist bathrooms design. Some options to consider include Cosmos White Zen, Silestone Statuario Suede, and Cambria’s Everleigh.
Marble-Look Quartz
These quartz countertops capture the stunning veins of real marble, offering a similar look with the added benefit of quartz’s durability. It’s a great choice for a fireplace surround if you want to give your living room a luxurious and elegant appearance. Some brand options include Vadara Calacatta Dorada, MSI Calacatta Clara Quartz, and Calacatta Botanica Quartz. 
Concrete-Look Quartz
This type of quartz countertop gives the kitchen an edgy, contemporary aesthetic. It’s best used in industrial-style kitchens when you need the urban appeal of concrete and durability. Some brand options include Cloudburst Concrete Quartz, Babylon Gray Concrete Finish Quartz, and Concerto Quartz.
Family Lifestyle
Quartz is durable and low-maintenance, making it ideal for kitchens with heavy usage. If you host family dinners or have friends over often, installing quartz countertops is a great option. They’re easy to clean and don’t require regular sealing like natural stone.
However, if you prefer to put hot pans on your countertop surface, quartz might not be the best option. Constantly exposing it to direct heat, like hot pans, will damage the surface.
Cost of Quartz Countertops for Major Brands in Houston, Texas
The average cost of quartz countertops in a remodeling project is about $2,000-$6,000. This amount includes the cost of countertop per square foot ($50- 200) and labor ($25-$40 per sqft). Here’s the quartz countertop price for some major brands
Brand | Price Range (per square foot) |
Caesarstone | $50 – $150 |
Cambria | $60 – $150 |
Corian Quartz | $60 – $100 |
Silestone | $50 – $120 |
HanStone Quartz | $40 – $125 |
Factors that Affect Quartz Countertops Price
The cost of quartz countertops, after installation, depends on these factors:
- The total square feet of installed material
- Slab thickness – typically 2 cm or 3 cm.
- Edge treatments – special edge details like ogee or mitered cuts cost more.
- Sink and cooktop cutouts
- Removing and disposing of old countertops
- Delivery costs
- Contractor markup
- Waterfall edge – this type of countertop extends down the cabinet or island to the floor, which increases the labor and material costs.
How to Maintain Quartz Countertops to Eliminate Stains and Cracks
Want to enjoy your kitchen quartz countertops as long as possible? Here are the maintenance tips to follow to enhance its durability:
- Clean spills instantly with a damp cloth and disinfect them to keep them bacterial-free.
- Stick to mild dish soap, non-abrasive cleaners, and water to maintain a sparkling surface. Using harsh chemicals, acidic cleaners, and abrasive scrubbing pads can cause discoloration and damage the surface.
- Always use trivets or hot pads to prevent direct contact between hot pots and pans and the quartz surface.
- Use cutting boards to prevent scratches and dulling of knives. The hard quartz surface can damage knife blades.
Hire a General Contractor in Houston, Texas to Install Quartz Countertops
Installing Quartz Countertops is a worthwhile investment for your home. The durability and aesthetic appeal make it a preferred choice to granite, marble, and other natural stone countertops. With regular cleaning and maintenance, your countertops can last up to 30 years without cracks or sealing.
However, the installation process plays a vital role in the final look. That’s why it’s advisable to hire a general contractor to install your quartz countertops. Hiring a contractor gives you access to cost estimates, professional advice, and support to ensure the project turns out exactly the way you want it.
Get a free estimate from Matt Baker Contracting to start your kitchen remodeling project in Houston, Texas.
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A clear and concise guide to quartz countertops—practical and easy to follow!