How Much Do Quartzite Countertops Cost In 2024
Choosing the right countertop materials can transform the functionality and appearance of your kitchen. It is one of the most important decisions during the remodeling project. Quartzite countertops, known for their versatility, can combine beauty and durability. They have become a prevalent choice due to these amazing qualities.
Although the choice of countertop material is determined by aesthetic and practical factors, these aren’t the only things homeowners consider. The cost is a very important part of any remodeling project. The question of how much do quartzite countertops cost in 2024 is one of the primary questions.
The answer to this question might be deceivingly complicated. As there are so many different factors and variables with the countertops selection, such as the quality or the thickness of the slab, learning about the possible costs requires a deep dive.
Introduction to Quartzite Countertops
Before learning more about how much quartzite countertops cost in 2024, it is important to have a deep understanding of what kind of material quartzite is and how it differs from other options.
Quartzite is a natural stone formed under immense pressure and heat within the crust of the earth. It is the result of millions of years of natural crystallization. The result is an incredibly dense and visually appealing stone.
Quartzite is known for its similar appearance to marble. Marble is known for its beauty and elegance. However, it is also very high maintenance. Therefore, quartzite, which can embody the same elegance while being much more user-friendly, is bound to be popular.
Quartzite has distinct veins that make up its signature look. These veins can add subtle elegance and visual interest to the space without being too overwhelming. Quartzite is also available in a wide range of colors. Although light and neutral colors such as light gray, cream, and beige are the most common shades, brighter and bolder hues are also possible to find in more exotic slabs.
Factors Influencing the Price of Quartzite Countertops
Several key factors will influence the price of your new quartzite countertops. Understanding these factors will help you decide which ones take priority and which ones you can compromise on to stay loyal to your budget.
The rarity and the type of quartzite you are interested in are arguably the most influential factors that will determine the final cost of the renovation. Some types of quartzite slabs are much more rare and exotic. Therefore they are harder to obtain, making them more expensive than common quartzite styles. Regardless of which countertop material you are interested in, the uniqueness of the slab will drive up the costs.
The size and thickness of the slab are the second most important factors to keep in mind. The standard quartzite slab will be 2 to 3 cm thick. Thicker slabs will feel more substantial and have a more up-scale look once they are installed in your kitchen or bathroom. However, for these countertops, you would also need stronger cabinets. In other words, opting for a thinner slab might be the best choice for older or more frail cabinetry.
The finish of the countertops will also determine the price. A high gloss finish is the standard one and it wil be the most budget-friendly option. On the other hand, a honed finish will create a matte look and give the space an understated and sophisticated aura. A leathered finish will lend an interesting texture to the room and bring the eyes towards itself. As these finishes cost more, you should decide if they make sense in your home and whether they are worth the splurge.
Edge profiles can truly transform the appearance of the countertops. However, as quartzite is a very hard and dense stone, more intricate profiles are harder to achieve, thus cost more. A straight profile will create a minimal look, and it will be cost-efficient. Ogee or similarly intricate profiles can add $10 to $20 per square foot.
The installation location and the shipping costs should also be considered. If you live in an area where quartzite is abundant, the prices are more likely to be affordable. On the other hand, if you have to ship the slab from other locations, such as Italy or Brazil, you can expect to pay more.
Quartzite Costs per Square Foot in 2024
The cost of quartzite countertops can vary depending on the factors mentioned above. But if you are wondering how much do quartzite countertops cost in 2024, here is an average estimate of what you can expect to pay.
The average cost of quartzite countertops is about $80 to $150 per square foot. This price includes the stone itself and the installation costs. For high-end or exotic quartzite slabs you can expect the price to be somewhere between $200 to $300 per square foot.
An average kitchen requires about 50 square feet of countertop material, meaning the total cost of the countertops can be anywhere between $4,000 to $15,000 or even more. While this estimate is a rough guide, it should also show you the wide price range for quartzite countertops. If you have a strict budget you must adhere to, consulting with a stone supplier is the best course of action as they will assist you and show the best options for your budget.
Keep in mind that these estimates don’t include any customization or personalization of the countertops. Any additional fixtures, ornate details, or different finishes will count as extra and they will be charged separately from the cost of the stone and the installation.
Installation Costs
When shopping for new countertops, labor costs can often be seen as secondary. Nonetheless, installing these very hard and heavy stones is very labor-intensive and takes a lot of expertise. The cost of installation is also calculated per square foot and it can cost between $30 to $90 depending on the experience and skill level of the installer.
Professional installation will ensure that the stone is cut to the exact measurements of your kitchen. An ill-fitting countertops won’t be long-lasting nor will it be very functional for you. Moreover, a skilled installer will properly seal the stone, making sure it is ready for use.
Don’t forget that quartzite is one of the densest and hardest stones used in home improvement projects. It has a 7 on the Mohs scale or hardness, making it even harder than granite. In other words, it needs careful handling. A DIY installation isn’t recommended because trying to save on the installation might end up costing you more because of cracking or breakage of the stone.
Correctly installed countertops will be more long-lasting and more visually pleasing. Think of your new quartzite countertops as an investment in your future peace of mind.
Customization Options
Different customization options might seem fun and exciting, but they can also drive up costs significantly in the blink of an eye. Small customizations and personal touches are a great way of making the countertops stand out and be memorable. These are some of the most common customization options that also affect the pricing.
We have already mentioned edge profiles and different finishing options. Similarly, backsplashes are an area that can transform the look of the countertops and tie the whole room together. Depending on the complexity of the design, backsplashes can range from $25 to $50 per square foot. The price of the backsplashes is also dependent on their height. A full-height backsplash design that extends from the countertop level to the bottom of the upper cabinets will be more costly than shorter ones.
Integrated sinks are another feature that will finish the countertops beautifully. An integrated quartzite sink will create a seamless and modern look in your kitchen. However, this addition requires more quartzite and needs a lot of precise fabrication. These factors result in higher material and labor costs. An integrated sink can add as much as $1,000 to the total cost.
Quartzite Compared to Other Countertop Materials
Trying the decide which stone is the best fit for your home is a hard decision. To tackle this issue, comparing quartzite to different options is a helpful way of breaking down all of its advantages and disadvantages.
Granite is often compared to quartzite due to its durability and hardness. Both quartzite and granite are very long-lasting materials. Granite is often more affordable than quartzite and comes in a very wide range of color and pattern options. However, it lacks the versatility and elegance that makes quartzite such a fan favorite. Also, it is slightly less heat resistant than quartzite.
Marble and quartzite have similar visual characteristics. They are both known for sophisticated veining patterns. However, marble has an almost transparent quality that makes the stone appear as if it is glowing from within. On the other hand, quartzite is much more durable and much easier to take care of than marble. Therefore, if you are interested in installing countertops in a high-traffic area, quartzite is the most reliable option.
Quartz and quartzite are often confused with each other due to their similar names. Quartzite is a completely natural stone, whereas quartz is a half-engineered stone. Quartz is made up of crushed quartzite mixed with resins, pigments, and binders. The added pigments allow quartz to be made into every color and pattern imaginable. The resins remove the need to reseal the stone. Nevertheless, quartzite has an organic and earthy feel that is impossible to replicate. It is also heat and UV-resistant.
In short, to find out the answer to the question of how much quartzite countertops will cost in 2024, you should first learn about quartzite and its qualities. Quartzite offers a blend of natural beauty, durability, and versatility. Understanding the factors that contribute to the final price will help you determine which customizations or qualities are must-haves and which ones you can forego to balance your budget with your design goals.
Originally from the U.S, Rana Tarakji is an SEO Analyst, the founder of One SEO, a multinational link building company, and the author of “Off-site SEO Guide: A Hands-on SEO Tutorial for Beginners & Dummies”, and a web content specialist who now lives in Beirut, Lebanon. Rana’s work has been published in many print and online magazines and newspapers, such as Entrepreneur, Life Hacker, Upwork, Christian Today, and many more.
