Quartz is the surface of the moment.
Durable, easy to look after, non-porous, scratch and heat resistant, they’re every bit as practical as they are attractive.
But how much do they cost?
This is a question we get asked a lot at the Marble Store, and rightly so. Financing a new kitchen, or even just replacement worktops, is a big outlay. Knowing what to expect when it comes to your final figures is important. After all, no one wants to be hit with a bill they’re not expecting or to set their heart on a surface that’s just not going to be financially feasible.
There’s no point beating around the bush – quartz isn’t cheap.
But that doesn’t mean it’s not cost-effective or that you should dismiss the idea.
Instead, you need to know the facts. Read on to understand what you can expect from a quartz worktop, where they sit price-wise and how they compare to other surface options out there.
How much does a quartz worktop cost?
Prices for a quality quartz worktop can vary greatly.
Typically, you can expect to pay around £400 per square metre, but it can be much more – quartz countertops cost can rise to £1000 per square metre.
What affects the price of quartz worktops?
Not all quartz worktops are created equal. Choosing quartz from a reputable brand and a trusted supplier (like us!) is crucial if you’re going to get the best value for your money.
Factors that can affect the price of quartz worktops include:
1. Colour
Quartz worktops are renowned for their vast choice of colours and patterns. But the more unique the finish, the more you’re likely to pay.
To keep costs down, try to stick to more mainstream shades and designs.
2. Quantity
Okay, so we’re slightly stating the obvious here that the more quartz you need the more you will pay. But it’s worth giving this point a little more thought.
If you have your heart set on a particular quartz that doesn’t meet your budget, don’t forget you don’t have to use the same surface everywhere!
Mixing and matching colours – even surface type – can look great. For example, you could use your favourite quartz for the island unit and a different, less expensive colour for the rest of the kitchen.
3. Thickness
Quartz is often sold in a choice of thickness, commonly 20mm and 30mm.
Thicker quartz increases durability and can give you more choice when it comes to edge profiling, but if you’re keen to keep costs down, a thinner option could offer you considerable savings.
Quartz can also be bought in extra-large slabs – but if you’re okay with joins (which should be barely visible with a skilled fitter), you can save money here too.
4. Edges
Intricate cuts and profile edges will all bump the price of quartz countertops up. Keep things as simple as possible, and you’ll keep costs down.
Simplicity is also a great way to ensure you get the best value for money. You may love the look of a ‘triple pencil’ worktop edge now, but how will you feel about it in a year’s time? Thanks to quartz’s incredible durability, it pays to make choices you’re less likely to fall out with.
How do other countertops compare?
Okay, so you now know the average price for quartz countertops, but it’s worth putting that into context with other surfaces on the market.
Typical prices:
– Wooden countertops: £50 – £150 per square metre
– Granite countertops: £220 – £500 per square metre
– Marble countertops: £200 – £1000 per square metre
– Laminate countertops: prices start at around £35 per square metre
Whilst quartz countertops costs put them at the higher end of the market, you need to balance this against the longevity of the product you’re buying – and any ongoing expenses that may be attached.
For example, granite will require regular resealing – usually every 12 months. And whilst laminate is easily one of the cheapest options, it’s also the least capable of withstanding the rigours of a kitchen. One wrong move with a hot pan or knife and your new surface will be ruined.
How to keep the cost of quartz worktops down
To really minimise quartz countertop costs, you need to shop smart – taking into account more than just the colour, thickness, and edge profile. You also need to consider where you’re buying from.
At the Marble Store, we only stock quality solid surfaces and pride ourselves on offering competitive prices. Check out our Google reviews (broken link) to see what other happy customers have to say, or start shopping now.
You can view our impressive quartz collection based on your budget – so you only see surfaces within your price range. Alternatively, if you’d like a hand finding the right worktop for your kitchen – at the right price – please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
