How much does a quartz or granite countertop cost? What makes the price vary

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It's often the first question we hear: "How much for a quartz countertop?" The honest answer is that it depends. Not to dodge the question, but because two kitchens that look alike can require very different work. Rather than throwing out a random number, here are the things that really change the price of a stone countertop, whether you live in Sherbrooke, Coaticook or elsewhere in the Eastern Townships. With these in mind, you'll understand your quote better and be able to compare apples to apples.

1. The stone you choose

Material is the first factor. Quartz, granite and quartzite don't cost the same, and within the same family the gap between two colours can be significant. A common granite slab and a rarer one aren't sold at the same price. With quartz, veined patterns that imitate marble often cost more than solid tones. Quartzite is a natural stone prized for its marble-like look, and every slab is unique.

Our advice: first pick two or three stones you really like, then ask for a quote for each. You'll immediately see how the stone affects the total.

2. Surface area and shape

More square feet means more stone. But shape matters as much as size. A straight countertop along one wall can be cut from a single slab with little waste. An L-shaped or U-shaped countertop, or a large island, may need more than one slab, seams and more handling. Depending on how the pieces fit in the slab, there may also be more offcuts.

3. Cut-outs

Every opening in the stone takes precise work: the sink, the cooktop, the faucet, sometimes an electrical outlet in an island. An undermount sink, which mounts under the countertop, needs a cut-out with a polished edge, because you see it every day. The more cut-outs, the longer fabrication takes.

4. Edge profile

The edge is the visible border of the countertop. An eased straight edge is the simplest to make. A bevelled, half bullnose, full bullnose or ogee edge needs more shaping and polishing. On a large island, the length of edge to finish can add up. It's a detail, but it's one people notice.

5. Backsplash and other pieces

A backsplash can be a simple strip a few inches high or run all the way up to the upper cabinets. The second option adds a lot of stone. The same goes for waterfall ends on an island, window sills, or a bathroom vanity top done at the same time as the kitchen.

6. Access and installation

A stone slab is heavy. Easy ground-floor access doesn't take the same effort as a narrow staircase or a basement. The condition of the cabinets matters too: they must be level and sturdy to carry the stone. If they're already in place at templating, everything goes more smoothly.

7. Removing the old countertop

In a renovation, an old countertop sometimes has to come out before the new one goes in. Mention it in your request so the quote includes it and there are no surprises on installation day.

Comparing two quotes

When you compare quotes, check that they cover the same thing. Is templating included? Are the sink and cooktop cut-outs counted? Which edge profile is planned, and how high is the backsplash? Is installation included, and what about removing the old countertop? Two prices that look far apart often describe two different projects. A clear quote lists each of these items so you know exactly what you're paying for.

How to get a fair price

To get an accurate quote, have a few details ready:

• the shape of your countertop (straight, L, U, with or without an island) and rough measurements;
• the stone or stones you're considering;
• the type of sink and cooktop planned;
• the backsplash you want;
• your town and your timeline.

A photo of your kitchen or your cabinet maker's plan helps a lot. Final measurements are always taken in your home before cutting: that's what makes sure the stone fits your walls, which are never perfectly straight.

Let's talk about your project

At Comptoirs de granites DB, quotes are free and come with no obligation. We take the time to understand your project and give you a clear price that includes templating, fabrication and installation. Request your quote or call us at 819-446-3501.