Is Solid Surface Less Expensive Than Quartz?

Solid surface and quartz countertops provide homeowners with many unique advantages and look great in just about any home. If you’re on the fence about which option to consider, it is a good idea to break down the various factors that affect their cost. We’ll look at solid surface durability and solid surface maintenance versus quartz and break down their costs.

Factors That Affect Cost

Let’s just say right away that quartz will have a higher initial installation and material cost than solid surface countertops. Quartz is simply a costlier material and installing it is trickier than solid surface, meaning that you will pay more. But there are other factors that can affect your price, including:

  • Material durability, including how well it holds up under heat and cutting surfaces
  • Overall maintenance, including what steps you need to keep your countertops strong
  • Lifespan, as you may find yourself replacing some countertops sooner than others

So, before saying outright that quartz is more expensive than solid surface, let’s break down a few of the most important factors here. Let’s start by looking at solid surface durability compared to quartz and whether you’re getting a better deal by buying the less-expensive option.

Durability

Simply put, quartz countertops are tougher than solid surface materials. Solid surface durability is nowhere near as high, as quartz is one of the strongest counter options on the market. Does that mean that solid surface will wear down in just a few years? Not at all.

It does mean that you need to be more careful with them and avoid putting hot pots on their surface or cutting with knives on them. Here’s something cool about solid surfaces, though. You can easily sand away minor imperfections to make them smooth again. That increases their durability.

Maintenance

Quartz countertops are non-porous and don’t need to be sealed to keep them strong. Solid countertops are also non-porous, though, meaning they don’t need a lot of maintenance either. They will need occasional shining, which may slightly reduce thickness. That said, the minor increase in maintenance doesn’t heavily affect solid surface lifespan and only costs a small amount more every year than quartz.

Installation Costs

Quartz countertops not only cost more per slab but are harder to install. Few people have the tools necessary to add them to their homes, and they may cause serious damage if they don’t install them properly. You also need a special epoxy to fill the seams, which adds to the price further.

By contrast, solid surface counters are very easy to install, and most homeowners can probably do it themselves. That cuts down on your labor costs significantly. In fact, it might cost hundreds of dollars off your installation price alone.

Final Verdict

While quartz has many advantages and likely lasts longer than solid surface for homeowners, the lower installation price and cheaper materials make solid surface the less expensive option. Both provide great protection, making either a strong option for you.