Quartz worktops have become a staple in modern kitchens due to their stunning appearance, durability, and low maintenance needs. However, many homeowners hesitate to choose quartz because they assume it comes with a hefty price tag. The good news? Cheap quartz worktops are more accessible than ever before, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of this luxurious material without breaking the bank.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about affordable quartz worktops—what they are, how to find the best deals, what to look out for, and how to make sure you’re getting real value for your money.
Why Choose Quartz Worktops?
Before diving into the affordable options, it’s important to understand why quartz is such a popular choice in the first place. Here’s what makes quartz stand out:
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Durability: Quartz is one of the hardest minerals on Earth. This makes quartz worktops highly resistant to scratches, chips, and stains.
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Low Maintenance: Unlike natural stones such as granite or marble, quartz is non-porous. It doesn’t require sealing and resists staining from common kitchen ingredients like wine, oil, and coffee.
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Design Variety: Available in an endless range of colours, patterns, and finishes, quartz can mimic more expensive stones or offer unique looks.
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Consistency: Since quartz worktops are engineered, the look is consistent—perfect for large surfaces where natural stone might vary too much.
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Hygienic: Being non-porous, quartz does not harbor bacteria or mold, making it a great option for kitchens and bathrooms.
What Makes a Quartz Worktop “Cheap”?
When we say cheap quartz worktops, we don’t mean poor quality. We mean affordable options that give you the same luxurious feel and durability without the premium price tag. The lower cost can come from:
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Lower cost brands: Some manufacturers offer quartz surfaces at a lower price due to mass production or lower marketing costs.
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Thinner slabs: 20mm slabs tend to be cheaper than thicker 30mm options.
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Fewer customizations: A standard edge profile or basic colour can reduce fabrication costs.
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Offcuts and remnants: Leftover pieces from larger projects can be sold at a discount.
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Bulk discounts: Buying quartz worktops through a kitchen company or buying in bulk for multiple projects can help reduce the price.
Average Cost of Quartz Worktops in the UK
The cost of quartz worktops in the UK can vary depending on several factors, including brand, colour, thickness, and installation complexity. On average:
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Standard quartz worktops: £250 – £400 per square metre
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Luxury quartz brands (e.g., Silestone, Caesarstone): £400 – £600+ per square metre
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Cheap quartz worktops: £150 – £250 per square metre
By targeting the £150–£250 range, you can enjoy high-quality quartz at an affordable price point.
Tips for Finding Cheap Quartz Worktops
Here are some proven tips to help you save money on quartz countertops:
1. Shop Around and Compare Quotes
Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Prices can vary significantly between suppliers and regions. Use online comparison tools, or request multiple quotes from local suppliers.
2. Consider Local Fabricators
National chains often have higher overhead costs. Local stone fabricators or independent workshops may offer better prices for the same or even better quality worktops.
3. Look for Offcuts or Remnants
These are leftover pieces from previous installations. If your kitchen worktop needs are small or standard, offcuts can be a huge money-saver while still giving you the luxury of quartz.
4. Choose Standard Colours
Neutral colours like white, black, or grey tend to be cheaper. More exotic or rare patterns can increase the price dramatically.
5. Opt for a Thinner Slab
A 20mm quartz worktop is often cheaper than a 30mm one. If your design allows, this is a simple way to cut costs without sacrificing durability.
6. Simplify Your Design
Avoid complex edges, curves, or cut-outs for sinks and hobs. The simpler your design, the less labour and cost involved.
Affordable Quartz Worktop Brands
Some brands are known for offering good quality at a lower price. Here are a few to consider:
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Unistone
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Classic Quartz Stone
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BQS (British Quartz Surface)
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Technistone
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Lusso Stone
These brands may not have the same prestige as Caesarstone or Silestone, but they still offer great performance and design at a fraction of the cost.
Where to Buy Cheap Quartz Worktops
1. Online Retailers
Websites like Worktop Express, The Marble Store, and Stone Synergy often run deals or have clearance sections.
2. Local Kitchen Fitters
Some kitchen companies have direct access to affordable quartz and can pass on the savings to you when you use them for installation.
3. DIY and Home Improvement Stores
Large chains like B&Q, Wickes, and Homebase sometimes carry budget-friendly quartz or offer seasonal discounts.
Common Misconceptions About Cheap Quartz Worktops
Let’s clear up some myths that often stop people from choosing affordable quartz options:
❌ Cheap Means Poor Quality
Not true. Many affordable quartz surfaces are manufactured in the same factories as premium brands. The main difference is branding, not performance.
❌ It Won’t Last Long
Quartz is inherently durable. Even budget-friendly quartz worktops can last 15+ years with proper care.
❌ Limited Design Options
While high-end brands offer the latest designs, budget quartz now comes in a wide variety of colours and patterns, including marble and concrete effects.
Pros and Cons of Cheap Quartz Worktops
✅ Pros
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Affordable luxury
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Durable and long-lasting
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Low maintenance
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Stylish and modern
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Stain and scratch resistant
⚠️ Cons
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Fewer customization options
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Less brand prestige
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May have fewer warranties or shorter guarantee periods
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Thin slabs may feel less substantial
Maintenance Tips for Quartz Worktops
To make the most of your quartz investment, follow these care tips:
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Clean regularly with mild soap and water
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Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or abrasive cleaners
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Use chopping boards to protect the surface from knife marks
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Wipe up spills quickly, especially acidic ones like lemon juice or vinegar
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Use heat pads under hot pots and pans—quartz is heat resistant but not heatproof
Final Thoughts:
Absolutely. If you want the benefits of quartz—durability, beauty, and ease of maintenance—without paying a premium, cheap quartz worktops are a smart investment. By knowing where to look, what to choose, and how to maintain it, you can enjoy all the luxury of quartz without overspending.
Whether you’re renovating a rental property, updating your forever home, or flipping a house, a budget-friendly quartz countertop can elevate the look and feel of your kitchen dramatically.
