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I just received a quote from a very reputable and trustworthy contractor for changing my ugly white formica to Silestone Quartz.
Bear in mind that it is a bit more complicated than the usual installation because the backsplash has soft large Mexican tiles that would have to be partially cut (and it could pose a problem).
Also, I would be changing the sink to more modern fixtures.
But when I received the quote, I was astonished that it was as much as $10,000.
(My kitchen isn't all that large.)
I was under the impression that Quartz would be less expensive than Granite.
Is my dream smashed or was it just this particular contractor?

Wow!! Yes, Quartz is just as pricey as granite. How many linear feet are you talking?

Keep Shopping!!!!! That seems way out of line to me. There is so much competition for business now, I'm sure you'll find a better bid.

It's hard to say whether this estimate is in the ballpark without getting two more independent estimates to compare.

Also, the scope of work is more complicated than the usual installation job because of the Mexican tile backsplash.

Yes, Silestone can rival or exceed the cost of granite. It's a brand name product made in Spain, so you are paying a premium for that, whereas the cost of granite can vary widely, depending on the vendors and sources of the product.

You can also try Cambria, which is a USA-made quartz product to see if you can get a better price per installed linear feet. http://www.cambriausa.com/

Bottom line: get two more estimates. And, good luck.

Check out the breakdown of material vs. installation.Prices do vary, but in my area the lowest grade quartz prices the same as a mid grade granite.

Linear?? Whatever that means, I measured the entire width of each section and came up with approximately 214 inches.
Here is the proposal if it helps:

Oops! I don't think they are letting me post this. Wonder why I can no longer post colors or downloads.

It seems very high to me, but the only way you'll know if the quote is unreasonable for certain is if you have other quotes for comparison. My gut reaction is that the contractor doesn't want the job and is trying to price his quote out of consideration. If you choose his quote anyway, he wants to make sure he'll be well compensated for the hassle factor involved in the project.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Jewel,

Jewel:
I know this person. He has worked for many friends before me with great success because he's tops at what he does.
I e-mailed him to thank him for his kindness in coming out and also sending me a proposal. He e-mailed back thanking me anyway for thinking of him and wished me good luck.
He doesn't need my business, believe me. He is very busy and maybe you are right -- the job was more extensive than normal and he was too busy to really take it on.
I am hopeful that perhaps the next person will drop the price by $5000 or else my door will be locked to me and my key gone from my keychain~!

That does seem pricey -- I agree with what everyone says -- check at least two more sources! Not everyone charges the same.

I had a quote on a project that was so "over the top" that I didn't have them do the project and would NEVER have them in to quote anything again.

But I always check at least two sources -- that way you can be sure that everyone is on the same page as far as cost goes ($100/$200 difference is no big deal -- it's when it's "thousands"!)

Martha

Yes Linderhof (and others), you are all correct.
I have two more names to consider.
I will keep you posted.
Thanks for your usual fine advice.