Kitchen Back Splash - Tile vs Quartz or Granite?

[Debbie Zimmer]

Hi - 

We just completed our first flip and will be beginning reno on our second.  We didn't make any money on our first one due to the high, high cost of labor (we are partnering with a seasoned contractor who pays his guys well).  One of the trades that we spend a lot on was the tiler.  The kitchen back splash was the most expensive and time consuming.  Has anyone put up slabs of quartz vs tile for their back splash?  It it more cost effective?  How do buyers respond?   We are trying to get our costs down for this second one, while still keeping it as a high-end renovation.  

[Cara Lonsdale]

You'd think so, huh?!  It would make sense for it to be cheaper since it is a slab being placed in 1 motion VS. individual tiles installed.  However, that is NOT the case.  Slabs have to be fabricated, and sized to your space.  And fabricators still charge you by the sq ft.  Here in the PHX market, you could get a cheap but competent fabricator for $27 per sq ft.

Instead, I would consider shopping your contractor, or at least the tile guy.  Start with a small space to test out the work before giving them a whole project.  Don't just settle for pictures they send you of past jobs unless they are IN the pix!  lol.  Too many people try and pass off before and after photos as their own.

Another idea that might save some money is considering a sheet of material instead of tile or hard stone.  Home Depot and Lowes sell sheeting.  They have different metal type sheets with varying designs and finished textures.  If this is just a quick flip or low end rental, it might give you a fresh look for less cost.

Best of luck to you!