How much do real countertops cost?
Countertop costs depend on the material you choose, how much you need and labor costs in your area. On the low end, you can expect to pay about $11 per square foot. If you opt for a more expensive, durable material, you could pay upwards of $200 per square foot.
Here’s a look at the cost of installing different types of countertops:
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Material
|
Cost per sq. ft.
|
|
Ceramic tile
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$11-$18
|
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Laminate or formica
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$27-$34
|
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Wood (butcher block)
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$34-$41
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|
Engineered stone
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$35-$77
|
|
Granite
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$40-$200
|
|
Concrete
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$52-$93
|
|
Quartz
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$74-$99
|
|
Stainless steel
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$175-$200
|
Before committing to a countertop material, contact local countertop installation pros on Thumbtack. They can help you understand the pros and cons for each type as well as the cost.
What is the most affordable countertop?
In general, ceramic and laminate countertops are the most affordable options. Ceramic tile countertops cost approximately $11-$18 per square foot, and laminate counters cost an estimated $27-$34 per square foot.
Laminate counters come in many colors and textures. They often mimic more expensive materials like granite or soapstone.
Ceramic tile countertops are somewhat DIY-friendly for homeowners who want to handle their countertop installation. However, you should have some experience setting tiles before you attempt this option.
Which type of countertop is best?
The best type of countertop for you depends on your budget and design preferences. Granite counters are popular because they’re elegant, durable and difficult to replicate with synthetic materials. Granite wears well and requires very little maintenance. When it’s treated with a quality sealer, it’s almost maintenance-free, as well.
While granite has been a top choice for kitchen remodels over the years, you have a number of other choices, as well. Here are some of the benefits of different types of countertops:
- Ceramic tile: Affordable and DIY-friendly.
- Concrete: Durable, scratch-resistant and customizable.
- Engineered stone: More stain-resistant than natural stone and easy to clean.
- Laminate: Affordable with many color and design options.
- Marble: Beautiful appearance and heat-resistant.
- Stainless steel: Stain-resistant and easy to install.
- Quartz: Variety of colors and design.
- Wood: Warm and beautiful appearance, with a variety of wood types to choose from.
When contacting countertop professionals near you, you can also ask for their advice on which type of countertop will work best for your budget and goals.
What is the most durable type of countertop?
Quartz is one of the most durable countertop materials. It's made of crushed quartz stone and polymers to create a tough surface that looks like natural stone but is extremely durable.
What is the easiest countertop to maintain?
Laminate is one of the easiest countertop materials to maintain because it’s non-porous and easy to clean with mild soap and water.
How can I save money on countertops?
Saving money on countertops is possible. Here are some ways to cut costs:
- Stick to materials that are below your budget (think: laminate or tile).
- Shop around when choosing materials and hiring a pro (get estimates from at least three different professionals).
- Keep the extra costs (plumbing hook-ups, sinks, faucets, etc.) in mind. In some cases, you may want to handle these aspects separately.
Talk with a local countertop installation pro about how to keep your countertop costs down. They may have suggestions about which lower-priced materials will meet your needs without sacrificing style.
