Are you looking to spruce up your kitchen countertops?
Granite countertops add a sophisticated touch of refinedness to your home. They’re not all looks and no substance though; homes with granite counters tend to sell for more. But when you’re investing in your home, you should know the cost and if those returns are worth it in the end.
Keep reading for our guide on how much granite countertops cost so you can decide if they’re right for your home.
How Much Do Granite Countertops Cost?
For sophisticated uniqueness, while keeping a natural look, go with granite countertops. But you need to know what you’re signing up for. There is nothing worse than biting off more than you can chew with remodeling finances.
In most cases, the average cost of granite countertops sits between $2,250-$4,500. Labor will usually range from $35-$85 an hour, and the slabs themselves $45-$80 per square foot.
You then need to consider that color, texture, and pattern could hike up that price. The generic slabs could be as low as $40 per square foot. If you want something rare, unique, and exclusive, you could be looking at upwards of $100 per square foot.
On top of this, you’ll need to have professional installers who seal your countertops. This can cost anything between $150-$400. This is an extra that won’t come included in the price per square foot estimate.
What Impacts The Cost of Granite Kitchen Countertops?
Certain factors like granite countertops colors, texture, and pattern affect the cost. Let’s break it down in more detail below.
Color
Some of the most common colors that are easy to get hold of are black, gray, and white. This means popular white granite countertops and black granite countertops are less expensive.
That said, some black and white variants are less common, and command higher prices. Rare colors like red could cost you up in the top range of $90-$100 per square foot.
The cheapest options are gray, white, and green at $40-$60 per square foot. If you want a rare color that also has a unique pattern and texture, prices could go as high as $150-$200 per square foot.
Finish Texture
Polished is one of the most popular finishes for granite countertops. It’s also the cheapest option and adds a gleaming shine to your counters.
Honed finishes take a rough slab and process it with fine polishing and abrasive pads. It’s the middle of the range when it comes to cost and gives a smooth but non-shiny surface.
Leathered granite is the most expensive finish. This is because it’s not available from many suppliers, but it will give your kitchen a rustic feel.
How You’ll Install It
Granite is very functional and tough as well as looks attractive, that’s why it’s so popular. But this reliable durability means it’s heavy and dense but not fragile. If you drop it, it could cause harm to someone or damage your kitchen.
In most instances, you’ll need at least 2 people to lift the slabs, often more. Having professionals install the countertops is often the best and safest choice. Even if it costs more in labor.
Tile or Slab
The ideal choice here is granite slabs for a seamless natural stone finish. It’s the most costly option of the two though, and each slab will be at least $40 depending on the above factors.
Granite tiles aren’t as flawless with grouting seams that need resealing over time. But, they’re easier to install yourself and start from as low as $5 per square foot.
The Cost of Granite Countertops: Is It Right For You?
So, there you have it! Now you know how much granite countertops cost, you’ll know if they’re right for you.
Think about what you want from your countertops and what will work with your budget. There are affordable options with granite, but there are compromises. If you’re not happy to live with those compromises, then other materials might be a better option.
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