If you're planning a kitchen remodel, you will also most probably replace your counters. Here's our guide for helping you with the cost of new countertops.
The New Countertops Cost Guide
Which Are the Best Counter Tops for Your Money?
When it comes to remodeling of your kitchen, nothing is more visually important than your kitchen countertops. They draw the eye, gather people around them, coordinate with your backsplash and floor choices, and generally set the tone for your kitchen.
In our opinion, when replacing your existing countertops, the two most asked-for options are granite and quartz. Similar to having hardwood floors, realtors will tell you that having either granite or quartz countertops will help increase the value of your home.
>> See CAN YOU IMPROVE THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME WITH NEW FLOORS?
What is the Difference Between Quartz and Granite?
Both quartz and granite are highly sought-after materials. In reality, you can't go wrong with either one. It's really a matter of preference.
- Granite is 100% natural and is mined from quarries throughout the world.
- Quartz, on the other hand, is 93% quartz and 7% resin.
Granite vs. Quartz Appearance
Appearance-wise, some granite will have little or no pattern while other granite will have bold patterns. Since Mother Nature doesn't specialize in consistent, repeatable patterns, we recommend that you view granite slabs in person as each one can have very different visuals.
Quartz will usually replicate the look of marble with its veining and white and gray colorations. Initially, when quartz first came on the market, it replicated the look of granite. Once manufacturers changed the look to marble, quartz exploded as a countertop choice.
Countertop Durability & Maintenance
Both materials are very durable. The benefit of quartz is low maintenance since it never needs to be sealed because it is non-porous. Granite will need to be sealed usually every 12 to 18 months to prevent staining.
Granite because it is 100% natural stone can have hot pots placed on it without causing any damage. Quartz, on the other hand, because it consists of 7% resin filler, may be damaged by heat. For that reason, you will want to be careful not to place hot pots on the surface. It's not recommended.
>> See THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS
Countertop Customer Testimonial
"Floor Decor installed Quartz countertops in our kitchen as well as a tile backsplash. We worked with Randee, who was incredibly helpful with our color choices. We loved that she was forthright and clear about pricing. She also followed up to ensure we were happy with our purchases and experience.
When there was a slight problem, I contacted Janine and they sent someone here quickly to fix it.
This is a small family business that clearly values its customers and is committed to selling quality products and taking care with installation. Our family highly recommends Floor Decor!"
Aviva L., Madison, Connecticut
Is Natural Marble Good for Counter Tops?
Another question that comes up with countertops is whether natural marble is a good choice.
Marble is a beautiful stone; however, we do not recommend it for a heavy-use kitchen countertop. The reason is that marble is softer than both quartz and granite and is more susceptible to staining. In other words, it's a high-maintenance option for your kitchen.
It's fine for a bathroom vanity.
Cost Guide for Template, Fabrication, and Installation.
First, let's talk about the bait-and-switch price often advertised of $59 s/f installed for counters. Sure you can pay $59 s/f if your counter is a perfect rectangle with no cutouts or finished edges.
Chances are if you're shopping for granite and quartz counter tops, your kitchen is probably a little more complex than that. That significantly affects cost.
Creating a Template for Your Counters
Once you've selected your countertop material, your dealer will carefully measure and template your existing counters. A template is usually made of ⅛-inch-thick strips of plywood that are hot-glued together. It's similar to a dress pattern in that it allows the fabricator to cut out a shape that will fit perfectly over your existing sink, with room for faucets, soap dispensers, etc.
Some of the larger fabrication shops will template using a laser which transfers the dimensions digitally to an iPad or tablet.
Countertop Fabrication & Installation
Pricing can vary from fabricator to fabricator based on the quality of work. Everybody buys the slab for a similar price, larger fabricators do get a price reduction.
The countertop finish happens during the fabrication process. You have three options:
1 - Polished
A polished finish happens by honing and buffing the granite or quartz surface with fine abrasives until it develops a natural high-gloss shine of its own.
2 - Honed
A Honed Finish means that the stone's surface has been ground down slightly to achieve a consistent, smooth texture and flat, matte finish.
3 - Leathered
A leathered surface usually has a soft sheen to it but is much less shiny than the glossy look of a polished slab.
Reputation Matters for New Countertops
When shopping for your new counter top, you'll want to deal with a reputable dealer who has references, insurance, and, in Connecticut, a Home Improvement License.
Countertop Cost Summary
Cost will depend on the scope of work, the degree of difficulty, and the amount of countertop needed.
Generally, the average cost for template, fabrication, and installation for a counter top in the 30 - 45 s/f range would be as follows:
- Polished Granite 3cm $2600 - $5200
- Polished Quartz 3cm $3500 - $6900
- Honed or Leathered Finish Granite 3cm $2900 - $5800
- Honed or Leathered Finish Quartz 3cm $3700 -$7700
Other Cost Factors to Consider
Don't forget to consider these other cost factors.
Standard edges are included, and there will be up-charges for some of the more custom edges such as Ogee edges (see the second image above for an example of Ogee edges).
If you are replacing your existing countertop, you will need to take into account an additional cost for removing and disposing of it.
You will also need a plumber to disconnect your sink and reconnect it after the new countertop has been installed.
Most likely you'll want to replace your sink at the same time so that will need to be figured into your cost.
READY TO EXPLORE New Countertops FOR YOUR HOME?
Let us know if you're ready to transform your kitchen with new counters.
You can visit one of our two showroom locations in Middletown or Orange by appointment to experience for yourself a beautiful range of countertop options. Or, you can do so remotely.
>> See Open for Business While Respecting Social Distancing
Let us know of any questions in the comments or contact us.
We look forward to helping you.
Thanks for reading,
Janine & Michael
Note: We originally published this article on 05/13/2020, and have updated it.
