Q: How much should I budget for new kitchen countertops?

• <div><p><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-countertops.htm">Installing new kitchen countertops costs</a> <b>$1,850 to $4,450</b>, with an average price of <b>$3,140</b>. Some materials, like marble and granite, are more expensive than others. Additionally, the size of the countertop impacts the overall price. Labor accounts for 10% to 20% of the overall project cost. Add-ons, like edging and corner treatments, also increase the cost.</p></div>

Question 1

What are my options when it comes to countertops?

Accepted Answer

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There are several countertop options available to fit your lifestyle and needs.

Granite countertops are durable and come in a variety of colors.
Soapstone countertops are prone to scratches and best in smaller kitchens.
Marble countertops are less durable than granite but a good option for busy kitchens.
Slate countertops are stain-resistant, making them easy to clean.
Limestone countertops must be sealed often to prevent scratches.
Acrylic countertops cost less than granite while still providing durability.
Laminate countertops are the most affordable but chip and fade faster.
Wood countertops need monthly sealing to maintain.

Question 2

Are epoxy countertops less expensive than granite?

Accepted Answer

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Epoxy is typically more affordable than granite, especially if you’re choosing a high-end slab. Most granite countertops cost $75 to $145 per square foot to install, with high-end varieties topping $185 per square foot.

In contrast, epoxy countertops cost $50 to $150 per square foot to install. The material costs for epoxy are significantly lower than granite, but installation costs can be higher. Rather than simply cutting granite countertops to size before installation, your contractor will need to carefully pour the epoxy over an existing surface.

Question 3

How much should I budget for new kitchen countertops?

Accepted Answer

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Installing new kitchen countertops costs $1,850 to $4,450, with an average price of $3,140. Some materials, like marble and granite, are more expensive than others. Additionally, the size of the countertop impacts the overall price. Labor accounts for 10% to 20% of the overall project cost. Add-ons, like edging and corner treatments, also increase the cost.

Question 4

What is the downside to quartzite?

Accepted Answer

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There are three main downsides to quartzite: the cost, the porosity, and the weight. As a natural stone, there’s a level of scarcity that can drive up the price of certain types of quartzite. Even more common varieties are less affordable than synthetic materials like laminate and other natural stones like granite.

You’ll also have to reseal your quartzite countertop annually to combat the natural porosity and reinforce your cabinets to account for the added weight.

Question 5

How much does it cost to install or replace countertops?

Accepted Answer

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The average cost to install or replace countertops is $3,105, with most projects falling between $1,858 and $4,177. However, the total price can range from $400 to $8,500 depending on several key factors. The most influential cost factors include the countertop material, the size in square feet, the quality of the new countertops, and the complexity of the job, such as the number of sink cutouts, corners, and special edging. Other considerations are the accessibility of the installation area and whether the project includes the removal and disposal of your old countertops. You have a wide array of material options to choose from. Laminate is generally the most budget-friendly, costing between $8 and $27 per square foot. On the higher end, slate countertops range from $30 to $90 per square foot. Other popular materials with varying price points include butcher block, quartz, granite, stainless steel, Corian, and wood.