Get matched with top stone countertop pros in Bryan, TX

Overall, granite tends to cost more than marble. Prices for each material will fluctuate depending on the source of the stone, your location, shipping costs, and the thickness of the material. Labor to install marble or granite countertops typically ranges from $35 to $45 per hour. Granite and marble tile and slab costs compare as follows:

• Marble tile: $7–$10

• Granite tile: $5–$15

• Marble slab: $25–$60

• Granite slab: $50–$100

Cutting stone comes with a number of safety hazards. First and foremost, if you’re not comfortable with the equipment required to cut stone, including blades and grinders, you could easily injure yourself. The heavy machinery also poses a risk to your ears if you don’t wear proper ear protection; similarly, you need to wear eye protection to keep debris from irritating your eyes.

However, the biggest risk from cutting stone comes from the stone dust. When breathed in, stone dust can be a huge hazard to your lungs. Always wear a face mask when cutting stone to prevent inhaling stone dust, and thoroughly clean the work area when you are finished.

To avoid injury, we recommend hiring a stone-cutting professional, rather than attempting this job yourself.

The best way to save money on countertop installation is to choose an affordable material. For example, if you have a busy kitchen and need durability, choose a more affordable but lasting material like granite countertops. Likewise, if you don't use your countertops often, you can use a softer material that costs less than more sturdy ones. 

Another way to cut costs is to remove and dispose of the existing countertops yourself, if possible. That way, countertop installers can get straight to placing the new feature, reducing labor costs.

Yes, onyx is more expensive than granite. Its higher cost is due to its rarity, delicate nature, and the specialized care it requires. While granite countertops typically cost between $2,000 and $4,000, onyx is considered a premium material. Its luxurious, translucent appearance and unique ability to be backlit also contribute to the higher price. In terms of durability, granite is a hard, durable surface, whereas onyx is more delicate and can be damaged if not handled carefully.