If you have made the decision to put a granite countertop in your kitchen, you’ve made a smart choice. Of course, you may also be struggling with a few questions before you can actually begin the fun part – choosing, buying, and installing your new countertop. Many homeowners know that granite is the best choice, due to its durability, versatility, and wide variety of color choices. Knowing is only have the battle, though. You, like many other homeowners, may be concerned about the cost, types of granite countertop available, and who you can have install your new countertop. In this article, you will find the information you need to make informed choices regarding these three top concerns.
1) How Much Does A Granite Countertop Cost?
Granite countertops aren’t all expensive. You might be surprised at how affordable they can actually be. Much of the price of a granite countertop depends on the type and color that you choose. The most affordable granite countertops aren’t solid slab. They are tiled, and can be as cheap as $4 per square foot. If you have your heart set on a slab countertop, however, there are still inexpensive ways to obtain one.
Many factors affect the price of a granite countertop, including the number of square feet to be covered, who does the install and how, and the type of materials you choose. Thinner slabs are less expensive than their thicker counterparts, The color of stone you choose will also make a big impact on the final cost. Some types of granite are relatively rare, and hence are more expensive. If you choose to ask for specific edge treatments, cuts, or backsplashes, your cost will increase.
All granite needs a little love. Although low-maintenance, the stone should be sealed properly before you use it. Make sure to add a little extra padding to your budget to account for the sink mounting you choose, as well as sealing and finishing. The cheapest granite countertop, if installed by you and made with tiled granite, can be as inexpensive as $200. The most expensive, on the other hand, will cost as much as $3500 for the same 30 sq. foot countertop. In short, granite can be a very affordable option if you plan carefully, but you can end up paying quite a bit extra if you opt for all the high end options.
2) What Type of Granite Countertop Works Best for You?
There are three main types of granite countertops that consumers can choose from. The first, tiled granite, is by far the most affordable. Tiled granite is a great DIY project, and when done correctly, presents a high-end and nearly solid appearance. Keep in mind that although this option is easier for do-it-yourself projects, the gaps between the tiles can accumulate dirt and grime over time. These tiles are secured in place with clear epoxy, helping to guard the high end look. The epoxy may make this project intimidating for some homeowners.
The second option, a popular choice for mid-range buyers, is modular granite. This option is excellent for experienced DIYers. It also is much more affordable than slab granite, but has a few key downsides. Modular granite, also called prefabricated granite, is precut and works well in simply designed spaces. In kitchens that have unusual countertop features, it can be a difficult choice and may create unappealing seams. This option is more expensive than tiled granite, although less likely to collect unseemly dirt or grime due to the decreased number of seams.
Slab granite is the option that many homeowners envision when they think of granite countertops. It is by far the most expensive choice, and almost always requires professional installation. This elegant option entails the fabrication and transport of an extremely heavy piece of granite, usually ranging from 4.5-5.5 feet wide and 7-9 feet long, adding to the total cost. Apart from looks, slab granite offers the additional benefit of a decreased number of seams, and the ability to more fully customize the end result.
3) Who Can Install Your New Granite Countertop?
The installation of granite countertop isn’t just a job for the pros. If you love getting your hands dirty, so to speak, feel free. There are many granite countertop installation kits available on the market for tiled granite installs. Where modular granite countertops are concerned, you should only attempt to install yourself if you have experience or a lot of time and patience. Slab granite is nearly impossible to install without professional equipment and experience. Due to the weight of the slabs, a team is required for the installation and cutting of slabs.
If you have the money in your budget to hire a professional installer, it would be a smart move in most cases. Don’t let cost keep you from having the luxurious look and feel of granite countertops in your kitchen, though. There are affordable ways to install a granite countertop. Smart planning, careful research, and a realistic outlook on your personal capabilities with counter installation can help save you quite a bit of time and money while allowing you the elegant addition of granite countertops in your kitchen.