Granite countertops are a desirable addition to any kitchen, and most homeowners would like to have them. However, putting in granite countertops can come at a significant cost. Some homeowners may hesitate to take the leap because of this.
It is true that granite is a high-end material, and most people are willing to pay the price for this reason alone. That said, the price of granite countertops can vary widely, from as low as $39 per square foot, installed, to as high as $200.
Many factors come into play when it comes to the final reckoning. It pays to have some idea of the basic factors affecting the price of granite countertops so you have a better understanding of the options open to you.
Rarity
Granite covers about 80% of the Earth’s surface, so there is a great variation in colors and patterns depending on the source of the stone. Some colors and patterns are more common, so the price of the granite will depend on the rarity of the stone. Granite suppliers group these features into grades or levels.
Granite with Level 1 classification has the lowest prices because they come in common colors and simple patterns. Level 2 has patterns that are more complex, two or more color combinations, and/or has less common colors. Finally, granite at the Level 3 class has rare or exotic colors such as blue or green, and complex and intricate patterns.
It is important to note that this classification does not refer to the quality or durability of the granite at all. It only takes into account the relative availability of these granite slabs. For example, a particular granite slab classified as Level 1 may be as just as or even more durable as a granite slab with Level 3 classification. You do not have to worry about the integrity of your kitchen countertops if you choose granite with Level 1 or 2 classification.
Source
Granite comes from many quarries located all over the world. As you might have guessed, the location of the quarry will be a factor on the price because it will cost more to ship granite from a long way away than a sort one.
However, the location is just one factor. Shipping granite from Brazil or Spain to the US will definitely add to the price of the granite. That said, sourcing it locally does not guarantee a lower final price. The labor costs of quarrying and processing granite in the US is typically higher than that in Brazil, for instance. You might actually end up paying more per square foot for local granite than one that comes from Brazil.
As a rule of thumb, the distance from the source to the final destination will have a direct relationship to the price provided all things are equal.
Dimension
Granite sizes vary, but the average length is 267 cm (about 105 inches), while the average width is 137 cm (about 54 inches). However, since you pay for kitchen countertops per square foot, the actual slab size will not have that much of an effect on the final price.
What will affect the price of your countertops is the thickness. In most cases, producers hew granite slabs from blocks in 2 cm and 3 cm thicknesses. Obviously, thicker slabs will be more expensive and durable. You might be able to get exotic granite at about the same price as common granite by simply choosing a thinner slab. You can ensure the longevity of your thinner slab by providing the proper support.
Cut
Most people associate granite with long slabs of stone, but these are just the most desirable cut for kitchen countertops. Producers actually cut granite into modules and tiles as well, usually to utilize odd sized blocks and remnants.
The only real advantage of granite slabs over modules and tiles is that it looks better. Granite slabs require fewer seams than modules and tiles, so it presents a smoother, sleeker look. Otherwise, kitchen countertops made of granite modules and tiles are just as durable as those made of slabs are.
You can choose granite modules and tiles if you have a small budget. Slabs cost between $39 and $200 per square foot, installed. Tiles cost between $6 and $10, and modules between $25 and $40, but these do not include installation costs. Tiles are a budget-friendly option, and works very well as backsplashes, but modules, not so much considering the price difference is not that much. You may want to go for Level 1 granite slabs instead of exotic modular granite, instead.
Granite tiles are available in standard sizes from many tile and hardware stores. Modules (just much larger tiles) are a little harder to find, but some specialty stores do carry them. You can buy them like any other type of tiles and install them yourself on existing counters. However, note that you set granite tiles or modules with epoxy rather than mortar, and you do not leave any spaces for grout as you would with ceramic or porcelain tiles.
Labor
In most cases, a big factor in the final price of your granite countertops is the labor. This includes the cost of fabricating (or cutting) and installing your granite slabs. Many granite retailers will sell you just the slabs, so you have the option to cut and install it yourself, or hire someone to do it for you.
In cases like that, the cost of installing the granite countertops is roughly the same as the price of the granite slab. For example, if the slab costs $30 per square foot, hiring a professional to install it will also cost you $30 per square foot. A reputable supplier may offer packages that includes the stone, installation, and often throw in a standard sink and edge profile, at a very reasonable price per square foot.
Conclusion
The price for granite countertops is not static. You can control many factors that affect it if you understand your options. Your choice of countertop specialist can also play a part in this. A reputable supplier will strive to give you the best deal possible without compromising the quality of the material or labor.
Keystone Marble and Granite is your best bet in the areas of Columbus, Ohio, Delaware cities, Lancaster and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. We are experts at fabricating and installing granite countertops, so you can be confident that you will get the very best in product and service quality.
Our showrooms in Lancaster and Horsham, Pennsylvania as well as New Castle, Delaware and Columbus, Ohio. We will walk you through each slab and explain how each can benefit you in your kitchen or bathroom remodel. If you prefer engineered stones, we also carry the top brands in the industry such as Cambria, Caesarstone, Silestone, and MSI, all with manufacturer warranties.
Once you have chosen your slabs, we provide free professional design consultation and quotes so you know exactly where you are before committing. We also have a quick turnaround, so you will get your products on time and on budget.
Give us a call or send us an inquiry through our website to set the ball rolling!