Granite countertops surely add luxury and style to any kitchen. This is without mentioning yet the great qualities of granite transformations on countertops such as being scratch-proof, heat resistant, and stain resistant. But what is the price you have to pay for such things? Granite transformations can really be costly these days. In fact, the cost of granite transformations is just about equal the cost of demolishing an already existent countertop and installing a new one with tiles. Learn how much you have to spend on a granite countertop today.
Granite Transformations Cost
The cost of granite transformations is $60 t $100 per square foot.
This price includes the measurement of the countertop, fabrication of the granite slabs, and installation of the material onto the countertop with the services of a professional. In some cases, the cost involves transporting materials to your home.
Factors Affecting The Cost Of Granite Transformations
Quality. The granite you choose for the countertop greatly affects granite transformations costs. Quality is being measured in terms of the thickness, purity, and color of the stone. Of course, the better the quality of the granite of your choice, the more expensive the price per square foot becomes. When talking about granite stone colors, the cheapest are those with black shades. Sandier colors and lighter grays are mid-priced while white and dark gray shades are the most expensive. Also, when speaking of quality, there are some granite fabrications that appear to be stronger than others. Granite slabs that are manufactured to be more resistant to stains, scratches, and cuts are usually priced higher.
Size. The size of your countertop determines the overall cost of the granite transformations project. Of course, the larger the countertop is, the more expensive the project usually goes. However, as the project becomes bigger, the price per square foot of granite transformations goes lower.
Installation. The price estimates quoted above refers to granite transformations that are attended to by a professional contractor. If you decide to do the job yourself, the cost will go lower. In DIY granite transformations, the use of a granite tile or modular granite is more common instead of using pre-fabricated slabs. For DIY modular granite installation, the price usually starts at $25 per square foot. On the other hand, DIY tiles start from $4 only.
Contractor. For professional granite transformations projects, your choice of contractor still affects prices. Contractors in larger cities usually charge higher as compared to those in rural areas. Moreover, pricing of services can also vary depending on the local competition and the reputation and experience of the contractor you are hiring.
Countertop. For existing countertops that require granite installation, the cost of installation is higher. Contractors charge $90 to $130 per square foot for granite transformations on existing countertops.
Additional Costs
For do-it-yourselfers, the project will require you to purchase tools and materials for the installation. Tile cutters, for instance, cost from $10 to $200. There are other things you may need to purchase such as drill bit and thinset mortar.
Granite countertop maintenance is an added expense after the installation. You need to purchase special cleaners for everyday cleaning requirements, Some granite countertops may even require constant sealing jobs for surface damage control. For a 50-square foot countertop, you need a one-ounce sealant, which costs $15.
Pros And Cons Of Granite Countertops
Before deciding to get granite countertops, it is better for you to know each side of the coin. Granite, even though a good quality material, has its own share of cons as well. Check out the pros and cons of granite countertops and decide for yourself whether or not this is a good choice for your home improvement needs:
|
Advantages |
Disadvantages |
|
|
Tips Before You Decide To Get Granite Countertops
Measure your countertop first to see how much you need for the project. Knowing the exact measurements will help you get accurate cost estimates from granite transformations providers. This is a more important aspect when speaking of DIY installations. For professional installations, a skilled craftsman visits your home and makes the necessary measurements for a very accurate estimate and installation.
Pick a contractor that is reputable in the business of granite transformations. You want a contractor not only with skilled professionals but one that can offer you good quality materials and craftsmanship.
Check the inclusions in the package before signing up with any deal. Make sure that the cost does not only include materials and installation but as well as shopping.
For large projects, you may be entitled to freebies such as a free sink. Ask the contractor about possible items they can offer you.