How Much Is the Cost of Granite Countertops?

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Highlights

• The cost of granite countertops typically ranges from $2,000 to $4,500, while the national average cost is $3,250.
• Some of the factors affecting the total cost of granite countertops include the granite quality, color, cut, rarity, source, and texture; the countertop size and style; the edge design; labor and delivery fees; the installation location; and the number of cutouts.
• Granite countertops have numerous benefits, including durability; sustainability; aesthetic appeal; resistance to heat, scratches, dirt, bacteria, and stains; and a high return on investment.
• Professional installation is recommended for granite countertops due to the material’s weight. In addition, a professional can install the countertops correctly without inadvertently causing damage or sustaining an injury.

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The natural look of granite countertops adds warmth and character to any kitchen. Granite countertops can also improve the resale value of a home. When considering the cost to install granite countertops, it helps for homeowners to know the additional considerations and price factors that go into the granite countertop installation cost. But how much do granite countertops cost? According to HomeAdvisor and Angi, granite countertops cost between $2,000 and $4,500, with the national average at $3,250. Slabs of material usually cost approximately $40 to $60 per square foot, and labor runs from $35 to $85 an hour. The pattern, color, texture, and quality of the granite will determine the final price. The total price for the project can vary from the national average due to the size of the project, the number of countertops that are needed, kitchen or bathroom configuration, and the selected materials. Granite countertops may cost more than other kitchen countertop materials, but they more than make up for the price with durability, value, and appeal. To find the best kitchen counters for their budget, homeowners can search online for “granite countertops near me.”

Factors in Calculating the Cost of Granite Countertops

The cost of countertops depends heavily on the material, and calculating the average cost of granite countertops depends on several factors. Prices can differ from the national average of $3,250 due to area labor costs and the granite’s size, quality, color, cut, rarity, and texture. Other considerations for homeowners to keep in mind include the source of the granite, the type of countertop and edge design a homeowner chooses, the installation location, and additional charges for delivery and cutouts.

Countertop Size and Granite Quality

Granite slabs cost between $40 and $60 per square foot. If a homeowner decides on higher-quality granite with rare stones, the cost can be $75 to $100 or more per square foot. In addition, the thicker the slab, the more expensive it will be.

Granite comes in a variety of grades that determine the quality. The lowest grade has simple patterned slabs that are ⅜ inch thick and come in the most common gray, green, and white colors. Mid-grade granite has slabs that are ¾ inch thick and comes in more vibrant colors with interesting patterns. High-grade granite has thicker slabs, vivid colors, and elaborate patterns. One type of granite can have different color variations and include different stones. The more common stones are on the lower end of the price range, while rarer stones will significantly increase the price. The following table shows granite countertops cost per square foot for the different levels of granite.

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Granite Color and Cut

Basic granite slabs cost between $40 and $60 per square foot. The price jumps up to $75 to $100 per square foot for rare colors, stones, and patterns. Prices vary according to color, which can range from white to gray to green to blue. Patterns can be mottled, swirled, and streaked with different inclusion stones. The different colors of granite and their costs are described in detail in a section below.

Granite countertops are cut to order, and some colors are more challenging to cut than others. This can raise the overall price, which is commonly added to the price of labor.

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Granite Rarity and Source 

The rarer the granite, the higher the price. Rare colors are usually found in higher-end granite, and the price reflects the scarcity. Blue granite is the rarest of all the granite options and is the most expensive. The granite quarry’s location also affects the price. It typically costs more to ship granite from a long distance than from a local quarry. Homeowners will want to keep in mind that the costs to quarry and process granite in the United States are higher than in other countries. To keep costs down, homeowners can see if there are quarries close to them by searching online for “granite near me.”

Granite Texture

There are three types of granite texture for countertops: polished, honed, and leathered. Depending on the texture a homeowner desires for their countertops, there may be an additional fee. The table below shows the additional cost per square foot for different finishes.

• Honed. Honed granite countertops add $10 to $20 per square foot to the overall price due to the challenging installation process. Honed countertops have a matte finish, require regular sealant applications, and are prone to staining.
• Leathered. Leathered countertops cost an additional $15 to $25 per square foot due to the low availability and unique texture. This process produces a textured finish with small ridges and pits on the surface. This type of texturing is commonly done on black and other dark-colored granite as lighter granite countertop colors are not strong enough to endure the process. Countertops with a high mica content or soft stones cannot be leathered. Leathered granite is stain resistant, but it’s prone to scratching.
• Polished. All granite countertops start with a glossy finish. The polished texture is the most common and is available at no additional cost. Polished countertops require minimal maintenance over the years and are typically the least expensive option.

Countertop Style

Most granite countertops are slab countertops, but there are two other options for homeowners who are interested in including granite in their kitchen differently: tile or modular countertops. Each countertop style and its average cost is shown in the table below.

• Modular. Homeowners can expect to pay around $25 to $40 per square foot for modular granite countertops. These polished sections are thinner than granite slabs and require reinforcement. The pattern of modular countertops may not match from piece to piece, and they also need to be grouted and sealed to prevent stains.
• Slab. A slab of granite typically costs between $40 and $60 per square foot. This is the most common type of granite countertop.
• Tile. Granite tile countertops cost between $5 and $15 per square foot. Granite tiles typically come with a polished texture, and honing or leathering isn’t available. The tiles are usually 12-inch squares that need to be grouted and sealed to avoid stains.

Edge Design

There are several options when it comes to the edge design of a granite countertop. The most common designs are square or eased, and these come at no additional cost. However, there are several alternatives that homeowners can choose for an extra cost. The different types of countertop edge designs and their costs are listed below.

Labor and Delivery Fees

Granite countertops installation cost can run from $35 to $85 per hour, depending on the labor cost in the homeowner’s area. The total labor cost can increase, depending on how many countertops are installed, the countertop material, and the size of the project. For an average-size kitchen counter of 24 inches by 180 inches, homeowners can expect to pay $600 to $1,500 for labor. Installing a kitchen counter can sometimes take up to 20 hours, and a bathroom installation is usually less than 10 hours. Labor costs typically include delivery fees, but homeowners will want to ask their granite countertops installation team to be certain.

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Installation Location

The room in which the granite countertops are installed can have an effect on the total price. Installing granite countertops in a kitchen will almost always cost more than installing granite in a bathroom simply because a kitchen usually has much more countertop space. On average, it costs $1,200 to $6,000 to install granite kitchen countertops, while the cost to install granite countertops in a bathroom is between $250 and $2,500.

Cutouts

It costs about $100 per sink cutout in a granite countertop. This charge is in addition to the sink installation and cost, which can run up to $400. If a homeowner is interested in a cooktop mounted under the countertop, that cutout can run them $200. Again, this price is in addition to the cost and installation of the cooktop, which can commonly cost $650. Additional cutouts for hardware and plumbing will increase the overall cost of granite countertops. Learning how to cut granite is difficult and most homeowners will want to leave this task to a professional.

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Additional Costs and Considerations

When budgeting for the cost of granite countertops, homeowners will often have additional price factors and considerations to keep in mind. These can include old countertop removal, plumbing modifications, special countertop treatments, enhancements, improvements, and repairs.

Existing Countertop Removal

Most granite countertop professionals include removing the old countertop at no additional cost, but homeowners will want to ask to make sure. Some contractors may charge extra if the old countertop is unusually heavy or proves especially difficult to remove. Homeowners who choose granite tile may be able to keep their existing countertops and install the tile on top, saving money on old countertop removal. If the existing countertop does need to be removed, it can cost between $100 and $200.

Plumbing Modifications

When installing countertops, the contractor may need to disconnect and reconnect the sink plumbing. In some cases, new plumbing lines may need to be installed, such as if the sink’s location will change. If any plumbing work or modifications are required, homeowners can expect to pay between $40 and $150 per hour depending on the plumber’s skill and experience level.

Special Treatments

Stain-prevention treatments are available for porous granite countertops that are susceptible to staining. Sealing is usually done when the countertops are installed; it costs between $93 and $200, or an average of $140, to seal 120 square feet of granite countertop. Some types of granite need to be sealed every year, while other treatments can last as long as 10 to 15 years. Homeowners will want to ask their granite countertop professional whether their countertop requires sealing, and if so, how often treatments are needed. While it may be possible for a homeowner to learn how to seal granite countertops themselves using one of the best granite sealers, they may prefer to leave it to the pros to ensure the job is done properly.

Enhancements and Improvements

A granite backsplash isn’t a necessity, but it can provide extra protection for the wall. A 4-inch backsplash is priced by the linear foot, and it usually costs between $10 and $15 to install. Additional enhancements can be stain protection or under-the-counter cooktop installation. Some common enhancements and their costs are listed below.

Repairs

Any repairs to the cabinets that the granite countertops will sit on will need to be completed before installation. The base cabinets need to be sturdy and strong enough to support the weight of the granite. If walls are damaged and need repairs, it will add to the overall cost of the project.

Types of Granite Countertops

There are many different choices when it comes to granite countertops. The easiest way to examine the different types is by color. There are six main color options for granite countertops, including black, blue, gold, gray, green, and white. Each color includes several options with different designs and at different price points. What follows is pricing and color information on the main types of granite countertops.

Black Granite

Black granite countertops are unique in that the stone isn’t actually granite; it’s gabbro. Gabbro is one of the hardest and most durable stones, which makes for a solid countertop. A bonus is that black countertops don’t need any special treatment or sealing. They can run between $40 to $75 per square foot and up to $300 per square foot for high-quality black granite. The different types of black granite and their costs are explained below.

• Absolute Black granite is pure gabbro—hard, dense, and durable, with a rich black surface and little color variation.
• Altair granite is the priciest option. It features copper and white swirls across the black background, with each slab being slightly unique due to color variation.
• Black Galaxy granite has small flecks of mica and feldspar on its surface to give it the look of a sparkling galaxy.
• Black Pearl granite has an iridescent surface that gives it a pearlescent look thanks to small pieces of mica on the surface.

Blue Granite

Blue granite countertops are usually the most expensive since they’re the rarest of all the granite options. They can cost between $70 to $100 per square foot and sometimes upward of $400 per square foot. The colors range from blue to turquoise and can have brown or gray inclusion stones. There are four types of blue granite countertops, as described below.

• Blue Bahia granite is a true blue granite. Lower quality blue bahia granite will have some blue stones with a lot of white or brown mixed in. Higher quality will have brilliant blue stones with white or brown flecks on the surface.
• Blue Pearl granite is the least expensive option, though it is more of a silvery-gray in color than a true blue. The countertops with more of a blue tone are more expensive. This granite is covered with mica that reflects the light as a glittering sheen.
• River Blue granite is another option that has primarily gray stones with a beige background. Some of the gray stones have a blue tint, and the bluer it is, the more it will cost. When river blue granite is polished, it resembles rippling water.
• Van Gogh granite is rare and has wonderful color variation, and the blues range from pale sky blue to vibrant turquoise. It has swirls of white and gold and looks best as a polished countertop.

Gold Granite

Gold granite countertops can cost between $40 to $75 per square foot and upward of $240 per square foot for high-end versions. Gold granite can also be classified as brown or a mix of the two colors. Gold granite countertops are common, but many options are dolomite rather than true granite. The types of gold granite and their costs are described below.

• Cabernet granite is a rich golden brown in color and has very little flecking or veining throughout, which makes it more uniform.
• Coffee granite is rich brown and has brown and red flecking across the surface. It may also have some areas of gray and dark brown patterns.
• Exotic Gold granite has high mica and quartz content, which translates into large areas of color. It’s considered an exotic stone and has a price tag to match.
• Giallo Ornamental granite is light gold in color and has red, brown, gold, and white flecks for visual interest.
• Santa Cecilia granite is available in light or dark versions, though both have red, brown, and white flecks.
• Venetian Gold granite is a light gold stone with flecks of brown, white, and red, and veins of a darker gold.

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Gray Granite

Gray granite countertops are usually the most budget-friendly and cost around $40 to $60 per square foot. The price can go up to $200 per square foot for high-end gray granite with rare inclusion stones. Only a few gray granite countertops are labeled as truly gray. There are many white granite countertops that are gray but have white undertones, so they’re classified as white. The types of gray granite countertops are as follows.

• Bianco Kinawa granite is predominantly gray but can also have veins of other colors running across the surface.
• New Caledonia granite features a blend of black, white, and gray flecks to give the appearance of a solid gray stone.
• Royal Gray Agate granite is an exotic stone made from cross-sections of agates. It has a gray and gold tone and can have large variations in color from one slab to the next.
• Steel Gray granite has a uniform gray color without the flecks found in many types of granite countertops.

Green Granite

Durable green granite countertops can range from pale to dark green. The color comes from the mineral serpentine, and they are less likely to stain than other granite colors. These hard-wearing countertops run from $40 to $60 per square foot and up to $250 for higher-end green granite. The five types of green granite and their costs are below.

• Butterfly granite is a bright option with large light-green sections of color and white, gold, and turquoise flecks.
• Costa Esmerelda granite ranges in color from a bright green to a more yellow-tinged green. The stones tend to have yellow and white veins and can also have a high quartz content that resembles marshmallows.
• Green Pearl granite is dark green in hue with a high mica content that gives the stone a sheen. Although there may be some white or black flecks present, this is a true green countertop without much color variation.
• Uba Tuba granite is a common option for kitchen countertops. It features a dark green background with white and gold flecks, and sometimes some turquoise flecks.
• Verde Braziliano granite is very dark green and has lighter shades of green on the surface. Verde Braziliano is considered an exotic stone, which leads to the highest price of green granites.

White Granite

One of the most popular colors, white granite is rarely pure white. Many granite countertops that are labeled as white have undertones of tan, brown, and even red. Some granite labeled as white may be more gray or cream colored. Many types of white granite countertops are weak because they’re not true granite and are prone to staining. White granite countertops need to be properly sealed so they won’t stain. They commonly cost from $40 to $60 per square foot, but the price can go up to $400 per square foot for high-quality white granite, as shown in the following table.

• Alaska granite is mostly gray in color and has cream and black flecks on the surface. Each stone can have a unique look, with some looking almost yellow.
• Blue Nile granite is light cream in color with specks of brown dotting the surface. It’s one of the most affordable white granite options.
• Colonial granite is pale gray with small black and silver flecks across the surface. Some pieces may also have red flecks.
• Delicatus granite ranges from white to light cream in color and includes pieces of gray quartz, mica, and yellow feldspar for visual interest.
• Kashmir granite is a bright white stone with gray, black, and red accents on the surface—sometimes in large areas and sometimes more sparse.
• River granite is bright white with silver elements and red flecking running across the surface. The stone gets its name from the way it resembles running water.
• Viscon granite is gray and white in color and looks similar to marble. It has black flecks on the surface, and the main background is a bright white shade.
• White Agate Light granite is the priciest option that is not a true granite—it’s actually made up of many stones and is cut in a way that shows the colors of each stone, most commonly gold, red, and brown.
• White Galaxy granite is a white stone with a large color variation. Common color flecks include green, silver, and taupe, and some slabs may contain clear quartz crystals.

Photo: istockphoto.com

Benefits of Choosing Granite Countertops

Installing granite countertops can improve and update the look of a kitchen. Old or cracked countertops can result in water damage or mold growth. Below are some additional benefits of installing granite countertops.

Durability

One of the top benefits of installing granite is that it’s resistant to chipping and scratching. Granite is one of the hardest materials—second only to diamonds. When a sealed granite countertop is correctly installed and properly maintained, a granite countertop can last a lifetime.

Sustainability

When it comes to countertop materials, natural stone options like granite are much more sustainable than synthetic options. Granite countertops require less processing than synthetic countertops, and they do not use any chemicals or potentially harmful emissions in the manufacturing process.

Aesthetic Appeal

Each piece and slab of granite is unique in color and pattern. Granite can vary in shades of color, inclusion stones, patterns, veining, and textures. The earthy and natural appeal of granite can add warmth and depth to any kitchen. The organic beauty of granite is appealing to homeowners, and many revel in the process of finding just the right swirled, mottled, or streaked color combination for their home.

Heat and Scratch Resistance

Since granite is formed by heat and pressure, it makes for a great heat-resistant countertop. Homeowners can place hot pots and pans directly onto the surface of a granite countertop without worry. Even though granite is scratch resistant, homeowners will want to use caution when using sharp or heavy items on the counter.

Dirt, Bacteria, and Stain Resistance

When sealed annually, granite countertops are extremely resistant to dirt, bacteria, and staining, which makes them ideal for a heavily used kitchen space. A well-sealed granite countertop can hold up against even the toughest stains—like red wine and spaghetti sauce—and will not absorb bacteria.

Return on Investment

When it comes to increasing a home’s value, installing granite countertops is an excellent way to do it. Granite countertops raise the value of a home, even if the homeowner is not planning on selling it any time soon. The kitchen is where people spend the most time, and investing in granite countertops can provide a fresh, updated look. If a homeowner does decide to sell their home, granite countertops are appealing to potential buyers.

Granite Countertop Installation: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional 

It’s recommended that homeowners hire a professional when installing granite countertops. Granite slabs can weigh up to several hundred pounds. They are difficult to move, and professionals have the experience and the right tools for the job. If a homeowner damages a granite slab and it can’t be used, it will be extra money out of their pocket. And if they don’t have experience cutting granite, they would still have to hire someone to do the cutouts for the sink and fixtures. The DIY method isn’t suggested for this project. Homeowners can search for “granite countertop installers near me” to find the best countertop installers in their area who know how to install granite countertops safely and efficiently.

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How to Save Money on the Cost of Granite Countertops

The cost of granite countertops can be high, and the additional considerations associated with the project can quickly add up. One way to save on granite countertops is to choose the cheapest option, but there are other ways to save without compromising quality.

Photo: istockphoto.com

• Buy local. Find a local quarry or stone yard that will also install the countertops. It costs less to transport granite from a short distance rather than far away.
• Get multiple quotes. Call around and get at least three quotes from granite countertop installers. Look for companies that fabricate and install the countertops themselves to save on costs.
• Don’t skimp on the quality. It may seem counterintuitive to buy more expensive granite to save money, but lower-quality granite can chip and crack more easily than a slightly more expensive option. Buying quality now can save on replacement costs in the near future.
• Ditch the texture. Honed or leathered textures can significantly add to the overall cost of granite countertops. Polished granite comes with no additional cost.
• Opt for a thinner cut. If you don’t mind the overall aesthetics of a thinner countertop, go for a thinner option. A 1¼-inch-thick option will cost more than ⅜-inch-thick or ¾-inch-thick options.
• Remove the old countertop. If your contractor charges extra to remove the old countertop, consider ripping it out and hauling it away yourself.
• Go for the common colors. White, gray, beige, and green granite countertops are more common and less expensive than red and blue.
• Buy remnants. If you have a small area where you’d like to install granite in your kitchen or bathroom, consider buying remnants. Carefully measure the area to get an accurate estimate.

Questions to Ask About the Granite Countertop Installation

Asking a professional the right questions about the cost of granite countertops can minimize miscommunication, save money, and achieve a homeowner’s desired results. Below are some questions for homeowners to ask before hiring their countertop installers.

• Are you licensed and insured?
• Do you have references?
• Who will be installing the countertops?
• How long will the project take?
• Do you offer slab viewing?
• Can I choose what parts of the slab I want installed in my home?
• Do you also handle plumbing?
• What type of warranty do you offer?
• Does your company fabricate and install the countertops?
• How durable will the countertops be?
• What sort of maintenance will I need to do on my countertops?

FAQs

There are many choices to make when it comes to granite countertops. From standard brown or gray granite countertops to the eye-catching waterfall countertop trend, the sky’s the limit. Staying within budget can be a daunting process for homeowners. What follows are some frequently asked questions about the cost of granite countertops to help guide homeowners in their decisions.

Q. How much are granite countertops? 

Granite countertops cost between $2,000 and $4,500, with the national average at $3,250. Slabs of material usually cost approximately $40 to $60 per square foot, and labor runs from $35 to $85 an hour.

Q. Why is granite so expensive? 

The price of granite is based on how desirable and available it is. If a particular type is rare and only available from a faraway country, it will be more expensive due to shipping and rarity. The rarer a color, like red or blue granite, the more expensive it will be.

Q. Which is cheaper: granite or quartz? 

When comparing granite vs. quartz, homeowners will find that granite is typically cheaper than quartz—but the prices have recently been balancing out. Granite can start around $40 per square foot, and rare colors will range from $70 to $100 per square foot. The average installation costs for granite countertops average from $2,000 to $4,500, while quartz can cost between $2,500 and $5,000.

Sources: HomeAdvisor, Angi, Fixr, HomeGuide

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