Renovating a kitchen is a big job. It can often cost $20,000 or more for a full-scale kitchen renovation, and countertop prices are likely a big part of your budget. Countertops can be quite expensive – second only in cost to custom kitchen cabinets.
Because of this, it’s a good idea to know what countertop prices to expect when planning a kitchen renovation, to ensure that you stay within your budget – but get a beautiful, durable, and long-lasting countertop that will last for decades to come, and add to the value of your home.Let’s start with countertop prices of the most popular materials, going from lowest to highest.
Laminate Countertops – $15-$40/Sq. Ft
Laminate countertops are typically the most affordable. Laminate is a synthetic material that’s very durable, and available in a tremendous variety of different colors, styles, and designs – many of which are designed to imitate wood, marble, granite, and other such high-end materials.
Laminate does not require much maintenance, and it’s also quite simple to install on your own if you have a bit of experience with common tools – so it’s a perfect DIY option for kitchen renovations on a budget.
Tile Countertops – $18-$35/Sq. Ft
Tile countertops have grown in popularity recently, due to the affordability of kitchen tile, and the enormous variety of different tile sizes, shapes, styles, and patterns. More plain, simple tile countertops can be very inexpensive – but expensive materials like porcelain and complex mosaic patterns can be quite pricey.
Tile is easy to care for and clean, and requires little maintenance, making it a good option for homeowners on a budget.
Recycled Glass Countertops – $50-$125/Sq. Ft.
Recycled glass countertops use many varieties of post-consumer glass, which is ground into a powder and bonded together with advanced adhesives. These countertops are great for the environment, and they’re colorful and quirky – and they require very little maintenance.
Wood (Butcher Block) Countertops – $55-$200/Sq. Ft.
The cost of butcher block countertops can vary wildly, based on the quality of wood you choose. If you choose recycled or reclaimed wood, you may be able to save some money. In addition, butcher block is very easy to work with, and can often be installed by homeowners, or by an experienced handyman – allowing you to save money on installation.
Butcher block countertops need to be cleaned and oiled regularly, so they require a bit of maintenance. But they can last for decades, and they will only look better with age, making them a good investment.
Granite Countertops – $45-$200/Sq. Ft.
Granite is a great option for many homeowners. While it’s expensive, it’s cheaper than marble, and it’s easier to care for – and it can last for decades without any chips, damage, stains, or other such issues.
Granite tiles are cheaper than slabs, making granite tile countertops the best choice for homeowners with a low budget. On the high end, though, granite can be just as expensive as marble, and other similar materials.
Stainless Steel Countertops – $80-$225/Sq. Ft.
While stainless steel is often associated with professional kitchens, it’s also a great idea for home kitchens, as it will last for decades with relatively little maintenance, and it’s quite attractive and modern. Lower-end stainless steel is quite affordable, but high-end options with professional-grade finishes and coatings can be very expensive, indeed.
Marble Countertops – $75-$250/Sq. Ft.
Marble is widely considered to be one of the most attractive countertop surfaces. Accordingly, it’s typically the most expensive to have installed, as marble countertops are almost always custom-made, and must be installed by experienced professionals to avoid damage.
While marble requires more maintenance than most other countertops, and care must taken to treat it properly, it truly is a spectacular surface, and the natural beauty of marble is a great addition to your kitchen.
Stick To Your Budget – And Find A Countertop That’s Right For You!
It can be hard to stay within your budget – especially because of high countertop prices. But take your time to find the right materials (and home renovators), and you’re sure to make the right choice.
