Average cost of granite countertops per square foot installed

Homeowners need to make considerations when selecting a kitchen countertop. There are many different products on the market, and so it’s critical to get things right. Out of all the materials, granite has to be your number one. But what is the cost of granite countertops? On average, the cost of granite kitchen countertops ranges from $2,250 – $4,500.

Granite is a durable, natural stone that is also heat and scratch-resistant. You will have to clean your granite counters regularly and periodically reseal them to keep your countertop free of stains from oils and acids. 

Furthermore, the color of your granite will never fade, adding long-lasting value to your home. This guide will help you set the record straight and ensure you understand the best the cost and other factors that you should consider when you’re buying granite.

What is the Cost of Granite Countertops? 

If you are seeking a unique appearance and natural look, granite is the perfect choice for you. However, you need to know what you’re getting yourself into. A kitchen remodeling project’s nightmare is biting more than you can chew; thus, your budget will play an essential role here. To prepare you, here’s a breakdown. 

On average, the cost of granite countertops ranges from $2,250 – $4,500. The labor is usually $35 – $85 per hour, and the cost of your slab can range from $45 – $80 per square foot.  The color, style, and texture can also hike up the total cost of your countertop. Basic, generic slabs cost $40 per square foot and onwards. However, for rare, exclusive pieces, you’ll have to shell out $75 – $100 per square foot. 

The cost to seal your granite kitchen countertops professionally ranges from $170 – $350. You will also have to add this number to your price per square foot. 

What Impacts The Cost of Granite Countertops? 

Granite is a hundred percent natural stone that is quite charming. These factors help contribute to its popularity worldwide. However, certain factors like color, texture, and type will impact your granite slab’s cost. 

Color

Granite countertop colors like white, black, gray that are readily available and common are less expensive. Some rare and exotic colors like red can cost a fortune. That said, you will encounter some distinctive white and black granite that is more expensive too. The price generally will depend on the significant color and type you choose. 

The cheapest color options are white, green, gray at $40 – $60 /square foot. On the other hand, rare colors with unique and captivating patterns can go up to $150- $200 / square foot. 

Texture

Moving on, another factor that will influence the cost of granite is the texture. Textures are different finish options for your granite. It will include options like honed, polished, and leathered. 

Finishes

Polished granite is the most popular finish option for kitchen countertops. However, honed finishes are also stylish. If you’re unsure about the finishes and their costs, honed finishes will be the deciding factor compared to both polished and leathered. 

However, the polished finish is high-in-demand as they cost the least of the trio. It adds a beautiful shine to your counters while keeping the costs to the minimum. 

Leathered granite, on the contrary, costs the highest among the three. It is because it’s not widely available, but it will give your kitchen a rustic feel. 

DIY or Professional?

When you require durability and functionality, a granite countertop is a way to go. The material is heavy and dense, but it is extremely tough. 

If you’re planning to DIY, remember, granite is particularly heavy but not fragile. You may cause damage to the workers or the house while installing it yourself. 

You must be extremely careful with your DIY installation. Some granite pieces may be heavier than others, and you will need at least two people to assist. Make sure you are thoroughly comfortable with the remodeling process and possess all the additional help you need. 

Tile vs. Slab

Granite slab is the ideal material when it comes to kitchen countertops. Who will not love a gracious piece of natural stone just sitting in their home? Although slab is the ideal choice, each granite slab will set you back by $40 – $70 / square foot. It’ll take up a vast chunk of your budget, so it’s best to plan your finances and choices accordingly. 

Granite tiles are way-less superior to granite slabs, and the prices start from $5 / square foot. If you’re looking for a statement piece but are on a tight budget, tile is the way to go. It is DIY-friendly as well as affordable too. 

However, you will have to be friends with visible grout lines, which will need sealing every few years. Also, you will compromise in terms of appearance. 

Alternatively, if you want fewer seams at a decent price range, you can opt for modular granite ($25 – &$40/ square foot). They are typically mini-slabs of granite, and the price falls in-between tiles and full-size slabs. 

Why Choose Granite? 

Granite is an igneous rock that manufacturers quarry, smoothen, and then flatten into construction slabs. Its best feature is its one-of-a-kind and its unique grain. Each granite design is distinguishable and different from the rest. 

Heat-Resistant 

Manufacturers use magma to mold granite pieces, which makes them highly inflammable. Although if you expose it to extreme heat, it can break after ten to fifteen minutes. 

Aesthetic Appeal

Granite adds a uniquely rich and elegant look to your kitchen that very few worktop materials can provide.vGranite is available in more than 20 shades. It will allow you to choose from several options that match your overall kitchen theme. 

Value

Since granite is a natural stone, it lasts longer, and its value will not depreciate. Granite will add value to your home, thanks to its distinctively timeless aura. 

Easy to Repair

This natural stone is so durable that you would have a hard time scratching its surface as long as you apply a sealer professionally. Granite worktops are easy to repair if there is a scratch or chip on the surface. To avoid chips, you can use a putty dye to match the color and then reseal it. 

Family-Friendly 

Because granite is durable and easy to clean, family members, even the small ones, can enjoy their time in the kitchen “helping” out or experimenting. Even the family cat can get away with jumping all over the worktop.

Perfectly Flat and Firm 

Granite countertops offer a perfectly flat surface for those who love baking and rolling out dough on flat surfaces. Because it is firm, it does provide additional help in the kitchen. It is also steady enough for all kinds of cooking procedures. 

Resistant to Dirt and Bacteria

Proper and professional sealing goes a long way, especially when it comes to health and wellness. When you seal your granite countertops, they become hygienic, sanitary, and are easy to clean, too. 

Maintaining Granite Countertops

Do’s 

1. Use mild detergent and water to wipe it down. Sanitizing wipes would work too. Also, ensure there isn’t any residue left. 
2. Let professionals clean your countertops periodically. Soap scum will build-up with time, and before you know it, your counters will look dull and dingy. To avoid this issue, let professional cleaners help every 6-12 months. Moreover, this will prolong the lifespan of your counters. 
3. Use professional sealers to prevent stains in-between cleanings.
4. Always blot first. If a spill occurs, blot before you wipe to prevent the substance from spreading. 
5. Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean your countertop and not steel wool or anything scratchy. 

Don’ts 

1. Don’t wax your counters, especially granite. Granite is a natural stone; unlike paint, it won’t scratch or chip. 
2. Avoid using over the counter polishes or products. These often leave behind residue that will collect dirt and debris over time. 
3. Avoid acidic and abrasive cleaners like lemon juices, vinegar, ammonia. They can cause stains that can be hard to remove. 
4. Don’t use your granite countertop for food preparation. Juices and liquids will leak into the granite, which will then cause nasty bacteria to grow. Instead, you can use a cutting board or a trivet to avoid this problem. 

Are There any Alternatives to Granite Countertops?

While granite is a visually stunning material, there are several alternatives to granite countertops to choose from for your kitchen and bath. You can also opt for the materials mentioned below that are as aesthetic and functional as granite. 

1. Marble
2. Quartz 
3. Quartzite
4. Slate
5. Limestone
6. Soapstone 
7. Onyx

In comparison, the price of granite, marble, and quartz is the most expensive of the lot. Marble costs between $40 – $100/ square foot, while quartz starts from $45 to $120 / square foot. 

If you’re unsure about your budget, rethink installing marble and quartz in your home. The cost of both can drive up significantly.

Quartz is an engineered material that has been bound with resin and polymers to form a slab. When you’re choosing quartz for your kitchen, remember that quartz will cost you higher than granite. The total cost of your quartz worktop, including installation, can go up to $2500 – $5000. 

Alternatively, granite has some significant veins and patterns. Some love it, and some don’t; still, it will make a high-end statement in any kitchen style. Besides, granite countertops costs between $2000 – $4500 and are a much better choice for your home. 

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