How Much Does a Granite Countertop Cost? Homeowner Guide
What does a granite countertop cost? The price will vary depending on a number of factors. Click on each section to learn more about the costs you can expect.
If you are looking for the perfect countertop that will suit your budget, come see the countertop specialists at Natural Stone City. We can walk you through the entire process and help you select and install the perfect countertop for your space. Contact us today to get started.
How Much Does a Granite Countertop Cost? Factors to Consider
1. Size of Your Countertop
The size of your countertop including its length, depth, and thickness will affect your granite countertop cost.
The size of your countertop will be a large part of your granite countertop cost. The larger your countertop is, the more granite you will need. Here are the different measurements that determine the total size of your countertop.
a) Countertop Length
Determining the length of your granite countertop involves measuring the area where the countertop will be installed and considering the layout and design you prefer. Here's a general guide to help you determine the lengths of slab you will need:
Measure the Length:
You can use a measuring tape to determine the length of the countertop area where you plan to install the granite. Measure along the cabinets or the space designated for the countertop. Write down this measurement.
Consider Overhangs:
If you want an overhang (an extension of the countertop beyond the cabinet's edge), factor this into your measurements. Standard overhangs are usually around 1 to 1.5 inches.
Account for Corners:
If your countertop has corners, measure each section separately and add them together to get the total length required.
Template Creation:
In many cases, especially for complex layouts or designs, professionals, like the staff at Natural Stone City, will create a template of your countertop space to ensure accurate measurements before cutting your granite slab.
It's often advisable to consult with countertop professionals or installers. They can provide guidance on measurements, design considerations, and any other specifics for your particular installation.
b) Countertop Depth
Your countertop depth is the distance from the front of your counter to the wall behind it.
The kitchen countertop depth refers to the distance measured from the front to the back of your countertop, extending from the edge towards the wall behind your counter. The more depth you want, the more your granite countertop cost will go up.
The standard depth for countertops is typically 25 ½ inches, although this can vary depending on the following factors:
Appliance sizes
Room dimensions
Cabinet measurements
Backsplash specifications
The 25 ½ inch measurement is calculated by adding the depth of most base cabinets, which are usually 24 inches deep, with the overhang depth you need for your countertop, which is usually 1 ½ inches. While this overhang measurement can vary, ensuring a suitable overhang depth is crucial for safety and providing ample room for movement.
Kitchen Islands:
Although the typical depth for a kitchen countertop is 25 ½ inches, kitchen island countertops often extend to 27 or 28 inches in depth, reaching over 30 inches if they feature a breakfast bar.
The depth of your island countertop will also depend on your available space. While certain kitchens can accommodate expansive islands, others might lack the necessary space to include an island at all.
c) Countertop Thickness
The thickness of the granite slab can impact the final cost of your countertop as well. Thicker slabs generally cost more than thinner ones due to the additional material used and the extra labour required for processes such as:
Cutting
Handling
Installation
Thicker slabs also offer a more substantial and luxurious appearance, which might influence the price as well.
Thinner granite slabs, on the other hand, may be less expensive, however, they can be more susceptible to breakage than thicker ones due to their reduced structural integrity. However, their durability can still be substantial when properly handled, installed, and supported. Adequate support, proper installation techniques, and avoiding excessive force or impact on the surface can help mitigate the risk of breakage for thinner granite slabs.
d) Countertop Height
Watch the video above to learn more about the standard height for countertops.
Even though your countertop height doesn't affect the amount of granite you will need, it still can play a part in your final granite countertop cost. Most kitchen countertops are 3 feet high. This number is calculated by adding the standard height for base countertop cabinets (34.5 inches) to the average countertop material thickness (1.5 inches).
Three feet is the optimum height for the average height of most users as it reaches between 3 and 8 inches below the average elbow height. If, however, you are taller or shorter than average (taller than 5'9" or shorter than 5'3") you may want to have a custom countertop height. Getting custom base cabinets made can add to your final countertop cost.
2. The Type of Granite You Choose
The type of granite you choose can significantly impact your overall granite countertop cost. Several factors influence this including the following:
a) Rarity and Availability of the Granite:
Rare or exotic granite types that are harder to find or acquire tend to be more expensive due to their limited availability and unique appearance.
b) Quality and Grade:
How much does a granite countertop cost? High-quality granite slabs with a consistent pattern can cost more.
Granite comes in different grades based on the following:
Its quality
Colour variations
Patterns
Higher-grade granite, with fewer imperfections and more consistent patterns, often commands a higher price.
c) Origin and Source:
Granite sourced from specific regions or countries might have varying costs. Imported granite, especially from distant locations, can be more expensive due to shipping and handling costs, however, some of the most beautiful granite comes from remote locations.
For example, Natural Stone City has super exotic granite slabs that are shipped from countries like Italy and Brazil which are well-known for their exquisite granite.
d) Finish and Design:
Certain finishes or custom designs might increase the cost. Polished finishes are more common and might be more affordable than unique finishes like leathered or honed surfaces.
3. The Edging You Want
Learn more about the various countertop edge profiles offered by Natural Stone City.
The edge profile you select for your granite countertop can impact the overall cost due to the additional labour and craftsmanship involved. Here’s how different edging options might influence the price:
a) Basic Edges:
Straight or eased edges are standard and usually come at a lower cost since they involve minimal shaping or detailing.
b) Curved or Custom Edges:
How much does a granite countertop cost? Edge profiles that are more complex, will add to your granite countertop cost.
More intricate edges including the following, will usually add more to your overall granite countertop cost:
Bullnose
Bevelled
Ogee
Custom-designed edges
This is because they require additional craftsmanship and time to construct them.
c) Edge Thickness:
Thicker edges, such as a double or triple thickness, will require more material and labour, thus adding to the overall expense.
d) Finish Matching:
Certain edge styles might require specific finishes (like a polished, honed, or textured finish), which can influence the overall cost due to the additional steps needed to match the countertop surface.
When selecting an edge profile, consider both the aesthetic appeal and the impact on your budget. Basic edges are more cost-effective, while elaborate or customized edges can significantly raise your granite countertop cost. Consulting with professionals can help you balance your preferences with your budget constraints.
4. Customization and Additional Features
How much does a granite countertop cost? Sink cutouts will add to your total cost.
Several customizations and additional features can influence the final cost of a granite countertop. They include the following:
a) Sink and Cooktop Cutouts:
Precise cutouts for sinks, cooktops, or other fixtures will add to the overall cost due to the detailed workmanship involved.
b) Backsplashes:
Adding a matching or integrated backsplash to your countertop will increase the cost, especially if it's a taller or custom-designed backsplash.
c) Surface Finishes:
Specialized surface finishes like leathered, honed, or textured finishes may incur extra charges compared to standard polished finishes.
d) Sealer Application:
How much does a granite countertop cost? Adding a special sealant could cost you more.
Applying a sealant to enhance the granite's durability and stain resistance might be an additional service that adds to the overall cost. You should ask your countertop supplier if this is included in your granite countertop cost or if it is additional.
e) Transport and Installation:
The following transportation and installation factors can also affect your total cost:
The location of your home
Accessibility
Installation complexities
If you live in a remote location, it could cost you more to have your installation done or if your kitchen has accessibility or unique installation challenges then the price could also go up.
f) Template and Measurement Services:
Creating templates or detailed measurements for unique or custom layouts may require additional fees.
g) Waste Material Handling:
Any leftover or waste material after fabrication might involve disposal costs depending on the service provider's policy.
When considering customizations, it's important to balance your desired features with your budget. Discussing these options and their associated costs with granite fabricators or professionals can help you make informed decisions about the customizations that best suit your needs and budget.
For the Best Value for Your Granite Countertop, Trust Natural Stone City
If you are wonder how much does a granite countertop cost, contact Natural Stone City. Our friendly staff will help you choose the perfect countertop and give you a free quote on your selection.
Natural Stone City has the largest selection of Granite, Quartzite and Quartz in Southern Ontario, with over 1,000 slabs of different colour options. You can choose from standard colours to super exotic options, shipped directly from Italy, Brazil and around the world. We carefully select each one, keeping the satisfaction of our customers in mind.
When you buy from Natural Stone City you’ll get:
Fast turnaround times
Any colour you want and more
Help from our knowledgeable staff who are experienced stone countertop specialists
Contact us today and we will help you choose the perfect countertop for your home.
What Our Customers Are Saying…
"Everyone from NSC I dealt with was very professional and courteous, and it was obvious that they care about their customers. As a result, everything went without a hitch and the entire process was very smooth and stress-free. If I decide to redo my kitchen countertops I will go to NSC again.
P.S. Special thanks to Maria D.”
—Alena C.
