Granite is one of the best choices when it comes to countertops. Its durability, easy maintenance, and versatility are well known, which makes it one of the top choices for countertop materials. But exactly how much are granite countertops?
When thinking about prices and the actual cost of things it all comes down to how you measure investment. Are you a person who thinks of long-term investments or are you only interested in the sheer price of things at the moment you buy them?
The combination of beauty and strength that granite provides comes with a relatively hefty price compared to other choices. However, the price is well worth the investment.
On average, granite will cost $50 to $100 per square foot, but there are some aspects that can greatly vary that initial price. Let’s discuss all the aspects that influence the price of granite and how to actually define its value.
Looking at its pricing, granite countertops may look expensive. But if you already have one, then you know that it’s worth event cent. Do you want to know why? Then check out our definitive guide on granite countertops!
How much are granite Countertops? – Long Term vs. Short term
Prices are, sometimes, difficult things to talk about. As we mentioned above, it depends on your perspective of what price means. Let’s talk about long-term vs short-term investment.
Do we really have to go that far just to talk about the price of countertops?
Yes. We actually have to.
A big part of owning a stone countertop is the maintenance that comes with it. Granite, being a natural stone, needs to be properly maintained and cared for. Also, and this is very important, granite needs to be sealed.
Granite is a very resistant material against heat and scratches. But it is porous and can be easily stained if spills rest on top of it for too long. That’s why sealing is a must!
But rest assured that when choosing granite, you are choosing one of the most beautiful natural stones there are, just be ready to take proper care of it so your investment doesn’t turn out bad.
And there lies the thing about the price of granite: it is one of the most expensive choices in short term, but one of the cheapest in long term due to its durability and longevity.
What influences the price of granite Countertops?
Size
The first thing you need to know is that the price of your granite countertop will depend on the surface area you’re working with. Granite is sold per square foot, so the bigger the area, the more expensive it will be. As previously mentioned, granite will cost $50 to $100 per square foot, but that can change depending on some of the following aspects.
Color
The most common colors of granite, like white and grey, are usually available on-demand and are less expensive. These options usually start at $40 and go up to $60 per square foot.
However, the most exotic options can heavily influence the final price of your countertop. Rare colors with very unique patterns can go as high as $200 per square foot.
Texture (Finishes)
Granite can come in three different finishes: leathered, honed, and polished.
The leathered finish is the most expensive. It gives your granite a rustic feel, really making it look like leather. It is not as available as the other finishes and that is why the most expensive one.
On the other hand, the polished finish is the cheapest one and one of the most popular choices. It gives your countertop the characteristic shine that most people choose to go for.
In between is the honed finish, also a very stylistic choice. The honed finish is a good middle ground to start thinking about the final product.
Labor
The labor cost of installing a granite countertop usually starts at $35 and can reach up to $85 per hour. If you include in the installation the sealing of your countertop (which you should) you can add around $200 per square foot to the final price.
Why choose granite countertops?
The aesthetic appeal is obviously a first and very good reason to choose granite. Few things beat the elegance of a beautiful granite countertop. If you’re willing to invest in a slab of granite that matches your decor, that is one of the best choices you can do.
The resistance to heat is very important in the material for a countertop. In a kitchen, hot pans and objects are always moving around and, even being extremely careful, they will eventually rest on top of your countertop.
You should always use protectors and avoid exposing your countertop to hot surfaces as much as possible, but still, with granite, a disaster won’t happen if you eventually do so.
Being a natural stone, the value of your granite will not depreciate over time. If properly cared for, granite can last for years without losing its initial value.
As long as you seal it, granite is also very resistant to dirt and bacteria and incredibly easy to clean. That makes it a good family-friendly option.
Acquiring a Granite countertop
So, if you add everything together, the initial cost of acquiring and installing a granite countertop usually ranges from $250 to $300 per square foot, including the sealing process. The color, finish, and size of your countertop will heavily influence the final price.
Always choose the best possible professionals when choosing your countertop. A good professional will not only provide you with a good slab but also help you install it, seal it and give you some tips on how to properly take care of it.
If you happen to be around Sarasota, FL, the best professionals can be found at Eagle Stones. They are ready to help you with any countertop need you might have. Give them a call right now at +1 941-227-2000 or through the email sales@eaglestones.us.
