Cost of Granite Countertops

Cost of Granite Countertops

Serving Portland OR, Vancouver WA, and the Oregon Coast

Granite countertops are where form meets function. In addition to looking elegant and timeless, they are also extremely durable and easy to maintain. All of these benefits beg the question – just how much do granite countertops cost?

Unfortunately, the answer isn’t as simple as a single number. Instead, there are several different factors that can impact cost. Here are some of the key things that influence the price of granite countertops:

• Popularity of colors: Unique colors and patterns are often scarce, which means they can be a lot more expensive than popular options. The most common colors for granite countertops are white, black, and grey, and these generally cost around $40 to $60 per square foot. Meanwhile, custom options may cost upwards of $200 or more per square foot.
• Finish and texture: Granite comes in several different finishes and textures, including polished, leathered, and honed. Polished is the most popular choice for kitchen counters, making it the least expensive option. Conversely, leathered is the rarest finish and therefore has a much higher price tag.
• Tiles versus slabs: Granite countertops can be made from tiles or slabs. Tiles are smaller and lighter, while slabs are heavier and more durable. Tiles are considerably less expensive than slabs, beginning at $5 per square foot rather than $40 to $80. That said, tiles leave edges and seams, and they may be less durable than slabs.
• Cost of labor: Though some people choose to install the granite countertops on their own, this can be a tricky job that is often best left to the professionals. Most expert installers charge between $35 and $80 per hour, though the time spent installing depends on the size and details of the job.