What is the average cost of countertops?

Author: Prof. Israel Barrows I  |  Last update: Wednesday, February 18, 2026

The cost of kitchen countertops varies by material, with options like quartz ranging from $105-$185 per square foot, granite at $95-$225, and laminate at $20-$50. Countertops typically make up about 11% of a kitchen remodel budget, averaging $17k to $25k for upscale renovations in Roswell, GA.

How much should I budget for new countertops?

Transforming your kitchen with new countertops can enhance both its functionality and visual appeal. On average, countertop installation costs around $3,104, but this can vary widely from $1,840 to $4,387 based on factors like material, type, and size.

Is quartz cheaper than granite?

Which is more expensive, quartz or granite? Both quartz and granite maintain their value for many years to come, and the materials cost approximately the same, with quartz being slightly less expensive. However, luxurious quartz products can be as expensive as granite slabs.

What is the best countertop for the money?

The answer would definitely be quartz. However, with proper maintenance, granite is also a great countertop product.

How much is a standard countertop?

Countertops are an important part of any kitchen design, and the average price of common countertops is $15 – $320 per square foot depending on the material you choose.

The Hidden Factors of Kitchen Countertop Prices

What countertop is less expensive?

What is the least expensive type of countertop? The least expensive type of countertop is laminate. It's appealing and easy to clean, but it can also easily damage from heat, scratches, and moisture.

How much is a 10 ft slab of quartz?

How much does a 10 foot quartz countertop cost? Quartz price per sq ft is around $50, so 10 ft quartz should be anywhere between $400 to $600 depending on the grade of quartz you're willing to purchase.

What looks like quartz but is cheaper?

Corian Solid Surface

It has a seamless appearance, similar to quartz. One of its main advantages is its durability, as it resists stains, scratches, and moisture. Corian is also non-porous, making it easy to clean.

Which countertop lasts the longest?

Quartz is the most durable countertop material. A perfect choice for any kitchen or bathroom, quartz countertops contain a mixture of crushed quartz and resin. These materials create diverse appearance options that range from vibrant, customizable colors to the tried-and-true natural finish.

What is the cheapest way to do countertops?

Generally the cheapest countertops available, laminate is made from layers of plastic bonded to particleboard to form a solid surface. Preformed counters with a built-in backsplash come in limited colors and patterns. You can dress up this product by paying for extras like end caps, mitered corners, or bullnose edges.

What is the downside of quartz countertops?

#1.

Quartz countertops do have a certain level of heat resistance. However, it's not as heat-resistant as granite countertops. The same thing that makes quartz countertops so strong also makes them weak when you put heat or hot cookware on them.

Can I put hot pans on quartz?

You should never put a hot pan or pot from the stove or oven directly onto a quartz worktop. Yes, you could get away with it a few times, but eventually, the quartz worktop will become damaged. It is advisable to use a trivet or heat-resistant mat at all times.

Which is prettier granite or quartz?

Granite is durable, beautiful and would be uniquely yours. But you can't' beat quartz if you want the classic beauty of natural marble without the headache and heartache of keeping natural marble looking good.

How often should you replace countertops?

Your Countertops Look Outdated

While you'll incur an additional expense you may not have budgeted for, it will save you time and can even make you money in the long run. In general, kitchen countertops should be replaced every 10-15 years, which is roughly the lifecycle of interior trends.

Does Lowe's install countertops?

Our countertop installers will ensure that your custom countertop installation is a success. Choose Lowe's installation services for an expert finish every time. From granite and butcher block countertop designs to laminate countertops, professional installers will ensure a precise fit.

What countertops are best for resale value?

Granite is one of the world's hardiest substances, so a granite countertop can last for a lifetime. The tough constitution and timeless beauty of granite countertops mean they are always in high demand. This demand will add to your property's resale value, which is worth factoring into the return on investment.

What color countertop is timeless?

Grays, browns, whites, tans, olives, and other neutral colors are a great choice, helping the style of your kitchen outlast the trends and fads that come and go year in and year out.

What is the hottest trend for countertops?

What is the hottest trend for countertops?
  • Quartzite – The Ultimate Marble Alternative. ...
  • Dramatic Veining & Bold Patterns. ...
  • Dark & Moody Tones. ...
  • Leathered & Honed Finishes. ...
  • Exotic & Rare Stones. ...
  • Earthy & Warm Neutrals. ...
  • Bookmatching for a Seamless Look.

Is Corian still available?

Corian (designed by DuPont) was the first solid surface material to appear on the market. It was first sold in 1971 in only one color. The brand still exists and now manufacturers more than 100 colors. The material is stain-resistant due to its non-porous nature, a useful characteristic for a kitchen counter.

What is the downside of Corian?

Corian: The Cons

Corian is not the most durable countertop surface out there and is prone to scratches and heat damage. Corian typically does not have the glossy appearance or feel that some people prefer.

What is the fake granite called?

Liquid granite, which can also be known as synthetic granite, isn't stone at all. The term is used for a particular type of extra-strong concrete developed by Sheffield Hallam University, and also for a technique for pouring and decorating concrete to make it look like granite.

How can I redo my countertops cheaply?

There are a few cheap ways to redo kitchen countertops. For example, you can paint them, cover them with contact paper, or sand them and stain them with a wood finish. These options are suitable for wood, linoleum, or laminate countertops.

How much is quartz at Lowes?

Quartz costs run from about $60 to $150* per square foot. Costs can fluctuate depending on factors like location, the quality of the quartz, thickness, size, color and labor costs.

How much should I budget for quartz countertops?

Quartz countertop costs can vary tremendously (more on that soon!), but you should expect to pay between $100 to $200 per square foot installed, says Bob Bakes, cofounder and head of design at Bakes & Kropp, a kitchen design and cabinetry company. More expensive slabs deliver richer colors and textures, he says.

What to clean a quartz counter with?

For quartz countertops, always choose mild dish soap and water or cleaners specifically designed for quartz. Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or vinegar, which can damage the surface.

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