I’m remodeling my kitchen. How much should I expect to pay (per square foot) for granite countertops?
GUS asked:
I’m installing new cabinets but don’t have the tools, skills or knowledge for the countertops so I’ll be paying to have them installed. Also, will I do better going with Home Depot/Lowes or a local cabinet/countertop shop?
Doyle
I’m installing new cabinets but don’t have the tools, skills or knowledge for the countertops so I’ll be paying to have them installed. Also, will I do better going with Home Depot/Lowes or a local cabinet/countertop shop?
Doyle
December 7th, 2008 at 3:16 pm
i worked in a department store that sold granite at starting at £225 per metre plus £550 fitting plus cut out charges for sink, hob etc
December 9th, 2008 at 10:28 am
Granite counter tops start about $65.00 per square foot and go up from there. If your talking cabinets, I would check into a custom cabinet shop. The cabinets are far better quality from a custom cabinet shop vs. Home Depot/Lowes. As far as counter tops go, a custom cabinets shop will order them and have them installed. Most likely Home Depot /Lowes would order them too but I don’t know about the installation.
December 12th, 2008 at 12:26 am
Home Depot and Lowes do install c-tops. They usually have a limited selection of colors/ types of stone. If you pick a stone outside of what they offer they can usually get it but the price will probably not be in their advertised range. In most places there is a limited number of fabricators/ installers, so even if you go to a small cabinet shop you may be getting the same company as a big box uses. Granite does usually start in the $60/sq. ft range and can go pretty high if you pick a stone that is rare or exotic. If you see an advertised price for less (or really anytime) make sure what that includes. I’ve seen some places offer a low price and then charge for straight edge. Sq. foot pricing is not totally accurate because it doesn’t account for things like multiple cut outs, undermount sink applications, edge treatments, radius cuts. Best answer- get quotes for the WHOLE countertop from multiple places and then decide. Someones advertised sq. ft. price may be lower but when you add in a few “extras” their price could jump. Another thing to keep in mind is the fact that 98% of all retailers subcontract their stone c-top intalls. Those installers do not get paid by the retailer untill you sign saying the job is complete. If there is a minor issue note it on the paperwork and sign it, that way it’s documented for the retailer to follow up on for you before they pay. If something is REALLY wrong, don’t sign.