Natural and engineered stones are the most popular choice for kitchen countertops and other projects. Materials like granite and quartz are in high demand due to their durability, elegance, variety of colors, and finishes. Quartz has been the most popular kitchen countertop material for several years, and this trend will continue to rise in 2024 and beyond. So, what do you need to know to budget for your new kitchen countertops?
Natural and engineered stones are among the more expensive choices compared to other materials like laminate or ceramic. Among ‘higher-end’ options, though, they are surprisingly affordable and last for years, if not decades. Experts say that, as a rule of thumb, plan to spend 5% to 15% of your home value on a kitchen renovation. Pricing ranges vary widely from materials and styles to colors. So, staying within range will help you maximize the return on your investment should you ever want to sell.
Factors, including where the type of stone is sourced, product availability, and color, influence the price per square foot or slab. Although all-natural stones like Statuary, Calcutta, Viscont white, Taj Mahal, and Super White are sourced from quarries worldwide, some colors or veining may be in higher demand or extremely rare in comparison. Considering materials make up 40-50% of the total cost, material matters when calculating your budget.
Material aside, other factors to consider when pricing or budgeting include the size of your project, the complexity of installation, such as the number of cutouts, the intricacies of the installation, waste, thickness, edgework, and finish. There are a number of finishes, from polished to leathered, that can increase the price of your project. Once you start narrowing down your options based on must-haves and personal preferences, it becomes much easier to hone in on that budget. Remember, the best consumer is always an educated consumer.
Now, it’s time to look for a fabricator and installer who understands your needs and will bring your vision to life. Ensure proper diligence when selecting your stone fabricator or installer. At a minimum, work with a licensed company per any applicable laws in your county and state. More importantly, verify they’re insured should anything unforeseen occur. Working with a legal entity with insurance coverage is paramount. Next, be sure to select a knowledgeable company with a good reputation. Ask questions about your project- it’s ok because you don’t know what you don’t know. That’s the reason you’re hiring a subject matter expert to fabricate and install your kitchen countertops and backsplash for your renovation in the first place- to guide you on your journey. Ask questions like:
How long have you been in business?
Are you insured?
What are your areas of expertise?
What kind of countertops do you offer? If you’re looking for a specific type of material, ask if the stone specialist has or can source it.
What are the pros and cons of the particular material or materials you’re interested in? Again, if you’re looking for something specific, be upfront to ensure it’s the best fit for your remodel.
What’s entailed in the process if you decide to move forward? Do you sign a binding contract? How do you take measurements or templates?
It’s always best to talk to a few fabricators when selecting the right stone specialist for your home. More importantly, take the time to read customer reviews and view their portfolio on their website, social media pages, or showroom. Remember, pictures are worth 1000 words! At Marbleline, our dedicated stone specialists will work with you every step of the way, from consultation to installation and beyond.
