Kitchen Countertops Can Cost a Lot or a Little Depending on Your Taste and Budget

Remodeling a kitchen is one of those home renovation projects that many home owners dread, but that add the most value to properties. The inconvenience of not being able to use the kitchen for several weeks is balanced by the increased home value and the joy of having a kitchen that is updated and easy to use. When looking at options for kitchen remodeling, budget is often the biggest issue. It can quickly get expensive when an entire kitchen is being finished. Cabinetry can cost thousands of dollars, as can appliances, but what can really rack up a high price tag quickly is countertops.

Kitchen countertops cost anywhere from $5 per square foot all the way up to $150 per square foot. The vast range in kitchen countertops cost is where the money can be quickly spent. The cheapest possible countertop is made from laminate. While it has been a favorite of those decorating on a budget for years, it has also now found a segment of the market that enjoy the retro look that it provides. Laminate is reminiscent of the counters you might see in a diner. At only $5 a square foot it is inexpensive and also easy to install. Laminate can be ordered in pre-cut lengths, and it is also easy to cut on site if needed. The downside to laminate is that it is not heat resistant, so hot pots and pans can't be set directly on the surface.

Other kitchen countertops cost considerably more, but tile can also be had for a reasonable price. Tile can actually be cheaper than laminate, with the cheapest tile costing only $2 per square foot. However, very few designs are available at that price and it is highly probable that those using tile will be spending considerably more. Tile kitchen countertops cost up to $60 per square foot, so home owners on a strict budget should be cautious when choosing tile and keep price firmly in mind.

The kitchen countertops that cost the most are natural stone. Granite counter tops and marble lead the pack with prices per square foot starting at $60. They can quickly go beyond that price point depending on the slab you choose. They may cost the most, but they are also the most durable and functional. Granite and marble have long been synonymous with luxury to many people. If you can afford them, they can vastly increase the value of your kitchen renovation project.

Another kitchen countertops cost that is not included in the above numbers is the installation. Those prices simply reflect the cost of the material. If you shop at certain retail locations they can provide an all inclusive price that figures in the installation cost. As you can see, updating kitchen countertops can cost a considerable amount of money. However, it is worth the cost. Having a well laid out kitchen that is easy to work in will both increase your homes value and make it more livable. When cooking is made easy, families are more likely to eat home cooked meals on a regular basis.