How much do granite countertops cost?

The cost of granite countertops typically ranges from $40 to $100+ per square foot installed, depending on several key factors. These include the color, rarity, origin, thickness (2cm vs 3cm slabs), finish (polished, honed, leathered), and edge profile. More exotic or imported granite colors, such as Blue Bahia, Alaska White, or Titanium Black can push costs up to $150 per square foot or more. On average: Entry-level granite countertops (standard colors, common patterns): $40–$60/sq ft Mid-range granite (more unique veining or imported): $60–$85/sq ft High-end exotic granite slabs: $85–$150+/sq ft In addition to slab price, total installed cost includes: Fabrication (cutting, edge shaping, sink/cooktop cutouts) Sealing Installation labor Removal of old countertops (if applicable) 💡 Pro Tip: At StoneRem.com, you can browse in-stock granite slabs in real time, compare local prices, and request custom quotes for your kitchen, bathroom, fireplace, or outdoor countertop project all in one place.

What are the pros and cons of granite countertops?

Granite countertops are a popular choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces due to their natural beauty, durability, and timeless appeal. However, like any surface material, they come with both benefits and drawbacks. ✅ Pros of Granite Countertops - Natural Stone Beauty Every granite slab is one-of-a-kind, with unique veining and color patterns; perfect for creating luxury countertops with natural variation. - Extreme Durability Granite is one of the hardest countertop materials available. It resists scratches, chips, and general wear making it ideal for high-traffic kitchens. - Heat Resistance Granite can withstand hot pots and pans, making it a top choice for cooking areas. No need for trivets or hot pads. - Stain Resistance (when sealed) Properly sealed granite countertops are resistant to stains from wine, oil, coffee, and more. - Increases Home Value Granite countertops are seen as a premium upgrade that can boost resale value and elevate your kitchen’s design. - Wide Range of Colors & Finishes From Absolute Black to White Ice, and finishes like honed, polished, and leathered there’s a granite slab to match every style. ❌ Cons of Granite Countertops - Porous Surface (Needs Sealing) Granite is naturally porous and requires periodic sealing (typically once a year) to maintain stain resistance. - Heavy Weight Granite slabs are extremely heavy and require professional installation and strong cabinetry for support. - Can Crack If Stressed While rare, excessive pressure or improper installation can cause granite to crack especially near cutouts. - Cost Variability While some granite is affordable, exotic slabs can be expensive, making granite a wide-range investment. - Limited DIY Options Due to its weight and cutting requirements, granite is not DIY-friendly and must be handled by skilled fabricators.

Are granite countertops out of style?

No. granite countertops are not out of style. In fact, they remain one of the most sought-after countertop materials in both traditional and modern home design. While trends have evolved and materials like quartz and porcelain have gained popularity, granite continues to be a timeless favorite for homeowners, designers, and real estate professionals alike. ✅ Why Granite Countertops Are Still in Style: Natural Beauty Never Goes Out of Style Each granite slab is a unique piece of nature with intricate veining and color movement. This organic look adds character and luxury that engineered surfaces can’t replicate. Versatility Across Design Styles From rustic farmhouse kitchens to sleek modern bathrooms, granite comes in a wide range of colors and finishes (polished, honed, leathered) to fit any aesthetic. High Resale Appeal Granite countertops are still a strong selling point in real estate listings, often associated with upscale, long-lasting value. New Finishes and Edge Profiles Leathered and matte finishes, waterfall edges, and bold veining have modernized the look of granite, making it a fresh option even in 2025 designs. Durability Meets Elegance Granite combines function and style. It’s heat-resistant, scratch-resistant, and long-lasting, ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, outdoor spaces, and even fireplaces. ⚠️ When Granite Can Look Dated: Overused patterns from the 1990s or early 2000s (like busy speckled beige) may feel outdated in ultra-modern homes. Outdated cabinetry or backsplash pairings can make even beautiful granite slabs look old-fashioned. Updating cabinetry, hardware, or finishes can give granite a totally modern, high-end refresh.

Granite vs quartz: For kitchen countertops?

Choosing between granite and quartz countertops depends on your priorities—natural beauty vs low maintenance, uniqueness vs uniformity, and how much durability you expect in your kitchen. Both materials are premium choices for kitchen countertops, but they differ in composition, performance, appearance, and care requirements. ✅ Granite Countertops: Pros & Cons Granite is a 100% natural stone, cut directly from the earth and polished for residential and commercial use. Pros: - Unique, natural patterns – Each slab is one-of-a-kind - Highly heat-resistant – Place hot pans directly on surface - Scratch-resistant & durable - Ideal for indoor & outdoor kitchens Cons: - Porous – Requires sealing to prevent stains - Natural color variation – May not match samples exactly - Limited to what nature offers – Fewer consistent color options ✅ Quartz Countertops: Pros & Cons Quartz is an engineered stone made from crushed quartz, resins, and pigments—designed for consistency and performance. Pros: - Non-porous – No sealing needed; naturally stain-resistant - Consistent color & pattern – Ideal for sleek, modern designs - More flexible in finish options – Matte, polished, marble-look - Lower maintenance Cons: - Less heat resistant – Can be damaged by extreme heat - May discolor in sunlight – Not ideal for outdoor kitchens - Usually more expensive than entry-level granite 🧠 Which Is Better? Quick Comparison Table Feature Granite Quartz Material Natural stone Engineered stone Maintenance Needs sealing No sealing required Heat Resistance Excellent Moderate Durability High Very High Look & Feel Unique, earthy Modern, consistent Outdoor Use Yes No (can fade) Price Range $40–$100+/sq ft $55–$120+/sq ft

Back

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Kitchen Countertop Material

By Vincent A — Published on February 21, 2025

The kitchen countertop is one of the most important components of any kitchen. It’s where you’ll spend a significant amount of time preparing food, organizing your space, and even socializing with family and friends. The material you choose will affect not just the look of your kitchen but also its durability, maintenance needs, and overall functionality.

A good countertop should strike a balance between beauty, functionality, and durability. It should also suit your cooking habits, design preferences, and budget.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Kitchen Countertop Materials

Before diving into the different material options, it’s essential to consider the following factors to help you make the best decision:

Budget
Your budget will play a significant role in determining which materials are feasible for you. Some materials like granite and marble tend to be more expensive, while others like laminate and butcher block offer more budget-friendly options.
Durability and Maintenance
Think about how much wear and tear your countertops will endure. Some materials, like quartz and granite, are incredibly durable, while others, like wood, require more maintenance to avoid scratches, stains, and water damage.
Aesthetic Appeal
The visual style of your kitchen should reflect your personal taste. Countertop materials come in a range of colors, textures, and patterns, allowing you to choose one that complements your kitchen's overall design.
Functionality
Some materials are better suited for certain tasks. For example, if you’re an avid baker, you might want a countertop material that offers a smooth, cool surface. If you do a lot of cooking, durability and ease of cleaning will be more important.
Environmental Impact
If you’re environmentally conscious, consider materials that are sustainable and have a minimal environmental impact, such as recycled materials or responsibly sourced natural stones.

Popular Kitchen Countertop Materials

Now that you know what to consider, let’s take a look at the most popular kitchen countertop materials available:

1. Granite Countertops

Granite is a natural stone that has been a popular choice for kitchen countertops for years. It offers unmatched durability and a wide range of unique, beautiful patterns.

Pros:

Extremely durable and heat-resistant
Scratch and stain-resistant when sealed properly
Adds value to your home
Available in a wide variety of colors and patterns

Cons:

Can be expensive
Requires regular sealing to prevent stains
Heavy, so professional installation is necessary

Best For: Homeowners looking for a luxurious, long-lasting material with a wide selection of design options.

2. Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops are made from engineered stone, combining natural quartz crystals with resin and pigments. This creates a non-porous, durable surface that mimics the appearance of natural stone.

Pros:

Non-porous, so it’s resistant to stains and bacteria
Requires minimal maintenance (no sealing)
Wide range of colors and patterns
Durable and scratch-resistant

Cons:

Can be expensive
Not as heat-resistant as granite
Can discolor with prolonged exposure to direct sunlight

Best For: Homeowners who want a low-maintenance, highly durable surface with modern aesthetics.

3. Marble Countertops

Marble is one of the most iconic and elegant countertop materials, known for its timeless beauty and luxurious appeal. Each marble slab is unique, with varying veins and patterns that add character to your kitchen.

Pros:

Beautiful, timeless appearance with unique veining
Can increase the resale value of your home
Naturally cool surface, perfect for bakers

Cons:

Prone to staining, scratching, and etching
Requires regular maintenance and sealing
Expensive

Best For: Those looking for a sophisticated, timeless look who don’t mind the upkeep.

4. Butcher Block Countertops

Butcher block countertops are made from wood, typically hardwoods like maple or oak. They offer a warm, rustic look and are a great option for those who enjoy working with wood surfaces.

Pros:

Adds warmth and a natural element to the kitchen
Can be sanded down and refinished to remove scratches
Great for chopping and food prep

Cons:

Requires regular oiling to maintain its appearance
Prone to scratches, dents, and water damage
Not as durable as stone countertops

Best For: Home cooks and those looking for a natural, rustic aesthetic in their kitchen.

5. Laminate Countertops

Laminate countertops are made from layers of plastic bonded to a particleboard or MDF core. They are an affordable option available in a variety of colors and patterns.

Pros:

Budget-friendly
Available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures
Easy to maintain and clean

Cons:

Less durable than stone options
Can get damaged by heat, scratches, and stains
Lacks the high-end appearance of natural stone

Best For: Homeowners on a budget who want a variety of design options without compromising too much on quality.

6. Concrete Countertops

Concrete countertops offer a modern, industrial look and can be customized with different colors, textures, and finishes. They’re durable and can be made in unique shapes and sizes.

Pros:

Customizable in terms of shape, color, and texture
Highly durable and long-lasting
Can be made to fit any kitchen layout

Cons:

Can crack over time if not properly installed
Requires regular sealing
Can be heavy and may require professional installation

Best For: Those seeking a custom, modern, and durable option for their kitchen.

Choosing the Right Material for Your Kitchen

The ideal kitchen countertop material will vary depending on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the following to make an informed decision:

For durability: Granite, quartz, and concrete are excellent choices.
For low maintenance: Quartz and laminate are the easiest to maintain.
For a luxurious look: Marble and granite offer timeless beauty.
For eco-friendly options: Recycled glass, bamboo, and butcher block are sustainable choices.
For a budget-friendly option: Laminate and butcher block are the most affordable.

Ultimately, the best material for you will depend on your priorities—whether that’s durability, cost, maintenance, or style.

Conclusion

Choosing the right kitchen countertop material is an important decision that will impact both the function and aesthetic of your kitchen. With so many materials to choose from, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each one based on your lifestyle and design preferences. Whether you choose the timeless elegance of marble or the low-maintenance durability of quartz, the right countertop can transform your kitchen into a space you love to cook, entertain, and gather in.

1264