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New countertops are a major investment for any home. With this in mind, you will want to find a countertop option that you not only enjoy now but will enjoy for years to come. However, there are times when your budget simply will not allow for a significant expense. This guide will inform you on how you can buy discount countertops – and still find something that can leave you satisfied.
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Why Are Some Countertops Expensive?
There are a variety of reasons why some countertop materials are more expensive than others. Some of these reasons include:
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The rarity of the material
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How much of the material you need for your project
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Where the material comes from
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Customization elements
If you choose a material that is not commonly found, you can expect to pay more for it than you would for materials that are readily available. In addition, if you have a particularly large countertop, the cost of your project will increase. Beyond rarity of the material itself, where it comes from has an impact on cost. If you choose a material that is only found in a country far away, the cost to transport it can drive up prices. Lastly, if you need cutouts for sinks or for the material to be cut in a number of different angles, keep in mind that you will have to pay more.
What Are Some Discount Countertop Options?
Below are some of the best discount countertop options that you will find for your home.
Laminate
Laminate countertops are some of the least expensive on the market. The countertops are made by gluing thin sheets of laminate material over medium-density fiberboard. The countertops are inexpensive mostly because you will be able to find them virtually anywhere. But while the cost is low, the quality is also not the greatest. Laminate countertops are not very durable. The surfaces can scratch and burn easily. While these countertops may help your budget, they may not help your home much in the long run.
Wood
Wood countertops are generally regarded as a stylish choice for the home. If you are looking for an inexpensive countertop that will add warmth to a room, wood can do just that. However, while the cost is not high and the surfaces are pleasing to the eye, you will really have to be careful with wood countertops. The material is much easier to damage than many other products on the market, including natural and engineered stone.
Solid Surface
Solid surface countertops are a popular choice in homes. The surfaces are relatively attractive and durable. That said, solid surface can be damaged by excessive heat or chemicals. In addition, the countertops will not add any value to your home, like stone countertops will. If you are looking to get a good return on investment, you will not receive that from solid surface countertops.
Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile countertops are among the cheaper options you will find. While these surfaces can be stylish, you will have to deal with grout lines. These grout lines are ultimately what turn away many homeowners who are looking to buy countertops.
Granite Tile
Granite tile countertops are less expensive than slab granite. Although this is the case, the surfaces are generally not regarded as attractive when compared to slab granite. If you are going to choose granite, you are better off selecting a slab.
Modular Stone
Modular stone countertops, such as modular granite, are larger than tiles but smaller than slabs. The smaller size can help you cut down on costs, but you will not be able to easily find modular stone.
Laminate |
Wood |
Solid Surface |
Ceramic Tile |
Granite Tile |
Modular Stone |
What Are the Least Expensive Stone Countertop Options?
You do not always have to sacrifice quality to save cost. While more expensive than the options outlined above, you will be able to find stone countertops that are on the less expensive side. Various options that fit into this category are outlined below.
Granite
Granite slabs are among the most attractive countertop choices available. You will have hundreds of colors and styles to select from. Granite countertops can generally be found in the range of $35 to $75 per square foot. So while the higher-end granite options may be out of your budget, you can certainly find types of this natural stone that are less expensive. If your project is smaller, you can even opt for granite remnants. Remnants are leftover pieces from slabs that have been cut and are generally sold at a lower cost.
Marble
Marble is one of the most luxurious stones that you can install in your home. You will typically be able to find marble countertops for anywhere between $40 to $100 per square foot. As with granite, the higher-end marble countertops are likely out of the price range for any restricted budget. But commonly found marbles will be less expensive.
Quartz
Quartz countertops are an engineered stone surface. The material can be found for roughly $50 to $120 per square foot. Although the higher end of the range is expensive, the lower end of the range is more budget-friendly.
Granite |
Marble |
Quartz |
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To sum up the options above, laminate, wood, solid surface, ceramic tile, granite tile and modular stone are some of the least expensive countertop options you can find. That said, materials such as granite, marble and quartz will offer some options that are ideal for your budget – while providing better quality.
Whether you are looking for a new kitchen countertop, backsplash, vanity top or other surface, there are certainly ways you can keep costs down. Keep in mind that it is never a good idea to sacrifice quality in the interest of finding countertops that are inexpensive. Any countertop is a major investment for your home. Because of this, you should choose an option that will leave you satisfied for years to come. Reviewing this guide will help you determine what may be the best countertop option to complete your home remodeling project – all while making sure you stay within your budget.