Countertop Buyer’s Guide: What You Need to Know Before You Go
Choosing new countertops is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming. With so many colors, materials, and pricing options out there, it’s easy to get lost. Before you step into a showroom or start scrolling through slabs online, here’s what you need to know.
1) Color Selection: Matching Your Space
- Neutral tones (whites, creams, greiges) play well with most cabinet styles and brighten smaller kitchens.
- Darker shades (black, espresso, deep green) add striking contrast and a luxe feel.
- Consistency vs. variation: Quartz usually looks uniform; natural stone (granite, marble, quartzite) varies slab to slab.
Pro tip: Bring cabinet, flooring, and paint samples (or clear photos in natural light) to compare under real lighting.
2) Material Selection: Durability vs. Style
- Granite: Natural, durable, heat-resistant; each slab is unique; periodic sealing recommended.
- Quartz (engineered): Consistent patterns, stain-resistant, low maintenance; not ideal for prolonged high heat.
- Marble: Elegant, classic veining; softer, can etch/stain; best for low-traffic or baker’s areas.
- Quartzite: Natural stone with marble-like looks and granite-like strength; typically requires sealing.
- Butcher Block: Warm and repairable; needs regular oiling/sealing; sensitive to water/heat.
- Laminate: Budget-friendly, many patterns; less heat/scratch resistance; great for rentals or flips.
3) Project Size: How Much Stone Do You Need? (Use the Countertop SF Calculator below!)
- Measure each run: length (inches) × depth (inches).
- Convert to square feet: (L × D) ÷ 144.
- Add all sections + island(s); include backsplashes or waterfall edges if applicable.
- Plan for waste/overage (typically 10%+ depending on seams/pattern matching).
4) Estimated Cost: What to Budget (Use the Countertop estimator below!)
Installed price ranges (typical):
Material |
Typical Installed Range (per sq. ft.) |
Laminate (Low appeal, Low Cost & Low maintenance) | $15–$40 |
Granite / Quartz (Mid Cost & Low maintenance) | $45–$100 |
Marble / Quartzite(Mid Cost & mid maintenance) | $70–$150 |
Butcher Block (Low Cost & High maintenance) | $40–$80 |
Cost factors: edge profiles (eased, bevel, ogee, miter/waterfall), sink/cooktop/faucet cutouts, seam count, backsplash height, template complexity, removal/disposal of old tops, and installation access (stairs, tight turns).
5) Local Retail Locations: Why Shop Nearby?
- See full slabs in person—color/vein scale is clearer than samples.
- Faster template-to-install timelines and easier service/warranty.
- Support local fabrication teams and reduce freight risk/cost.
6) Purchase Drivers: Price, Quality, Options
- Price: Stay within budget without sacrificing must-haves.
- Quality: Material durability, fabrication precision, sealer/warranty.
- Options: Broad color/finish availability, edge choices, sink types, backsplash solutions.
Decide what matters most (e.g., low maintenance vs. natural variation) to narrow choices quickly.
Bottom Line
The right countertops balance beauty, function, and budget. Compare materials side by side, bring your room samples, confirm lead times, and ask your local retailer about slab viewing, seams, edges, and maintenance so you buy once and love it for years.