Are granite worktops expensive?

Kitchen and bathroom renovations often raise questions about which materials to use for countertops and worktops. Granite is famous for its elegance, durability, and unique natural beauty. But it also comes with a hefty price tag, leaving many homeowners wondering – are granite worktops expensive compared to alternatives like quartz, laminate, or wood?

In this blog post, we’ll break down the average cost of granite worktops, compare granite to other worktop materials across critical factors like pricing, aesthetics, and durability, and guide whether the added expense of granite can be justified.

What is the Average Cost of Granite Worktops?

The cost of granite worktops depends on several variables, including stone type and quality, edge profiles, thickness, finishes, cutouts for sinks and cooktops, installation, and more. However, industry estimates put the average total project cost for granite worktops at:

• Granite Worktops Only: £850 per square metre
• Granite Worktops with Installation: £1,285 per square metre

So, for a modestly sized kitchen with five linear metres of worktops, you would be looking at a total investment of about £6,425 for the granite worktops and professional fitting.

The cost of the stone itself varies widely, with rare stone types, intricate finishes, and premium brands commanding higher prices. But a mid-range granite worktop costs between £500 £1000 per square metre before installation.

How Does Granite Compare to Other Worktop Materials?

Now that we know the average pricing for granite worktops, how does granite compare to alternatives like laminate, solid wood, quartz, and other engineered stones?

Here, we’ll analyze the pros, cons, pricing, and value differences between granite and 4 top contending materials.

Laminate Worktops

Laminate worktops represent the most budget-friendly option for kitchens and bathrooms.

Pros

• Very affordable at £20-£50 per square metre
• Huge variety of colours and patterns
• Easy installation

Cons

• Prone to scratches, burns, and water damage
• Seams easily visible
• Short lifespan of 5-10 years

Overall, laminate worktops cost only a fraction of the price of granite. Still, their composition of plastic laminate over particle board fails to match the durability and longevity of natural or engineered stone.

Solid Wood Worktops

Solid wood brings natural beauty and unique grains to kitchen worktops. However, compared to stone, natural wood demands careful maintenance.

Pros

• Warm, natural aesthetic appeal
• Environmentally friendly
• It can be sanded and refinished.

Cons

• Higher upfront cost at £120-£250 per square metre
• Prone to scratches, burns, and watermarks
• Requires regular re-oiling and re-sanding

Like laminate, solid wood worktops cost substantially less than granite. However, wood requires more maintenance to preserve its appearance, making granite a lower-maintenance option in the long term.

Quartz Worktops

Engineered quartz worktops have recently surged in popularity as a durable, low-maintenance alternative to granite and marble.

Pros

• Very hard-wearing and scratch-resistant surface
• Easy cleaning and maintenance
• Long lifespan of 15-20 years
• Large colour and pattern options

Cons

• Higher average cost than granite at £800 per square metre
• Some prefer natural to engineered stone

Quartz commonly costs more than granite worktops, but advances in patterns, textures, and durability have made quartz a top choice for homeowners wanting low maintenance without the natural stone look.

Sintered Stone Worktops

Sintered stone worktops represent an ultra-durable, stain and heat-resistant option.

Pros

• Highly scratch, stain, and heat resistant
• Easy cleaning
• Long lifespan of 20+ years

Cons

• Very expensive, ranges not disclosed by manufacturers
• Less variety in appearance than quartz or granite

While sintered stone can demand premium prices, its extreme durability and resilience make it ideal for busy kitchens. Brands like Dekton, Lapitec, and Neolith dominate the sintered stone market.

Granite Worktop Cost Considerations

When weighing the value of granite worktops, keep the following cost factors in mind:

• Stone Type & Color: Rarer granite types like Blue Bahia, Blue Eyes, and Crystal Black will sit at the highest end of the cost spectrum. Meanwhile, more common stones like Giallo Ornamental or Steel Grey offer cost savings.
• Thickness: Worktops come in 2cm or 3cm thicknesses. Opt for a 3cm thickness for maximum durability and support.
• Edge Profiles: Decorative edges like bullnose, ogee, and dupont add stylistic appeal for extra cost. Keeping a straight, polished edge helps control expense.
• Splashbacks & Upstands: Granite upstands behind a worktop cost extra but provide an elegant, seamless finish.
• Cutouts & special features: Accommodating cooktops, sinks, taps, and other fixtures requires precise stone cutting and incurs added fees.

Is the Cost of Granite Worktops Justified?

For many homeowners, only natural granite offers the desired resilience, longevity of service and natural beauty to justify the higher investment over materials like laminates and oak. Its durability, ease of maintenance, and long lifespan of 15-25 years also position granite favourably against engineered alternatives like quartz.

While granite worktops undoubtedly sit at the higher end of kitchen worktop costs, their exceptional performance across considerations like hardness, stain resistance, heat tolerance, and durability make granite a value option for those who can accommodate the upfront expense.

Developments like secondary marketplaces for used granite worktops are increasing access and affordability for budget-conscious customers.

As with most home renovation decisions, personal taste preferences, functional needs, and budget ultimately dictate whether granite worktops present compelling value for your kitchen or bathroom space. Granite costs warrant careful comparison shopping and analysis of alternatives, but its hallmark durability continues to justify investment for many homeowners.

FAQs on Granite Worktops Costs

Still have questions about the value, pricing, and cost considerations around granite worktops? Our FAQs tackle additional common queries on factors impacting granite worktop expenses:

Do granite worktop prices include installation?

• No. Most granite worktop suppliers quote pricing for the supply of materials only. Expect to budget extra for a qualified stonemason for template creation, fitting, sealing, and installing your granite worktops.

Does granite need ongoing sealing & maintenance?

• Yes, though not as demanding as wood. Annual sealing helps protect the granite surface from stains. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could erode polish.

What factors impact quartz vs granite pricing?

• While quartz commonly exceeds the cost of mid-range granites, style preferences and stone types can alter typical pricing expectations. More exotic quartzes and granites climb the cost spectrum.

Can granite worktops be repaired if damaged?

• Small scratches or chips can often be buffed out by a professional. But cracks or major damage will require a replacement piece to be cut and installed at a considerable cost.

Are there ways to reduce the cost of granite?

• Opt for 2cm vs 3cm thickness, straight edge profiles, allowing seams, smaller cutouts, and installing them yourself rather than paying for fitting.

How long do granite worktops last?

• With proper sealing and care, granite worktops typically last 15-25 years before replacement is needed. Their longevity offsets the initial expense.

Conclusion

Granite worktops are distinguished by their resilience, natural elegance, and long lifespans, which justify a high initial investment for many renovating homeowners. While costing substantially more than entry-level materials like laminate and standard oak worktops, granite offers better longevity of service and lower maintenance demands in the long run.

Compared to other premium materials like quartz, the wide variety of stone types and colours gives homeowners options to control costs while still achieving the desired aesthetic.

While no worktop material checks every box on affordability, appearance, and durability, granite represents an aspirational option that reliably spans those considerations. Its enduring popularity for kitchen and bathroom spaces speaks to benefits extending well beyond the upfront expense.