What’s the Best Bathroom Or Kitchen Countertop For You?
Selecting countertops for your new or remodeled bathroom can be an overwhelming challenge, because there are so many different products available, and your investment in countertops can vary by thousands of dollars. Since my book, “THE Survival Guide: Home Remodeling,” was published, new products have been developed using the latest technology. Knowing your options — the pros and cons of each product — will help you make a good decision. The major factor affecting your selection of the right countertop is your budget. In the list of products below, you’ll be able to see the range of your basic investment from lowest to highest. For all of the products, an 8-foot wide by 25-1/2-inch deep countertop with no side edges (i.e., between two walls) has been used to calculate a reliable target budget. The example countertop is 17 square feet. Final price of your countertop may include custom edges, undermount or integral bathroom sinks, or other accessory items. When in doubt, get multiple estimates from local suppliers and fabricators.
- Laminate is $35-$50/square foot, including fabrication and installation. Investment: $595 to $850.
- Tile includes porcelain, clay, talc, or natural stone, and varies in price from $5/square foot to $40/square foot, not including installation. Investment: $85 to $680.
- Solid Surface is $55 – $185/square foot, including fabrication and installation using standard edges. It is a manmade product; “Corian” and “Avonite” are two popular brands, but there are at least 11 other brands available. Investment: $935 to $3,145.
- Quartz (also known as “engineered stone”) is $55 – $170/square foot, including fabrication and installation. Investment: $935 to $2,890.
- Wood is $50 – $175/square foot. The price may include fabrication, finishing, and installation, depending on the manufacturer (often a contractor or cabinet manufacturer). Investment: $850 to $2,915.
- Composite Glass, Metal, or Paper is $80 – $180/square foot. The price may include fabrication and installation, depending on the manufacturer. Investment: $1,360 to $3,060.
- Glass is $50-$300/square foot, including fabrication and installation. Investment: $850 to $5,100.
- Concrete is $100-$300/square foot, including fabrication and installation. Investment: $1,700 to $5,100.
- Stone is $70 – $250/square foot, including fabrication and installation. Investment: $1,190 to $4,250.
- Stainless Steel is $110 – $275/square foot, including fabrication and installation. Investment: $1,870 to $4,675.
- Lavastone is $235-$400/square foot. Investment: $3,995 to $6,800.
The next logical step in your quest to find the best countertop is to read the article I’ve prepared that will give you pros and cons for each of the materials in this list. Segment 1 discusses Laminate, Tile, and Solid Surface. Segment 2 covers Quartz, Wood, Composite Materials, and Glass. Segment 3 explores Concrete, Stone, Stainless Steel, and Lavastone.
“See the Possibilities. Create a Positive Difference.”
Choosing the right countertop for your bathroom (or kitchen) can be a daunting task, even when you’re armed with all of the information. I’d love to help you select the right products for your home, your lifestyle, and your budget. Call me (503-632-8801) or send an e-mail (diane@dp-design.com) to get more information about how I can help you.
© Copyright 2015 D. P. Design “See the Possibilities. Create a Positive Difference.”