When it comes to shopping for granite, it can get expensive and unfortunately there is no way around the costs. However, shopping for granite on a budget is still completely feasible, and you can take steps in making a budget that results in your dream stone.
The main thing to consider with the price of your stones is where you are getting them from. Typically, granite is cheaper when you purchase slabs from a wholesaler rather than a retailer. The reason for this is because a wholesaler gets their granite straight the quarry and there is no middle man. With a retailer, they have to pay the costs of getting the granite from the quarries, to their supplier, and then to them which means they markup the price to cover the cost they spent. The price can also depend on where the granite was imported from. Usually, granite is imported from Brazil and India, but occasionally you may come across slabs that were imported from. For example, stones imported from Italy may be more expensive.
When you are renovating your kitchen, normally it can cost as much as $6,000 for just the granite. We totally understand that this is a large investment and to some, it may sound crazy. However, we promise granite is worth it. Granite is super durable and looks aesthetically pleasing, which makes every dollar spend 100% worth it. There are ways to make the price of your countertop not be so overwhelming.
Granite Colors
The first thing is the color of the granite. Granite comes in many different colors and this can cause the price to go up, especially if you come across a rare color like purple, pinks, and reds. A good way to determine whether a slab is going to be pricey is how “busy” the design is. If a slab has a lot of movement, crystallization and a combination of colors- the slab will most likely be pricier. If a slab has less patches of design and is one solid color, it will be cheaper. For example, plain black and tan slabs are usually among the cheapest slabs on the market.
Shopping for Granite on a Budget | Granite Levels
Granite is usually separated into levels, typically ranging from one to five. If your supplier has their stones labeled by levels, you can expect that the lower level is a lower price and vice versa. Some suppliers may have a marking that says “PS”. This means private selection and these are normally the stones that cost anywhere from $2,000-$5,000.
All the above information also applies to marble and quartzite. Many people think that just because a stone is not granite, that it means it will be cheaper. However, this is not the case. Just like with granite, every stone is priced based on their coloration, pattern, movement, and of course size.
Aside from the stone, renovating your kitchen with any stone comes with the cost of fabrication. Most retailers or wholesalers have fabricators that they work with and can refer you to for a discounted rate. We recommend you go with someone that your supplier refers you to, rather than picking your own because this way you know they are good, trusted fabricators and you get the chance to save a little bit of money. Fabrication covers everything from cutting the granite to fit measurements needed, adding a finish such as a high gloss or honed look, finishing the edges and installing the granite.
Many homeowners will try and find granite that is already cut and that they think will fit their kitchen and then proceed to install it themselves. We do not recommend this, because if you don’t get the right size then you must spend more money to buy new stone or have it cut anyways. Also, do not try to install your slabs yourself in hopes of saving money because granite must be installed a certain way to avoid issues and a professional is the way to go. Trust us, the money to pay for install is much worth it.
Granite is expensive, but don’t let the cost discourage you because there are tricks to get around it. Ask your supplier too if they have any running deals. Most places will work with you the best they can.