Cheap and Elegant Materials for Kitchen Countertops

Single Thickness Countertops

The standard way to fabricate a countertop made of solid surface, granite, marble, or quartz is to create a 1 1/2-inch thick edge. The material itself is not 1 1/2 inches; it is 3/4 inch. The material is cut by the fabricator and then another piece of material is laminated (glued) to the top piece, creating a 1 1/2-inch thickness. Behind that laminated piece on the edge, is a sheet of plywood called a subtop.

The lamination, and sheet of plywood, plus labor to do both, add to your bottom line. A less expensive and stylish way to go is to use only the single-thickness material, in which one lamination process and the plywood is eliminated. It's popular in Europe and now designers are making use of it in the United States. This choice could save you around $1,000 in your average kitchen renovation budget.

Quartz Budget Color Options

Granite and quartz countertops come in at similar pricing, depending on the color. With granite, you'll find many colors ranging from low budget to ultra expensive. With quartz, there are select colors that are in the lower price groups. For example, one major quartz fabricator, Caesarstone, has price groups A and B which offer savings over C to F groups.

Beware of no-name brand of quartz countertops that may be inexpensive, but potentially made with sub-par materials and manufacturing processes. Stick to companies such as Caesarstone or Silestone.

Common Granite Colors

Some granite colors cost more than others because of their availability. If there is only a small section of terrain in an area producing a rich and desirable color granite, it will be more expensive than a color that is commonly available. Ask your local granite stone yard for inexpensive granite options. You might just find something you like that is inexpensive.

Pre-Fabricated Granite

Pre-fabricated granite comes in common colors, possibly with a choice of a few different edges, and sometimes with a 4-inch backsplash already added. It's ideal if you can find a pre-fab counter to fit your specific needs. Pre-fabricated granite counters may not work for islands that need a custom slab to accommodate uncommon sizes or shapes.

Slab Butcher Block

There are several companies that make butcher block slabs. This type of butcher block can save you money because it is not prepped for seam locations, the wood may not necessarily be hand selected for premium quality, and it could have some barely-there imperfections that might not affect your countertops. A skilled carpenter can biscuit the joints together to turn it into a warn, natural, and beautiful kitchen countertop.

Modern Laminate

Many homeowners may think they have to settle for laminate countertops to come in under budget. You don't need to settle for anything with today's laminate choices which are more elegant than ever. The material is a durable choice that is super easy on your budget—and on your eyes.