Marble countertop costs between $2,000 and $5,000, with most homeowners paying around $3,000. This stone is a popular countertop choice for its elegance and durability. With many types and finishes, marble’s price can vary. Let’s explore the specifics of each type and the cost factors to make a more informed decision.
Marble Countertop Costs by Type
Marble is a metamorphic stone. It comes in different colors, patterns, veining and thickness.
Calacatta
This marble is from the Italian region Carrara. Calacatta has a bold white background with dark golden veins. One of the most expensive options, averaging at $180 per square foot.
Carrara
Homeowners use Carrara for countertops. Its characteristic colors are a whitish, bluish-gray background and light gray veining, making it perfect for the kitchen and bathroom. This marble usually comes in 2 to 3 inches thick slabs; its average price is $40 per square foot.
Cultured
As a manufactured marble, Cultured marble can match any home decor style and colors, making it very attractive for homeowners. It averages $65 per square foot.
Danby
Danby marble has a white to off-white background and dark gray veins. It has a distinctive luxurious and elevated look often used on floors. It averages about $80 per square foot.
Makrana
Many kitchens have Makrana countertops because of their density and affordability. It comes from India. Makrana has a creamy white background with light gray veins. It has an average price of $12 per square foot.
Pink
From Turkey, pink marble has unique rose and golden tones with red veins. It’s usually pre-ordered because it’s not so popular. It averages between $25 to $30 per square foot.
Statuario
Statuario is a luxurious material for modern kitchen countertops. This marble has a white background and gray and gold veins. The average is $50 per square foot.
Travertine
Travertine is also known as black marble. It has a range of gray and brown background colors. It’s used for countertops because of its durability and distinctive look. It averages $75 per square foot.
Marble Countertop Cost Breakdown
Here are some factors that determine the cost of marble countertops.
Marble Slab Size and Thickness
The most affordable countertops have slabs that are 3mm thick. Homeowners looking for a more luxurious appearance opt for a thicker stone of 5mm. There are standard counters between these two measures. Likewise, the size of the slab will also affect the price. The wider the slab, the more expensive the marble will be, as this is used to maintain vein patterns.
Edge Design
Square and eased edges are countertops finishes. They can affect the price of the marble installation. They have an average cost between $10 and $12 per linear foot. There are more expensive ones. Double bevel, Dupont square, and Cole Smith finishes can run between $36 and $40 per linear foot.
Grading
The average cost of the marble for a countertop will depend on its grading. The grading scale ranges from A to D:
- A Grading. This marble has subtle colors and few veins. It has minor flaws, isn’t chipped or wasn’t damaged during transport. This is the most expensive marble.
- B Grading. This marble can contain minor and overlooked flaws. The slab may appear cracked.
- C Grading. This marble has greater flaws and appears a lot more chipping.
- D Grading. This marble has chips and some flaws. This type has brighter colors and darker veins. It’s the cheapest option.
Finish
The type of finish can also add to the final cost of marble countertops:
- Honed finish. A honed finish can cost between $10 and $20 per square foot. Most marble types can handle a honed finish. It gives the countertop a smooth, matte finish. It also gives the countertop a slight sheen, showing more wear and marks than a rough-honed finish.
- Leathered finish. The average cost of leather finish ranges from $20 to $30. Here, the fabricator rotates a diamond-tipped brush over the surface. This attains the uneven texture of this finish. The leather finish does not have a reflective surface. Not all marble types are strong enough to have it.
- Caressed finish. Caressed finishing can cost between $30 and $35. In caressed finishing, they polish the highest part of the marble. The finished result has a slight shine besides the texture of the leathering. This is one of the most exclusive finishes because not all fabricators provide it.
Labor
Labor costs are usually between $35 and $45 per hour. Projects take around 10 hours. The average pay is around $350 to $450 for the service. This price doesn’t include the cost of materials.
Additional Costs to Consider
Some other factors can affect the total cost of marble countertops.
Removal and Disposal of Old Countertops
The average removal and disposal of old countertops cost between $100 and $350. The price of removing old countertops will depend on their size and the company’s fees for this job.
Additional Treatments and Repairs
Some countertops need repairs to give the marble stone a refreshed look. Depending on how damaged or chipped the marble is, professionals can charge up to $600. This often involves paying additional hourly fees for the labor of $75 per extra hour. There can also be extra costs for the chemical treatment of the marble.
Maintenance
Marble is a porous stone and requires detailed maintenance to prevent stains. The best first step for its maintenance is sealing and treatment. Once treated, clean the surface with a mild cleanser and a soft cloth. It’s recommended to wipe dark-colored liquids immediately to prevent staining. To maintain a marble countertop, avoid using rough or abrasive materials. It’s preferable to use a pH-neutral cleaner formulated for marble.
Additional Installations
Extra installations can increase the cost by an average of $600. These include designing the layout, installing backsplashes, and additional details to match the countertops to the rest of the kitchen design.
Are Marble Countertops Worth It?
The allure of marble countertops is undeniable. With many types, finishes, and price points, homeowners can choose a marble that fits their aesthetic preferences and budget.
While the initial investment can be substantial, the longevity and elegance of marble make it a worthy addition to any home. It’s essential to factor in the upfront costs, long-term maintenance, and potential additional expenses.
By understanding the full spectrum of costs and considerations, homeowners can make an informed decision that will enhance the beauty and value of their homes for years to come.
