Are Concrete Countertops Less Expensive Than Granite?

Kitchens are considered as one of the most popular projects for homeowners today. Granite and concrete countertops are the top choices for this kind of renovation, but what do you think is more expensive? Before we proceed to that detail, let us first describe these two.

Granite is harvested from the ground and then cut into pieces for countertops. It is made of feldspar and quartz and mixed with other minerals while concrete countertops are cast from cement and then polished to provide a smooth floorings and other surfaces. Granite slabs will be shaped to fit your sinks, cabinets, and other pieces of furniture in your home.

The process of selecting and installation can be finished approximately after 2-3 weeks. Concrete countertops can be created inside your kitchen. However, countertops slabs need to be separately cast before the installation. First, a mold needs to be created for your counters, including the built-ins and cut-outs required for the renovation.

Cost of Granite

Typical granite slabs can reach up to 40 to 75 dollars per square foot while the exceptional types of granite slabs range from 500 dollars per square foot. The installation can cost around 330-500 dollars. Cutting and finishing add 10 dollars per linear foot totaling 1,200 dollars for four edges. The installation plus the granite slabs can reach between 3,000 to 3,500 dollars if you’re planning for a 30 square foot countertop.

Cost of Concrete Countertops

A concrete countertop renovation project can cost a lot lesser than granite. However, it will take a long time and requires special equipment like grinders and other cutting tools, especially if you do it by yourself. For the concrete countertops, the materials can cost about 2,000 dollars per 30 square feet. Plus the labor expenses that range between 140 and 330 dollars and other supplies costing 80 dollars in the total cost of 2,220 to 2,410 dollars.

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In terms of price, granite is much expensive compared to concrete countertops, especially if you choose to install the countertop slabs by yourself. But in terms of quality, it more recommended to use granite for kitchen surfaces.

Heat Resistance

In terms of heat resistance, both granite and concrete countertops surpass laminated slabs. Though placing a hot material directly on the concrete countertop can diminish the sealant that protects the tiles from spills and stains. Using trivet is also recommended to protect your countertop. Also, sealed granite is a better heat resistant slab compared to concrete countertops ones.

But if you’re looking for a more modern touch, you can consider installing granite with water washed or brushed finishes. Using the laminated surface can also provide a thicker edge

Concrete countertops are quite porous, and even with sealer, it can be easily stained. So, if you’re looking for other types of tiles, you can try the following countertops:

  • Marble
  • Quartzite
  • Limestone and travertine
  • Onyx
  • Slate
  • Soapstone
  • Porcelain and Sintered surface
  • Hardwood and butcher block
  • Solid surface
  • Laminate
  • Ceramic Tiles
  • Stainless steel
  • Recycled glass