Granite Prices: How To Compare Granite Deals

Here are 10 things to consider when getting granite deals.

Get a personal quote at home to ensure that the price is concrete and based on facts, not assumptions. Make sure that once the appraiser visits your home, the price provided is final and not subject to change.

Thickness – Not all granite countertops have the same thickness. 1-1/4″ granite is considered the standard thickness. Thinner granites are often used in bathroom vanities and laundry rooms. Make sure the thickness of your granite countertops is included in the offer. .

slab display – One variable in the cost of completing granite countertops is the quality/pattern of the granite being used. Not all 1 1/4″ granite is created equal. There are parts of granite slabs that have unsightly patterns that you wouldn’t want to see on your kitchen island. In a good granite store, some granites will never be used. Other granite stores granite use every square inch regardless of pattern.Your estimate should include the opportunity to view the slab you are purchasing and design your project on the slab.This allows you to see how the granite will flow BEFORE it is manufactured.

 

edge detail – Different edges take different amounts of time to manufacture. Most companies will have 1-4 “standard” edge details. To get the most accurate offer, choose the benefit detail you want to have and price with that benefit. If you have a couple of different rim selections that you like, you may want to have a given option price for each of them.

granite sealer – Many companies do a simple sealer on your granite that will need to be reapplied after 1-2 years to keep your granite sealed and protected. Others have gone to new sealants that last up to 15 years. It’s best to order a 15-year sealer, and if that’s not available, ask for a free sealing service for the life of the granite. The sealing process is quick and easy for a professional.

 splash guard – Most granite installations look best with a 4-6″ backsplash where the countertops meet the wall and/or cabinets (known as a backsplash). If this is something you are going to want, be sure that it is included in the offer Many companies do not include the backsplash in their offer and charge it when you say you want it.

cuts – Granite is not easy to cut, so many companies charge for the necessary cutting of granite. Examples of cutouts are faucets/sink/stove or any other necessary holes in your granite. It’s best to know what cutouts you’ll need and ask them to price you accordingly.

 

Delivery/Installation/Taxes – WOW! This bid is 30% less than the others! No, it’s not: that offer does not include delivery of your granite countertop, installation, or sales tax. In most offers, all 3 should be included. A complete kitchen will require 2-3 people for half a day to set it up properly. That time costs money and is calculated into the total cost. If you’re buying a single vanity, you can pick it up and install it yourself, and in those cases, make sure the offer reflects that.

existing caps – Well, your new granite countertops are installed and gleaming. Now what are you going to do with the old ones? If you want the installers to remove your old countertops and take them away, be sure to ask for it in your offer. This is a very common practice.

Warranty – Last but not least, you’ll want to check the quality of the warranty that comes with your new countertops. Good companies stand behind your granite, installation and sealing. Be sure to compare warranties. Properly sealed and installed granite is very durable, and limited lifetime warranties are not uncommon.

Getting the right information about your granite countertop bid will allow you to compare bids more easily and should also give you a more realistic cost of what the job will actually cost. You should also make sure your estimate (based on plans or measurements on the site) is a “locked-in” price, so you know exactly what you’re getting at what price.