Kitchen Countertop Replacement Expenses To Consider

Kitchen countertop replacement is a large and expensive project that involves much more than ripping out the old and putting in the new. Be sure to consider all of the actual costs as well as the hassle, mess, and time of construction before you commit to a traditional removal and replacement of your countertops. Are you prepared to be without a kitchen for several days or even weeks? Does the sticker price include installation, fabrication, and sink cut-outs? Also, be aware of plumbinmg, drywall, or tile repairs and disposal fees that will be added to your final bill. Natural stone counters are beautifil and offer a wide variety of styles, but their high cost puts huge limitations on what else in the home can be updated. In addition, stone countertops do require sealing and polishing every 6 months with a quality, penetrating sealer and only approved cleaners may be used for daily cleaning. Without regular sealing, your new countertops may become cloudy and stained. You must also avoid dulling, staining, or etching the finish. With replacement costs ranging from $39-$120 per square foot (without added costs) and high maintenance demands, it’s easy to see why homeowners are now searching for alternatives for their countertop updates.