This bar is a prime example as to why you can't just quote a granite countertop by the square foot.
The cost of granite countertops is actually based on many different variables other than square footage. Sure the square footage of the actual granite countertop itself is taken into consideration, but so are the lay-out options, complexity of shapes, granite color selection, quality grade of the granite stone itself, customer requirements, edge detail, seam location, quantity and type of cut-outs, rod reinforcement, how many holes are drilled, geographical location of the project, stone thickness and those variables will just get you started.
When considering the price of granite countertops, it is popular for granite fabricators to offer a base level category of granite colors. Typically this category is the most competitively priced granite for countertops that the fabricator offers. The base level category can have significant differences from one fabricator to another. Depending on the stone fabricator, these choices of granite colors may or may not be popular granite selections. Some granite companies will offer cheap low cost granite that is not exactly appealing or popular, as a way to lure customers into the door. Other fabricators are very efficient in the way they process granite and can offer discount granite countertops with great value including popular granite colors and choices. Some fabricators import containers of granite directly from overseas and others will only purchase granite from local distributors in various quantities. The way the fabricator elects to purchase and process granite slabs will impact the cost of granite countertops.
Over the years I have given the analogy that purchasing granite is similar to purchasing a diamond. Although I don’t know as much about diamonds as I do granite, I know enough to say that all diamonds of equal size are not the same price. I believe that the cut and clarity of a diamond reflects a great deal of it’s pricing. So, when shopping for granite countertops, pay particular attention to the amount of depth, clarity and movement within the granite slabs or granite samples. Stone fabricators can save money if they purchase granite slabs that have unsightly marks, excessive fissures, short lengths and lack of depth or clarity. These factors will effect the cost of granite countertops.
Pre-fabricated granite countertops are typically more affordable than custom fabricated granite countertops. Although countertops with per-fabricated edges are cheap and readily available to the professional and non-professional installer, they are usually limited on colors, shapes, sizes, edge profiles and capabilities. Customers requirements might effect whether or not the counters should be custom fabricated and this will effect the pricing of granite countertops.
It is typical for marble and granite suppliers to offer stone slabs in both 2 and 3 cm thickness, but not in all colors. When a granite color is available in a 2 cm slab, it is usually lesser expensive than 3 cm slabs. Keep in mind that the 3 cm thickness usually offers better structural strength and is also a standard for most stone fabricators and suppliers.
Supreme Surface, Inc. has three Indiana locations including Columbus, Greenwood and Indianapolis, Indiana. Each Design Studio location offers granite countertops, natural stone tile showers and custom marble and travertine floors. Learn more visit www.supremesurface.com
Keep your granite looking like new with proper care and maintenance. For more information on the Supreme Surface Granite Cleaner visit www.supremesurfacecleaner.com. Or visit their cleaning blog at http://www.supremesurfacecleaner.com/blog.