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Granite Countertops(1 of 7)

Countertops come in many natural materials, such as granite and wood as well as man-made materials such as laminates and steel. And to reflect the range of options is a range of cost. As a rule of thumb, plan anywhere from $75 to $125 per linear foot for a counter and backsplash to be installed.

Granite is usually the most expensive. The main advantage of granite is it's not damaged by heat, it's completely fireproof, it doesn't chip and it has a high resistance of staining. The negative is weight and installation. In fact, granite is the heaviest choice, short of concrete.

The biggest caution would be to make sure that the foundation is properly designed to handle the weight of granite.

The cost differential for granite is extensive. If using a granite tile that's 12"x12" in size versus a granite slab, the slab is going to cost approximately $75 per square foot. And the same tiles in low-end granite will run $5 to $6 a square foot. The installation is another $15 to $20 a square foot.

If granite isn't your cup of tea, consider a man-made product known as solid surface material. These products are extremely versatile and can be cut into unique shapes. More than 100 colors can be offered and with a seamless appearance. Compared to granite, these materials are a little more than half the cost.