The rate of granite is different in different places. The prices in the US vary from $60 to $120 according to one estimate and discount granite countertops are available for as less as $30 per foot –both not including installation. The cost premium is not in the stone itself but usually in its transportation to the site.
Granite is usually priced on the basis of three of four groupings or tiers. The first tier is the costliest and so on. They cost is determined by various considerations such as the country of origin, colour, slab thickness, amount of soft material in the rock etc. Some colours give a percept of movement in the stone. It is the vein, pattern and the movement that generally give granite the premium pricing.
Granite countertops of lower tier or the commercial grade may have pits that need filling. They are normally harder than the upper tier variety. Cheaper countertops are thinner slabs that need additional cabinet support and penetrating sealant which may add to the final cost. Cheaper, thinner cut countertops may be less than 2 cm in thickness.
Granite is shipped from Asian countries especially India. This brings down the cost of the finished product as this creates less waste shipped to the supplier. Besides the fabrication is done in countries where the wages are lower and hence the savings are passed on the end customer.
The buyer has to borne the cost of the three square foot wastage in the cutting and fabricating of the slab. When it comes to granite shopping and installation the best method is to seek the consultation of professionals. Large slabs have to be delicately and precisely cut and expensive mistakes could dent the purse of the do-it-yourself home owner.
The rate difference can be observed from the following example: In India for example a Black Galaxy slab of 10 mm thickness (305X305) costs Rs 30 per sqm and a similar sized Tan Brown Rs 28 per sqm. A (150X60) 18 mm polished granite slab costs between Rs 27 and Rs 45 if it is Tan Brown or Black Galaxy. These are September 2009 rates.
Granite kitchen countertops are really admired and demanded by many homeowners. But due to the expensive cost of granite, many a people opt for discount granite countertops in order to make their kitchens interesting with a touch of sophistication, elegance and classy style.
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