Changing your kitchen exterior can absolutely change the method your kitchen textures. A fresh, modern top can make cooking more enjoyable and give the whole space a new life. But before you start flipping through catalogs or checking out samples, you need to know one thing — how much it’s going to cost. Prices can be anywhere from simple and affordable to premium and pricey. Without a plan, it’s easy to go overboard.
This guide will walk you through how to figure out the cost of upgrading your kitchen surface. We’ll go over the main things that affect price, check out what countertop companies might offer, and talk about materials — including the always-popular granite especially at Milwaukee, plus what the granite cost could look like for your project.
Why You Should Estimate the Cost First
Upgrading your kitchen is exciting, but it’s also a big investment. Jumping in without a cost estimate could mean you start something you can’t finish or choose materials that are way over budget. Getting the numbers first helps you:
- Make a budget that actually works for you
- Avoid nasty surprises halfway through
- Pick materials based on value, not just looks
Step 1: Measure Your Kitchen Surface Area
Start with a tape measure. You’ll need the size of your existing counters before you can get any real pricing.
Here’s how to measure:
- Measure the length and width of each section.
- Increase the distance by the width to get four-sided footage.
- Add up the total from all sections.
Example:
One counter is 5 feet by 2 feet — that’s 10 sq. ft. Another is 6 feet by 2 feet — that’s 12 sq. ft. Together, that’s 22 sq. ft.
Tip: Most countertop companies in Milwaukee price by the square foot, so having this ready means you’ll get faster and more accurate quotes.
Step 2: Pick Your Material
Your choice of material is the biggest factor in cost. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Granite
Strong, heat-resistant, and naturally beautiful.
- Average granite cost: $40–$100 per sq. ft., depending on style and color.
- Pros: Durable, great resale value, unique patterns.
- Cons: Needs sealing to prevent stains.
Quartz
Engineered stone with a consistent look.
- Average cost: $50–$120 per sq. ft.
- Pros: Low maintenance, stain-resistant, lots of color options.
- Cons: Not as heat-friendly as granite.
Marble
Classic and stylish, but needs extra care.
- Average cost: $50–$150 per sq. ft.
- Pros: Timeless, beautiful veining.
- Cons: Can scratch and stain easily.
Laminate
Affordable and available in plenty of designs.
- Average cost: $10–$40 per sq. ft.
- Pros: Budget-friendly, lightweight, easy to install.
- Cons: Not as durable, lower resale value.
Step 3: Add in Labor Costs
Materials are only part of the bill. Labor can make a big difference, especially if old countertops need to be removed or the design is complicated.
Average labor costs:
- Granite: $35–$60 per sq. ft.
- Quartz: $30–$50 per sq. ft.
- Laminate: $15–$25 per sq. ft.
More complex shapes, sink cutouts, or backsplashes will raise the price.
Step 4: Remember the Extra Costs
It’s informal to forget around smaller particulars that improve up.
Mutual appurtenances include:
- Advantage designs — Round or beveled limits can add $10–$20 per lined foot.
- Sealing — For granite, this can cost $50–$200 depending on the size.
- Backsplash — Adds both material and labor costs.
- Delivery fees — Some countertop companies cover this, others don’t.
Step 5: Compare Local Quotes
Once you know your square footage and the type of material you want, get quotes from countertop companies in Milwaukee.
When comparing quotes, make sure to:
- Get at least three estimates
- Check what’s included (installation, sealing, delivery)
- Ask if they have leftover materials — smaller kitchens can often save money this way
Example Price Breakdowns
Let’s look at two examples for a 40 sq. ft. kitchen:
Granite example:
- Material: 40 sq. ft. × $60 (mid-range granite cost) = $2,400
- Labor: 40 sq. ft. × $40 = $1,600
- Extras (edges + sealing): $300
- Total: $4,300
Laminate example:
- Material: 40 sq. ft. × $25 = $1,000
- Labor: 40 sq. ft. × $20 = $800
- Extras: $150
- Total: $1,950
Ways to Save on Your Upgrade
If the total feels too high, there are ways to cut back without losing style.
- Pick a more affordable material — If granite cost is too much, try quartz with a granite-like design or a high-end laminate.
- Use leftovers — Ask around leftover pieces from superior occupations.
- Avoid too many custom cuts — Simple shapes keep labor costs lower.
Final Thoughts
Estimating the price of a kitchen surface upgrade comes down to measuring your space, picking a material that works for your budget, and knowing the extra costs ahead of time. With clear numbers, you can choose between quartz, marble, or the timeless look of granite without stressing over the bill. By comparing quotes from countertop companies in Milwaukee and keeping granite cost in mind, you’ll be able to plan a kitchen upgrade that looks great and lasts for years.
FAQs
- Q1: How much does granite usually cost in Milwaukee?
The granite cost in Milwaukee can range from $40 to $100 per sq. ft., depending on color, quality, and supplier. - Q2: How lengthy does it income to fix new countertops?
- Most installations take one to three days, depending on the size and complexity of the job.
- Q3: Can I connect kitchen exteriors myself to accept money?
You can, but professional installation ensures better fit, finish, and durability — especially with heavy.