Kitchen worktop replacement costs explained by our expertise
In the UK, replacing kitchen worktops can be a significant investment, with costs varying based on the material chosen and the size of the work area. Here's a breakdown of the average costs for some common materials and where to find more affordable options.
For a professional installation, quartz worktops typically cost around £250 per metre, with an average total cost of £1,250 for 5 metres including installation [1]. Granite worktops, on the other hand, generally cost between £270 to £600 per square metre, with installations taking 2 to 3 days on average, amounting to a typical price per square metre of about £435 [3]. Corian worktops can cost roughly £400 to £600 per square metre to purchase, with professional installation ranging between £1,150 and £2,600 for 2 to 4 square metres [5].
If you're looking for more budget-friendly options, off-the-shelf worktops made from materials like laminate can be found at DIY stores or kitchen specialists. Retailers like B&Q, Wickes, Howdens, and IKEA in the UK offer such options at lower prices compared to bespoke quartz or granite [4].
For those considering a DIY approach, the cost of materials varies depending on quantity, quality, type of material, whether it's bespoke or off-the-shelf, and which accessories are chosen. It's important to note that while DIY installation can bring labor costs down to zero, it requires an investment of time and effort.
Premium kitchen worktops, such as those from Moderne, Cambrian Granite, and Laminam, can cost several thousand pounds or more for a custom installation. These high-quality materials offer exceptional durability, a timeless aesthetic, and low maintenance requirements [2][6][7].
Notable experts in the field include Clive Holland, a leading property and DIY expert who previously hosted Cowboy Trap on the BBC and now broadcasts on Fix Radio. Gavin Shaw, the Managing Director of Laminam UK, is another industry veteran with over 20 years of experience in the stone surface industry [8].
Screwfix is another source for affordable off-the-shelf kitchen worktops, offering over 100 options. High-quality porcelain surfaces, like those from Laminam, start at £410 per square metre for a 12mm surface, providing exceptional durability and low maintenance requirements [6].
Choosing a premium and sustainable material for kitchen worktops may require a larger initial budget, but it can lead to long-term savings as the worktop will last longer. Alternatively, opting for a DIY approach can help reduce project costs significantly [9].
In summary, the cost of replacing kitchen worktops in the UK can range from about £1,000 up to several thousand pounds depending on size and material. Quartz, granite, and Corian are premium options, while budget-friendly materials like laminate can be found at DIY stores and kitchen specialists. For those considering a DIY installation, costs for materials vary, and it's important to consider the time and effort involved.
- A guide on the costs of replacing kitchen worktops in the UK might be helpful, as the prices change based on the material.
- Professional installation of quartz worktops can cost around £250 per meter, adding up to an average of £1,250 for 5 meters including installation.
- If one prefers granite worktops, expect costs to range between £270 to £600 per square meter, with installation taking 2 to 3 days on average.
- Home-and-garden stores like B&Q, Wickes, Howdens, and IKEA offer budget-friendly laminate worktops at lower prices compared to bespoke quartz or granite worktops.
- Choosing a DIY approach for installing worktops can help with labor costs, but time and effort must be invested.
- high-end brands like Moderne, Cambrian Granite, and Laminam offer long-lasting, low-maintenance worktops, but come with a price tag of several thousand pounds or more for custom installation.
- Notable experts in the field include Clive Holland and Gavin Shaw, who have extensive experience in the property and stone surface industries.
- Additionally, Screwfix offers over 100 off-the-shelf kitchen worktops, with high-quality porcelain surfaces from Laminam starting at £410 per square meter for a 12mm surface.
