How much does it cost to refinish countertops?
Over time, your countertop will suffer general wear and begin to look outdated. Maybe you’re contemplating whether to refinish or replace a countertop. If the idea of cost efficiency appeals to you, it’s time you consider refinishing the countertops. Besides extending their lifespan, you get a clean new look. This brings us to the question, how much does it cost to refinish countertops?
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On average, you should expect to spend $150 to $1000 for the whole project. But several factors can impact the cost. The actual cost will depend on the materials of the original countertop, size, complexity of work, and extent of the damage.
Countertop materials
The refinishing method will depend on the type of countertop you have at home.
Wood
Wooden countertops must be sanded down before applying varnish or a fresh coat of paint. Again, this will depend on the type of wood. The cost should average $200 and $500.
Tile
Refinishing tiles could mean applying epoxy or replacing the old tiles. The average cost of repair can be $300 to $400.
Laminate
The process of restoring laminate counters is straightforward. Usually, a new sheet is applied to get rid of those stubborn spots. But regardless of the technique, the cost of the material can go up to $600.
Cost of labor
Countertops come in different materials, each requiring different refinishing techniques. And when you hire a contractor, the labor costs average $40 to $80 per hour. Your overall cost will also depend on the finish you choose like:
Epoxy
Natural stones require Epoxy to seal any flaws. Generally, Epoxy costs more than the other materials and is available in different styles. The cost of labor to refinish marble and granite countertops is $100 to $600 for the whole project.
For marble countertops, the cost can go higher considering that you have to polish the surface and seal the cracks. If you use granite overlay, you’ll spend $5 to $20 per square foot.
Laminate
Laminate is the least expensive countertop to refinish due to the simplicity of installation. By adding a new sheet of laminate, you cover any dents and scratches that may have developed over time. And you can choose a color that suits you best. The cost of labor can average from $5 to $10 per square foot. You should expect to spend between $100 and $400 to refinish the whole countertop.
Paint and sealant
Sometimes, all you need to refresh your counter is adding a fresh coat of paint. If you use a wood or blocker countertop, you should expect to pay $200 to $500.
Polymer resin
It’s similar to Epoxy settings and can be found in a huge range of colors to suit your needs. The cost of polymer resins is $4 to $10 per square foot.
Cultured stone
Refinishing solid surfaces like Corian can average $90 to $120 per square foot.
Do I hire a professional or go the DIY route?
While refinishing a countertop is something you can do, hiring a pro guarantees the best results. If the service is not meticulously prepared, the end result can be disappointing. In addition to that, the refinishing material must be applied precisely. Thankfully, kitchen and bathroom contractors have the right tools and expertise to get the job done with minimal disruption of your routine. Since there’s so much at stake, you’re better off working with a professional.
Be sure to source multiple quotes to ensure you get the best bang for your buck.
