Getting a quote from a design-build firm is a different experience—and for good reason. Because we manage every step of the process in-house, from the initial design and material selection in our showroom to the final installation by our own skilled crews, our proposals are comprehensive from the start. There’s no guesswork about coordinating different vendors or surprise costs from subcontractors. We build a complete project plan around your vision and budget. This guide explains what you should expect to see when you get a quote for countertop replacement from an integrated team, ensuring total clarity and confidence before any work begins.
Key Takeaways
- A clear quote prevents surprises: Your proposal should itemize everything—the specific material, fabrication, demolition, and plumbing—so you know exactly what you’re paying for and can avoid hidden fees.
- Choose a surface that fits your life: Think honestly about your daily routine. A busy family kitchen might need a low-maintenance workhorse like quartz, while a showpiece kitchen could feature the unique beauty of natural stone.
- The best bid offers the most value, not just the lowest price: Compare the full picture, including the contractor’s communication style, project timeline, and warranties. A slightly higher price often buys you a smoother experience and lasting quality.
What Goes Into a Countertop Replacement Quote?
When you get a quote for new countertops, you’re looking at more than just a final number. A detailed proposal breaks down every cost associated with transforming your kitchen, giving you a clear picture of where your investment is going. Understanding these components helps you compare bids accurately and feel confident in your decision. From the slab you fall in love with to the skilled hands that install it, several key factors shape the total price. Let’s walk through what you should expect to see in a comprehensive countertop quote.
The Material You Choose
The single biggest factor influencing your quote is the material itself. Countertops come in a wide range of styles and price points, each with its own look and performance characteristics. Popular choices like quartz offer incredible durability and low maintenance for busy households, while natural stones like granite and marble provide one-of-a-kind veining and timeless appeal. Visiting a design showroom is the best way to see and touch these options in person. Generally, you can expect materials to be priced per square foot, installed, with common ranges being $40–$100 for quartz and $70–$230 for high-quality granite or marble.
Labor and Installation
Professional installation is not just about placing a heavy slab on your cabinets—it’s a multi-step process that requires precision and expertise. Your quote’s labor costs cover several critical tasks: creating a precise digital template of your cabinets, fabricating the stone at a workshop, transporting the finished pieces to your home, and performing the final installation. This includes leveling the countertops, seaming sections together seamlessly, and ensuring a perfect fit around walls and appliances. Investing in a skilled team for your kitchen remodeling project protects your material investment and guarantees a beautiful, long-lasting result.
Your Kitchen’s Size and Layout
It makes sense that the bigger your kitchen, the more your countertops will cost. Quotes are based on the total square footage of material needed. A small galley kitchen will naturally require less material than a large, open-concept space with a sprawling island. Beyond just size, a complex layout with L-shapes, peninsulas, or multiple angles can also increase the cost. These designs often require more cuts and additional seams, which adds to both the fabrication and installation time. A standard 30- to 40-square-foot kitchen countertop replacement can give you a baseline, but your unique layout will determine the final figures.
Potential Hidden Costs
A transparent quote should itemize every expense, leaving no room for surprises. However, it’s helpful to know about costs that might not be immediately obvious. For example, does the quote include the demolition and disposal of your old countertops? What about cutouts for your sink, faucet, and cooktop? These typically add to the cost. Another detail is the edge profile. A simple, straight edge is often standard, but a more decorative ogee or bullnose edge requires extra fabrication and will be an additional line item. A clear remodeling process ensures these details are discussed and documented upfront.
Common Myths About Countertop Replacement
Deciding to replace your countertops is exciting, but it’s easy to get bogged down by conflicting advice and common misconceptions. You might hear that it’s a simple weekend project or that the material you love is impossible to maintain. These myths can make the process feel more complicated than it needs to be. The truth is, with the right information and a trusted partner, you can choose new countertops with confidence.
Let’s clear up a few of the most common myths we hear from homeowners. Understanding the reality behind installation, durability, maintenance, and cost will help you make a smart investment in your home. Instead of relying on guesswork, you can focus on finding a material that fits your lifestyle, matches your design vision, and works for your budget. A successful remodel starts with facts, not fiction, and we’re here to set the record straight.
The Truth About Installation
One of the biggest myths is that countertop installation is a straightforward DIY job. While it might look simple on a home improvement show, replacing countertops is a precise process that leaves very little room for error. Templating, cutting, leveling, and seaming require specialized tools and expertise to get right. An improper installation can lead to uneven surfaces, visible gaps, or even damage to your new slab or cabinetry. Entrusting this work to a professional team ensures a perfect fit and a flawless finish that lasts. Our in-house crews handle every detail, so you can relax knowing the job is done correctly from start to finish.
How Durable Are Different Materials?
It’s easy to assume that all stone is indestructible, but durability isn’t one-size-fits-all. Each material has its own unique strengths. For example, natural stones like granite and marble are incredibly durable and heat-resistant, but their porous nature means they need periodic sealing to resist stains. On the other hand, engineered quartz is non-porous and highly scratch-resistant, making it a workhorse in busy kitchens. The key is to match the material’s properties to your daily life. Thinking about how you use your kitchen or bathroom will help you choose a surface that not only looks beautiful but also stands up to your routine. Seeing the options in person at our San Diego showroom can make this decision much clearer.
What “Low-Maintenance” Really Means
The term “low-maintenance” often gets tossed around, but what does it actually mean? Many homeowners believe that a beautiful countertop automatically equals a lot of work, but that’s not always the case. While some materials do require regular care, many modern options are designed to be incredibly user-friendly. For instance, quartz never needs to be sealed, and spills wipe away easily with soap and water. This makes it a truly low-maintenance choice for a busy kitchen remodel. Understanding the specific upkeep for each material helps you set realistic expectations and find a surface that fits seamlessly into your life, not one that adds to your to-do list.
Balancing Price and Quality
Perhaps the most common myth is that high-quality countertops come with an impossibly high price tag. While premium and exotic materials can be a significant investment, there are fantastic, durable, and beautiful options available at nearly every price point. Quality isn’t just about cost; it’s about getting the best value for your budget. A knowledgeable designer can guide you toward materials that deliver the look and performance you want without breaking the bank. By exploring different options and understanding the full scope of the project, you can find a perfect balance between the aesthetic you love and a price you’re comfortable with. Our featured projects showcase stunning results across a range of budgets.
How to Choose the Right Countertop Material
Choosing a countertop isn’t just about picking a color you like; it’s about selecting a surface that fits your life. The right material can make daily routines smoother and become the centerpiece of your kitchen remodel. Think of it as a long-term investment in your home’s function and style. From morning coffee spills to holiday meal prep, your counters will see it all. Let’s walk through the key factors to consider so you can feel confident in your decision.
Durability and Daily Use
First, be honest about how you use your space. Are you an avid home chef who needs a surface that can handle hot pans and aggressive chopping? Or is your kitchen more of a social hub for homework and entertaining? Natural stones like granite are famously durable and heat-resistant, but because they’re porous, they can be susceptible to stains if not sealed properly. On the other hand, engineered materials like quartz offer incredible resilience against scratches and stains with zero sealing required, making them a favorite for busy families. Your lifestyle is the best guide for finding a material that will look great for years to come.
Upkeep and Maintenance
One of the biggest myths about countertops is that they all require tons of work. The truth is, maintenance varies widely between materials. While some natural stones need regular sealing to protect them from spills, many modern options are designed for low-maintenance living. Non-porous surfaces like quartz simply wipe clean with soap and water, no special products needed. When you’re exploring options, ask about the long-term care. Understanding what “low-maintenance” really means for each material helps you find a surface that fits not just your design vision, but also how much time you want to spend cleaning.
Style and Design Options
Your countertops are a major visual element in your kitchen or bathroom, setting the tone for the entire space. The options are nearly endless, and each surface offers a unique look and feel. Do you love the one-of-a-kind veining and drama of marble? Or do you prefer the consistent, seamless look of an ultra-compact surface? As noted by experts at Better Homes & Gardens, every material has its own personality. The best way to decide is to see them in person. Visiting a design showroom lets you touch the finishes, compare colors, and see how different materials look under proper lighting.
Environmental Considerations
For many homeowners, a remodel is an opportunity to make more sustainable choices. If this is important to you, know that there are plenty of eco-friendly surfaces available. You can find beautiful countertops made from recycled glass, paper composites, or sustainably sourced wood. Some quartz manufacturers also follow green production practices, using recycled water and materials. Don’t hesitate to ask about the sourcing and composition of different products. A good design partner can guide you toward options that are not only beautiful and durable but also align with your environmental values.
Getting the Best Value
Finally, let’s talk about value. It’s tempting to focus solely on the price tag, but the cheapest quote doesn’t always equal the best deal. True value comes from a combination of a high-quality material, expert installation, and a solid warranty. A poorly installed countertop can lead to costly repairs down the road, negating any initial savings. When comparing quotes, make sure you’re looking at the full picture—the quality of the slab, the experience of the fabricator, and the level of customer service. Investing in a reputable team ensures your new countertops will be a lasting and worthwhile addition to your home.
How to Get an Accurate Quote
Getting a clear and accurate quote is the most important step in planning your countertop replacement. It’s not just about the final number; it’s about understanding exactly what you’re paying for and setting clear expectations for the project. A detailed quote prevents surprise costs and ensures you and your contractor are on the same page from day one. To get the most reliable estimate, you’ll want to do a little prep work before you even make the first call. By gathering some key information about your space and your goals, you empower your contractor to give you a quote that truly reflects the scope of your project, helping you budget effectively and move forward with confidence.
Measure Your Space
Before you reach out for a quote, grab a tape measure and jot down some basic dimensions of your current countertops. You don’t need to be a professional drafter—just focus on the length and depth of each section. Note the height if you have a backsplash you’d also like to replace. These initial numbers give your contractor a solid idea of the material needed for your kitchen remodeling project. While your design-build team will take precise, laser-guided measurements before ordering any materials, providing these rough estimates upfront helps streamline the initial quoting process and ensures the first number you see is as accurate as possible.
Document Your Current Layout
A picture is worth a thousand words, especially when it comes to your kitchen layout. Snap a few photos of your current countertops and the surrounding area from different angles. It’s also helpful to make a simple sketch, noting the locations of your sink, cooktop, refrigerator, and any outlets. This visual information helps your contractor understand the existing conditions and identify any potential complexities, like tricky corners or appliance cutouts that might affect the installation. Sharing these details early on allows for a more thoughtful and comprehensive quote that accounts for the unique features of your space.
Prepare for the In-Home Visit
The in-home consultation is your chance to get all your questions answered and for the contractor to see the space firsthand. Before they arrive, make a list of everything you want to know. Think beyond just the price. Ask about how they’ll protect your floors and cabinets, what the cleanup process looks like, and whether the quote includes removing and disposing of your old countertops. A professional team will have a clear, step-by-step plan. Understanding our process ahead of time helps ensure there are no surprises and that you feel comfortable with the team working in your home.
Clarify Your Timeline
A beautiful new countertop is exciting, but you also need to know how long the project will take. During your consultation, be sure to ask about the estimated timeline from start to finish. Key questions include: When can the project start? How long will the actual installation take? And are there any factors, like custom material orders, that could affect the schedule? A reliable contractor will be transparent about their timeline and keep you informed about key milestones. This conversation sets realistic expectations and helps you plan your life around the installation, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
What to Look for in Your Quote
Once you have a few quotes in hand, it’s time to compare them. But it’s not as simple as picking the lowest number. A detailed, professional quote is a sign of a detailed, professional contractor. It should give you a complete picture of the project, leaving no room for expensive surprises down the road. A vague quote is a red flag. Look for a clear, itemized document that breaks down exactly what you’re paying for, from the materials themselves to the team that will bring your vision to life.
Specific Material Details
Your quote should be incredibly specific about the countertop material. It’s not enough for it to say “quartz” or “granite.” It needs to list the exact name, manufacturer, color, and thickness of the slab you chose. For example, it should specify “Caesarstone, Statuario Maximus, 3cm thickness, polished finish.” This ensures you get the exact product you fell in love with at the design showroom. The quote should also detail your chosen edge profile (like eased, beveled, or ogee) and any special features like sink or cooktop cutouts. This level of detail protects you and guarantees there are no misunderstandings about the final look.
A Breakdown of Labor Costs
Labor is much more than just the final installation. A transparent quote will break down all the work involved. This should include costs for creating a template of your cabinets, fabricating the slab, and delivering it to your home. It should also clearly state whether the price includes the demolition and disposal of your old countertops. Does the team handle disconnecting and reconnecting the plumbing for your sink and faucet? Is sealing the stone (if required) included? Getting these details in writing prevents unexpected charges and clarifies exactly what services are covered in the total price.
A Clear Project Timeline
A great countertop is worth the wait, but you shouldn’t have to guess how long that wait will be. Your quote should be accompanied by a clear and realistic project timeline. This schedule should outline key milestones, from the day you approve the quote to the final installation date. Look for estimated dates for templating, fabrication (which typically happens off-site), and the installation itself. A contractor who provides a clear project timeline shows they respect your time and have a solid process for managing their projects, which is a great indicator of a smooth and predictable experience.
Warranty and Guarantees
Peace of mind is priceless. A reputable contractor will stand behind their work, and the quote should reflect that. Look for two types of protection: a manufacturer’s warranty on the countertop material itself, which covers defects in the slab, and a workmanship guarantee from the installer. The workmanship guarantee covers any issues related to the installation quality, like improper sealing or uneven seams. Make sure you understand the duration and terms of both warranties so you know you’re covered long after the project is complete.
Any Additional Fees
The price you see should be the price you pay. A thorough quote will account for everything, leaving no room for last-minute additions. Check that the quote includes all necessary components like sink cutouts, faucet holes, and your chosen edge style. It should also clearly state whether sales tax is included in the final number. Be wary of a quote that seems significantly lower than others; it might be missing key items that will show up on the final invoice. A comprehensive, all-inclusive quote is a sign of an honest and transparent partner for your kitchen remodeling project.
Key Questions to Ask Your Contractor
Once you have a quote in hand, it’s time to dig a little deeper. Think of this as an interview—you’re hiring a team to come into your home and bring a vision to life. Asking the right questions ensures you’re partnering with a professional who values transparency, quality, and clear communication. A great contractor will welcome these questions and have thoughtful answers ready. This conversation helps you understand not just the what (the price) but the how and the why behind their work, giving you confidence in your decision.
Where do you source your materials?
Knowing where your countertops come from is a direct indicator of their quality and durability. Ask potential contractors about their suppliers and the brands they typically work with. Are they sourcing from reputable manufacturers known for high-quality quartz, granite, or marble? A contractor who has strong relationships with trusted suppliers can often guarantee better materials and more reliable availability. This is also your chance to see how they guide you through selections. A firm with a dedicated design showroom allows you to see and touch the materials firsthand, making the decision process much smoother and more tangible than just looking at small samples.
What does the installation process look like?
You need a clear picture of what to expect when the work begins. Ask for a step-by-step overview of the installation. How long will it take? Who will be in your home, and are they employees or subcontractors? How will they protect your floors, cabinets, and other belongings from dust and damage? A professional team will have a well-defined plan for managing the project from start to finish. Understanding our process upfront helps you prepare your home and minimizes disruption to your daily life, ensuring the project runs smoothly and on schedule.
What are your payment terms?
Financial clarity is non-negotiable. Your quote should be detailed, but you should still ask about the payment schedule and what each payment covers. Is a deposit required to order materials? When is the final balance due? It’s also critical to confirm what’s included in the total price. Ask directly: “Does your quote include the cost of removing and disposing of my old countertops?” Hidden fees for demolition or plumbing disconnects can quickly inflate a budget, so getting a comprehensive, fixed-price proposal protects you from unexpected costs down the road.
What does the warranty cover?
A warranty offers peace of mind, but the details matter. Don’t just ask if there’s a warranty; ask what it covers. There are often two parts: a manufacturer’s warranty on the material itself (covering defects) and a contractor’s warranty on the labor or installation. Find out the length of each warranty and what the process is for filing a claim. A reputable contractor stands behind their work and will be transparent about the protections they offer. This commitment to quality is a hallmark of a company you can trust with your kitchen remodeling project.
What kind of support do you offer after installation?
A great partnership doesn’t end when the installation is complete. Ask what kind of support you can expect after the crew leaves. Will they provide you with specific care and maintenance instructions for your new countertops? Who should you call if you notice a small issue or have a question weeks or months later? Knowing you have a reliable point of contact for post-installation support shows that the company is invested in your long-term satisfaction. This follow-up care is just as important as the initial installation, ensuring your new surfaces look beautiful for years to come.
How to Compare Multiple Quotes
Once you have a few countertop replacement quotes in hand, it’s time to compare them. But it’s not as simple as just picking the lowest number. A quote is more than a price—it’s a reflection of the quality, service, and peace of mind you can expect from a contractor. To make a confident decision, you need to understand what’s behind the numbers and look at the complete picture of what each company offers. This is about finding the best value for your home, not just the cheapest price tag.
Why Prices Can Vary
You’ll quickly notice that quotes can differ, sometimes by thousands of dollars. This isn’t necessarily a sign that someone is trying to overcharge you. The total price depends on several key factors, including the material you choose, the size of your kitchen, labor costs, and any extra features like special edges or sink cutouts. A company that handles everything in-house, from design and fabrication to installation, might have a different cost structure than one that subcontracts the work. The key is to make sure each quote is for the exact same scope of work so you can make a true apples-to-apples comparison.
Looking Beyond the Bottom Line
It’s tempting to jump on the lowest bid, but be careful. As one homeowner wisely put it, the cheapest quotes can sometimes “mean lower quality or bad customer service.” Instead of focusing only on the final number, consider the value behind it. Does the contractor have a portfolio of beautifully finished projects? Do they have a physical showroom where you can see and touch the materials? A slightly higher price from a reputable, all-in-one firm often includes better project management, clearer communication, and a team that takes full responsibility for the final result, which can save you headaches and unexpected costs down the road.
Comparing Service and Guarantees
A great countertop installation is about more than just the stone; it’s about the service that comes with it. A detailed quote should give you a sense of the company’s professionalism. One of the most important questions you can ask a potential contractor is, “Does your company offer any warranties?” A solid warranty on both materials and labor shows that a company stands behind its work. Also, consider their process. Do they protect your home during installation? Who is your point of contact? A clear, well-defined remodeling process is a strong indicator of a well-run project.
Red Flags to Watch For
As you review your quotes, keep an eye out for potential red flags. An unusually low bid can be a warning sign of subpar materials, inexperienced labor, or a contractor who plans to add surprise fees later. Be wary of quotes that are vague or lack a detailed breakdown of costs. Other red flags include high-pressure sales tactics, requests for a large upfront cash payment, or a lack of a professional website or physical business address. A trustworthy contractor will be transparent, patient, and happy to answer all of your questions without making you feel rushed.
A Quick Note on Negotiation
Getting at least three quotes is a smart strategy. It gives you a clear sense of the market rate for your project and provides a solid foundation for any discussions about price. When you talk with contractors, think of it less as haggling and more as clarifying. If one quote is higher, ask why. It might include a superior installation technique, a longer warranty, or a higher-grade material. Understanding these differences allows you to negotiate based on value, not just price, ensuring you get exactly what you want for a fair cost.
Get Ready for Installation Day
The day your new countertops arrive is one of the most exciting moments in a kitchen remodel. After all the planning and decisions, you finally get to see your vision come to life. With a design-build team like ours, the heavy lifting is on us, but a little preparation on your end ensures everything goes off without a hitch. We manage the logistics, protect your home, and keep you informed every step of the way. Your main job is to get ready for the big reveal. Here’s a simple breakdown of what to expect and how you can help make installation day a success.
How to Prep Your Kitchen
Before our installation crew arrives, take some time to clear the way. Start by removing everything from your countertops—small appliances like your coffee maker and toaster, utensil holders, and any decor. It’s also a good idea to empty the cabinets directly below your sink to give our plumbers easy access. This simple step protects your belongings and gives our team a clean, safe workspace to get the job done efficiently. We’ll handle covering your floors and adjacent areas to contain dust and debris, so you can focus on the fun part.
Managing the Project Timeline
Countertop installation is a surprisingly quick process, typically taking just one to three days. The exact timing depends on the material you’ve chosen and the complexity of your kitchen layout. As part of our process, we provide a detailed project schedule well in advance, so you’ll know exactly what to expect and when. Your dedicated project manager will be your go-to contact, providing daily updates and answering any questions that come up. Our goal is to make the entire experience predictable and stress-free, keeping your project on track from start to finish.
The Final Walkthrough
Once the installation is complete and the dust has settled, we’ll schedule a final walkthrough with you and your project manager. This is our chance to review the finished work together, ensuring every detail meets your expectations and our high standards for quality. We’ll inspect the seams, check the faucet installation, and make sure the fit and finish are perfect. It’s the moment you get to officially sign off on your beautiful new space, confident that the craftsmanship matches the stunning featured projects you saw when you first hired us.
Finalizing Your Payment
We believe in total transparency, which is why all costs are clearly outlined in your fixed-price contract before any work begins. There are no hidden fees or last-minute surprises. Your payment schedule will be detailed in your agreement, typically with a final payment due upon project completion and your complete satisfaction. Once you’ve signed off on the final walkthrough, we’ll process the remaining balance. If you have any questions about payment terms or want to discuss a future project, our team is always here to help. You can easily contact us to get started.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the entire countertop replacement process take, from the first meeting to the final installation? While every project is unique, a typical countertop replacement can take anywhere from three to six weeks. This timeline covers everything from your initial consultation and material selection in our showroom to the precise templating of your space, the off-site fabrication of your chosen slab, and the final installation. Working with an integrated team helps keep this process moving smoothly since we manage all the steps under one roof.
Do I need to hire my own plumber to handle the sink and faucet? Not when you work with us. Our process is designed to be a complete, end-to-end service, which means we coordinate all the necessary trades for you. Our team includes skilled professionals who will handle disconnecting your old plumbing and reconnecting your new sink and faucet once the countertops are in place. This ensures the entire installation is seamless and you don’t have to juggle multiple contractors.
Can I replace my countertops without damaging my existing backsplash? It’s definitely possible, but it requires a very careful approach. Removing old countertops can sometimes cause minor scuffs or chips to the bottom row of tiles, no matter how skilled the team is. Our installers are experts at protecting the surrounding areas and will take every precaution. We’ll assess your specific situation during the consultation and discuss the potential risks with you upfront so you can make an informed decision.
What’s the real benefit of visiting a showroom versus just picking a material online? Seeing materials on a screen can be misleading because colors and textures don’t always translate accurately. In a showroom, you can see how a slab looks under proper lighting, feel its texture, and compare different options side-by-side. It’s also a chance to place a cabinet door sample next to a countertop to see how they truly work together. Having a designer with you to guide the process makes it much easier to find the perfect fit for your home.
For a busy family, is quartz or granite the better choice? Both are fantastic, durable options, but they suit different lifestyles. Quartz is a workhorse because it’s non-porous, meaning it resists stains from things like juice or wine without ever needing to be sealed. Granite offers a beautiful, natural look and is very heat-resistant, but it is porous and requires sealing every year or so to keep it protected. The best choice really comes down to whether you prefer the near-zero maintenance of quartz or the one-of-a-kind look of natural stone.
