Updating your kitchen is a big home improvement project. Choosing the right countertops is key and can affect the cost a lot. On average, fitting a new kitchen in the UK costs about £1,000 and takes around 4 days1.
The cost of new kitchen countertops varies a lot. It depends on your kitchen’s size, the materials you pick, and how complex the job is.
Kitchen installation costs can start at £500 for small, simple jobs1. But, for bigger or more complex projects, it can go up to £1,500 or more1.
For a small kitchen (about 9m²) with basic fixtures, the total cost is around £2,500. This includes £2,000 for materials and £500 for labour over 4 days1.
For a medium kitchen (about 15m²) with premium fixtures, costs average £6,850. This includes £5,850 for materials and £1,000 for labour over 5 days1.
And for a large kitchen (about 20m²) with medium quality fixtures, costs range from £8,700 to £10,700. This includes £7,200 to £9,200 for materials and £1,500 for labour over 6 days1.
Understanding Kitchen Worktop Materials and Their Costs
Choosing the right worktop material is key in kitchen renovations. It affects both cost and look. Options range from marble worktops and granite countertops to quartz surfaces and laminate kitchen worktops. Each has its own benefits and price2.
Natural Stone Options
Natural stones like marble, granite, and quartzite are durable and stylish. Marble worktops cost between £184 to £369+VAT per metre. Granite countertops are £179 to £215+VAT per metre. Quartzite worktops range from £305 to £331+VAT per metre2.
Engineered Materials
Quartz surfaces are a favourite, priced between £115 and £185 per metre. Porcelain and ceramic worktops are pricier, from £275 to £542+VAT per metre2.
Budget-Friendly Alternatives
Laminate kitchen worktops are affordable, costing £17 to £41 per square foot. Tile is also budget-friendly, with prices from £3 to £30 per square foot2.
The cost of kitchen worktops can change based on material quality, thickness, and design2. Splashback costs and sink installation can also affect the budget2.
| Material | Price Range (per linear meter) |
|---|---|
| Marble | £184 – £369+VAT |
| Granite | £179 – £215+VAT |
| Quartzite | £305 – £331+VAT |
| Quartz | £115 – £185 |
| Porcelain | £275 – £542+VAT |
| Laminate | £17 – £41 per square foot |
| Tile | £3 – £30 per square foot |
Knowing the cost differences helps homeowners choose wisely. Getting advice from a kitchen expert can also help. This ensures a successful and affordable kitchen makeover2.
“The choice of kitchen worktop material can significantly impact the overall cost and aesthetic of the space.”
Average Kitchen Worktop Installation Costs in the UK for 2024
Updating your kitchen can be a big deal, especially when it comes to worktops. In the UK, expect to pay between £300-£600+VAT3 for installation in 2024. The cost varies based on location, slab number, and installation complexity.
A standard worktop is about 3.5 meters long and 60cm wide3. You can choose from 20mm, 12mm, or 30mm thickness. Edge finishes like pencil or bevel might add £60-£120+VAT per meter3.
| Worktop Material | Average Cost Per Square Metre (£) |
|---|---|
| Laminate | £20 – £50 |
| Solid Wood | £50 – £150 |
| Granite | £250 – £400 |
| Marble | £300 – £400 |
| Quartz | £200 – £500 |
| Glass | £300 – £500 |
| Slate | £100 – £300 |
| Concrete | £250 – £500 |
| Copper | £300 – £500 |
The table shows the average cost per square meter for different materials in the UK4. Keep in mind, prices can change based on brand, design, and quality.
When planning your worktop installation, remember to factor in material and labor costs. Labor can cost between £55 to £75 per meter5. Consider removal of old worktops, installation complexity, and extra features like sink cutouts for the final price5.
Knowing the average costs for 2024 helps homeowners plan their kitchen updates. It ensures they stay within budget while achieving their desired look and function354.
How Much to Install New Kitchen Countertops: Complete Breakdown
Installing new kitchen countertops can cost a lot, depending on several things. The material you choose and how the installation is done are key. Knowing all the costs is important for anyone planning to renovate their kitchen6.
Material Costs Per Square Metre
The cost of kitchen worktops varies a lot. Laminate worktops start at £3 per square foot, while quartz can be up to £200 per square foot. On average, you’ll pay about £80 per square foot6.
Laminate worktops cost between £200 to £800. Quartz, being more expensive, can make your budget go up to £4,2006.
Installation Labour Charges
The cost of labour for installing kitchen worktops also changes a lot. Kitchen fitters or builders charge between £150 to £200 per day6. The job usually takes 1 to 1.5 days to finish6.
Additional Installation Expenses
There are extra costs to think about when installing new countertops. This includes new appliances (£150 to £5,000+)6, new lighting (£7 to £35 per light, plus £150 to £200 for installation)6, and smart systems. Splashbacks can add 40 to 60% to your budget6. Hob cut-outs and sink installations are usually included in quotes6.
The total cost to install new countertops can change a lot. It depends on the material, whether it’s custom or off-the-shelf, the size, and thickness6. But, replacing your worktops can make your kitchen look new, be more hygienic, and feel like a whole new kitchen without a full renovation6.
To make your kitchen renovation successful and affordable, research well. Compare quotes and choose reliable kitchen installation services7.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Laminate Worktops | £200 – £800 |
| Quartz Worktops | £4,000 – £10,000 |
| Appliance Integration | £150 – £5,000+ |
| Lighting Installation | £150 – £200 per job |
| Splashback Addition | 40% – 60% increase |
| Labour Charges | £150 – £200 per day |
“The investment in replacing kitchen worktops can provide numerous benefits, such as updating the kitchen’s appearance, achieving a more hygienic surface, and creating the feeling of a brand-new kitchen without a full renovation.”6
Factors Affecting Worktop Installation Prices
The cost of installing new kitchen worktops can vary due to several factors. The size of your kitchen is a big factor. Smaller kitchens, around 9 square metres, cost less than larger ones, up to 20 square metres8.
The type of worktop material you choose also matters. Basic materials like laminate cost between £20 to £50 per square metre9. On the other hand, premium materials like imported quartzites can cost up to £542 per linear metre installed8. The complexity of the installation, including features like splashbacks and integrated sinks, can also affect the price8.
The location of your property can also impact costs. In places like London and the Southeast, prices for natural stone worktops are higher, ranging from £179 to £369 + VAT8. Kitchen islands, which are usually 2500mm long and 900mm deep, may add £300 to £600+VAT to your budget8. Custom features and special requests can also increase the final cost. So, it’s important to think about these factors when planning your kitchen worktop upgrade.
FAQ
What is the average cost to install new kitchen worktops in the UK?
Installing new kitchen worktops in the UK costs about £1,000 on average. Prices change based on the material, size, and project complexity. Small kitchens cost £2,500-£4,000, medium ones £4,350-£6,850, and large ones £6,700-£10,700. Labour costs vary from £500-£1,500, depending on the kitchen size.
What are the costs for different worktop materials?
Worktop material costs start at £2,000 for basic quality and can go over £9,000 for premium. Marble (£184-£369+VAT per linear metre), Granite (£179-£215+VAT per linear metre), and Quartzite (£305-£331+VAT per linear metre) are pricey. Quartz (£115-£185 per linear metre) and Porcelain (£275-£542+VAT per linear metre) are also popular. For a budget, Laminate (£17-£41 per square foot) and Tile (£3-£30 per square foot) are good choices.
How much will kitchen worktop installation cost in 2024?
In 2024, installing kitchen worktops will cost between £300-£600+VAT. The price depends on the location, number of slabs, and installation complexity. A typical worktop is 3.5 linear metres long and 60cm wide, with a 20mm thickness. Edge finishes like pencil, bevel, or mitre add £60-£120+VAT per linear metre.
What are the key factors that influence worktop installation prices?
Several factors affect worktop prices. These include kitchen size, material quality, installation complexity, location, and extra features. Kitchen islands and customisation also impact the cost. Edge treatments and special features can increase the price a lot.
What are the typical material costs and labour charges for kitchen worktop installation?
Material costs are £3-£200 per square foot, averaging £80. Labour costs are £150-£200 per day. Extra costs include appliance integration (£150-£5,000+), lighting (£7-£35 per light plus £150-£200 installation), and smart systems. Splashbacks can add 40-60% to the budget. Hob cut-outs and sink installations are usually included in quotes.
