Cost
- Marble Countertop Costs:
- Average price: $60/sq ft.
- Range: $40–$100+/sq ft depending on quality and type.
- Most expensive: Calacatta Marble ($180/sq ft).
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Cheapest: Makrana Marble ($12/sq ft).
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Labor & Installation:
- Labor cost: $35–$45/hour.
- Total labor for typical 10-hour job: $350–$450.
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Materials (e.g., caulk, screws): $100–$200.
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Additional Costs:
- Removal of old countertops: $100–$800.
- Backsplash installation: $900–$3,500 (tile options are cheaper).
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Edge treatments: $10–$40/linear ft based on style.
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DIY Costs:
- Marble tile for DIY projects: $7–$10/sq ft.
- Full slab installations are not recommended due to weight and fragility.
Popular Marble Types & Costs
- Calacatta: Luxurious, white background, gray veins ($180/sq ft).
- Carrara: Classic look, white with bluish-gray veins ($40/sq ft).
- Cultured Marble: Durable synthetic option ($65/sq ft).
- Danby: American-made, gray, gold, brown veins ($80/sq ft).
- Makrana: Budget-friendly, durable, imported from India ($12/sq ft).
- Pink Marble: Pale pink with deep rose veins ($25/sq ft).
- Statuario: Gold and gray design ($50/sq ft).
- Travertine: Black with white veins ($75/sq ft).
Marble Grades
- Grade A: High quality, subtle veining.
- Grade B: Minor flaws like pitting.
- Grade C: Visible chipping or cracks.
- Grade D: Significant imperfections, lower cost.
Maintenance & Repairs
Pros & Cons of Marble Countertops
Pros:
- Luxurious, timeless look .
- Durable and heat-resistant.
- Unique veining for a custom design.
- Cool surface for baking prep.
Cons:
- Porous: prone to stains and scratches.
- Requires regular maintenance.
- Expensive repairs for lower-grade marble.
Ways to Save on Costs
- Opt for Tiles: Tiles cost as little as $7/sq ft and are DIY-friendly.
- Choose Makrana Marble: Affordable and durable at $12/sq ft.
- DIY Demolition: Save $100–$800 by removing old countertops yourself.
Marble vs. Other Materials
- Marble vs. Granite: Similar costs, but marble is softer and has unique veining.
- Marble vs. Engineered Stone: Engineered options are more durable and scratch-resistant but lack marble's natural look.
Marble countertops are a high-end choice for kitchens and bathrooms, offering elegance and durability but requiring thoughtful maintenance and budget planning.
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