Laminate Countertop Installation Costs

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services

1. Average Costs

National Average: $35 per square foot.
Typical Range: $700–$2,000.
Low-End: $400 for smaller projects.
High-End: $4,000+ for large, custom designs or premium finishes.

2. Factors That Affect Cost

Type of Laminate

Standard Grade: $10–$18 per square foot.
Antimicrobial Finish: $15–$35 per square foot.
High-Durability Finish: $20–$55 per square foot.
Formica (premium brand): $40–$80 per square foot.

Custom vs. Prefabricated

Prefab Laminate: Generally more affordable.
Custom Laminate: Costs at least 25% more due to labor-intensive cutting and fitting.

Edging Options (Per Linear Foot)

| Style | Cost Range | Details |
|-------------------|----------------|------------------------------------------|
| Square | No extra cost | Standard edge. |
| No-Drip/Eased | $5–$9 | Helps prevent spills. |
| Full Bullnose | $9–$11 | Rounded top and bottom. |
| Ogee | $11–$25 | Decorative, elongated curve. |
| Dupont | $10–$20 | Elegant, sharp top with curved bottom. |

3. Installation & Labor Costs

Hourly Rates: $30–$40 per hour.
Flat Rates: $400–$800 for installation.
Labor for Standard Install: $700–$1,300 (including removal of old countertops).
Time to Install: 3–7 hours depending on complexity.

4. Additional Costs to Consider

| Feature | Cost Range |
|----------------------|----------------------|
| Backsplash | $600–$1,300 |
| Sink Installation| $350–$3,600 |
| Plumbing | $45–$200 per hour |
| Cutouts | $20–$100 per cutout |
| Permits | $50–$100 |

5. DIY Installation vs. Hiring a Pro

DIY Cost: ~$24 per square foot.
Professional Installation: $1,750–$2,000 for 30 square feet.
Savings Potential: ~$1,000 if done correctly.
Risks of DIY:
Difficult to fix errors (e.g., misaligned seams, water damage).
Poor installation can lead to long-term issues.

6. Ways to Save Money

Use Prefabricated Countertops: Prefab options are less costly and faster to install.
DIY Old Countertop Removal: Save $30–$40 per hour by handling removal yourself.
Simplify Edges: Stick to basic designs like square or eased edges.
Compare Brands: Explore alternatives to Formica, such as Wilsonart or Arborite.
Skip Premium Finishes: Opt for standard-grade laminates for lower costs.

7. Pros and Cons of Laminate Countertops

| Pros | Cons |
|-------------------------------|---------------------------------------|
| Affordable | Not heat-resistant. |
| Wide design options | Prone to scratches and chips. |
| DIY-friendly | Cannot be repaired once damaged. |
| Easy to clean | Limited resale value. |

Summary

Laminate countertops are a budget-friendly and versatile choice for homeowners looking to refresh their kitchen or bathroom. While they offer durability and ease of installation, professional help is often worth the investment to ensure a polished and long-lasting finish.