Here are 10 things to consider when getting granite deals.
Get a personal estimate at home to make sure the price is concrete and based on facts, not assumptions. Make sure that once the appraiser visits your home, the price provided is final and not subject to change.
Thickness – Not all granite countertops are the same thickness. 1-1/4″ granite is considered the standard thickness. Thinner granites are often used in bathroom vanities and laundry rooms. Make sure the thickness of your granite countertops is included in the offer .
slab visualization – One variable in the cost of completing granite countertops is the quality/pattern of the granite being used. Not all 1 1/4″ granite is created equal. There are parts of granite slabs that have unsightly patterns that you wouldn’t want to see on your kitchen island. At a good granite shop, some granites will never be used. Other granite shops granite uses every square inch, regardless of pattern.Your estimate should include the opportunity to view the slab you are purchasing and design your project on the slab.This allows you to see how the granite will flow BEFORE you manufacture it.
edge detail – Different edges take different amounts of time to make. Most companies will have 1-4 “standard” edge details. To get the most accurate offer, choose the detail of the advantage you want to have and set the price with that advantage. If you have a couple of different edge selections that you like, you may want to have an option price given for each of them.
granite sealer – Many companies make a simple sealer on your granite that will need to be reapplied after 1-2 years to keep your granite sealed and protected. Others have gone to newer sealants that last up to 15 years. It is best to ask for a 15 year sealer and, if not available, ask for a free sealing service for the life of the granite. The sealing process is quick and easy for a professional.
splash guard – Most granite installations look best with a 4-6″ backsplash where the countertops meet the wall and/or cabinets (known as a backsplash). If this is something you want, make sure that it is included in the offer Many companies do not include the backsplash in their offer and charge it when you say you want it.
cuts – Granite is not easy to cut, which is why many companies charge for necessary cutting on the granite. Examples of cutouts are faucets/sink/stove or any other necessary holes in your granite. It is best to know what cuts you will need and ask them to give you the corresponding price.
Delivery/Installation/Tax – WOW! This bid is 30% less than the others! No, it’s not – that offer does not include delivery of your granite countertop, installation, or sales tax. In most offers, all 3 must be included. A complete kitchen will require 2-3 people for half a day to install it correctly. That time costs money and is calculated in the total cost. If you’re buying a single vanity, you can pick it up and install it yourself, and in those cases, make sure the offer reflects that.
existing caps – Good, your new granite countertops are installed and sparkling clean. Now what are you going to do with the old ones? If you would like installers to remove your old countertops and haul them away, be sure to request this in your bid. This is a very common practice.
Warranty – Last but not least, you’ll want to check the quality of the warranty that comes with your new countertops. Good companies stand behind your granite, installation and sealing. Be sure to compare warranties. Properly sealed and installed granite is highly durable, and limited lifetime warranties are not uncommon.
Getting the right information about your granite countertop bid will make it easier for you to compare bids and should also give you a truer cost of what the job will actually cost. You should also make sure that your estimate (based on plans or measurements on the site) is a “locked in” price, so you know exactly what you’re getting at what price.
