Budget countertop options can be explored by home owners that have a certain financial scope that they are looking to adhere to. Here are 4 budget countertop tips to know before purchasing.
Budget Countertop #1: Opting For More Affordable Materials
For purchasing a kitchen countertop within a budget, it will be all the difference that makes with affordable materials and you do not also necessarily need to compromise style. Laminate is one of the cheapest options available and is really versatile with finishes mimicking high-end materials in the way of granite and marble. Laminate is also durable, scratch-resistant and easy to clean, making it a practical choice for families.
Another inexpensive option would be butcher block countertops — they add warmth to the space with their rustic charm. Although they need to be constantly sealed off from water damage, butcher blocks are relatively inexpensive and scratches can be taken off simply by sanding them down for them to keep looking new for a long period of time. Ceramic tile countertops offer stone-like appearances without the outrageous price in a very stylish and customisable way. The tiles come in a huge variety of colour, shape and pattern which can add a personal touch to the kitchen even though regular grout maintenance is a necessary step.
Also, manufactured countertops offer more budget-friendly options when it comes to materials such as quartz and granite. With the prefabricated slabs, they already come in standard sizes, saving a lot of money during manufacturing and installation. If you are dealing with smaller spaces, suppliers can often provide remnant pieces at low costs for quality stone. Other cost-saving measures include the use of thinner slabs and choosing simple, straight edges without ornamentation.
These budget-friendly choices let you indulge in the look and durability of more premium materials without taking a toll on your finances. With affordable options to go with a material for countertops, one can stay within their budget and make a kitchen both functional and visually appealing.
Budget Countertop #2: Skipping Expensive Edge Styles
When seeking to save money with kitchen countertops, one should avoid fancy edges. This is because although fancy edges add class to the look, they use more material and extra work, adding up in cost. An edge that is usually straight or eased can be the cheapest option, giving a clean and modern look but no added cost.
The straight edge is also highly requested due to its simplicity in design which can fit into various kitchen conceptions — from modern to more rustic. This very basic edge is not only inexpensive but practical as well since the lack of any sharp curves and fine details minimises the chance of chipping or other forms of damage over time.
Another edge option is the bevel which yields a budget-saving advantage by adding a slight angle for a modest touch of sophistication without overdoing the detailing. For those wanting that custom look without huge expense, some fabricators offer an edge that’s a little softer in feel at lower cost. This takes some of the hardness off and is more economical. Additionally, the simpler the edge, the quicker the installation which can reduce labour costs.
It is also wise to ask countertop suppliers about what standard edge options are included in the price of the slab. Most of the time, the most simple edges are included without charge in the price which also saves you from unexpected expenses. And finally, simple edges are easier to maintain. There are fewer nooks and crannies that gather dirt, making them both budget and user-friendly. You can save on the basic costs of countertops, focusing just on basic, plain simple edge styles while creating an elegant and timeless kitchen design.
Budget Countertop #3: Choosing Thinner Slabs
Thinner slabs may be one to consider when buying kitchen countertops on a budget. These thinner slabs offer not just a very sleek, modern look, the cost is much less than that of their thicker brethren. The reduction in thickness can save money not only on the material itself but also on transportation for the lighter slabs which are easier to handle and install.
Thinner slabs can be utilised very effectively in an array of materials including granite, quartz and even solid surface options — allowing for high-quality finishes a home owner wants without the associated price tag. Also, thinner slabs tend to look minimalist which fits modern kitchen ideas and gives a clean, elegant look for any style. By going for a thinner profile, the home owner gets to use the rest of the funds elsewhere like in cabinetry or appliances, beefing up the entire remodel of a kitchen without sacrificing some style.
Besides, most suppliers can give a more affordable price since this work involves thinner slabs. It is easy to get a deal which can fit within your means. To save costs even further, you may consider thicker countertops with less costly materials in areas of low traffic and use — laminate or tile for lower-traffic spots in the kitchen and reserving expensive stone for visibly-trafficked areas like islands or the main working countertop.
A balanced approach will give you the high-end look you need without burning a hole in your wallet. In the end, choosing thinner slabs allows for stylish yet cost-effective kitchen design solutions that will allow you to enjoy a really beautiful and functional space while keeping your budget in mind.
Budget Countertop #4: Avoid Adding On Unnecessary Elements
One of the prudent ways to stick to your budget while purchasing kitchen countertops is to avoid add-ons which can raise the price quite high. Indeed, most countertop vendors provide options for add-ons such as a drainboard, backsplash or special edge profiles that, while beneficial either functionally or cosmetically, greatly raise the overall cost. For example, a built-in drainboard can be convenient but always involves more cutting which increases the cost of the labor and usually results in wasted materials.
In any case, adhering to a basic countertop add-ons is an even more reasonably priced option that still looks great. Besides this, many owners are oblivious to how many add-ons add up — a small feature here and there can really sum up. This is because trying to keep the design clean and basic allows the beauty of the chosen material to shine without the clutter of unnecessary frills. Additionally, most countertop styles which run the gamut from laminate to tile can be quite striking in their simplicity and offer ample functionality for a very basic cost modification. Do not be swayed by optional features when budgeting for countertops. Instead, choose quality material and finishes that will last and perform well.
Ultimately, your goal should be a kitchen design that works in harmony with being visually appealing without necessarily stretching your budget. Therefore, by judiciously weighing up your needs and wants regarding the features, you will know well how you can make better use of your resources to get a beautiful kitchen within your budget without compromising on quality.
