What To Look For

Granite: 5 Things To Look For in a Quote 

There are few standards when it comes to granite pricing. Advertising offers vary dramatically from company to company. Some fabricators quote the price of stone only (often only a small part of the overall cost of a granite countertop), while others include the price of cutting and polishing, but not installation or removal of your old countertop. Differences don't end there. Some companies that sell granite countertops -- including the big box retailers like Home Depot and Lowes -- don't do any of the work themselves. They use subcontractors. That leaves some customers wondering who's really doing the work. Warranties vary as well. Will those smaller granite fabricators be in business when the time comes for you to exercise your warranty? 

Do they use subcontractors? 

Most fabricators have their own measurement, templating and installation personnel, but that's not always the case. As we mentioned above, most re-sellers like Lowes and the Home Depot don't. But they just represent the extreme end of the spectrum, where the company you're buying from doesn't do anything except pass your order on to a fabricator (after they mark-up the price, of course.) Even some bona fide fabricators, who actually cut and polish your countertop, may use independent laborers to actually install it. 

What's included in the price? 

This shouldn't be a big issue so long as you pay attention enough to make fair a price comparison. First, it should go without saying that a reputable fabricator should offer you a written contract that spells out what you're getting. But even during your shopping phase you should take care to note what's included in (or excluded from) each company's quote. For example, does the quote include removal of your existing countertop? What about the installation charge? Does the company offer name brand sinks and faucets? Who will do the plumbing hookup? Are all of the cut-outs (for sinks and stove tops) included in the price? Is the sealer included? Be sure that you are comparing the total price and the quality of their workmanship. 

Add-On Items 

Double check that the additional items you may have added on to some quotes, are calculated into the costs of all estimates you've received. Add-on items may include decorative finishes for your countertop such as a backsplash or special edging (bull-nose and ogee edge, etc.). 

Stain Protection 

Periodic sealing is recommended. 

Warranty 

Make sure whoever you decide to use stands behind their work with a written warranty on the countertop and the installation. Find out what's covered and what's not. While granite is difficult to damage, making sure the company will stand behind it in the unlikely event something does go wrong.