Countertop installation services: Best of 2025
Introduction: Upgrading Your Space with New Countertops
Countertop installation services transform outdated kitchens and bathrooms into modern, functional spaces that tenants love. Whether you’re managing a single unit or an entire apartment complex, professional installation ensures precision, durability, and increased property value.
Quick Guide to Countertop Installation Services:
- Average Cost: $2,147 to $3,105 per project
- Timeline: 1-3 days for most installations
- Top Materials: Granite, quartz, marble, laminate, solid surface
- Process: Consultation → Measurement → Fabrication → Installation
- What’s Included: Template creation, delivery, installation, caulking, cleanup
The national average for countertop installation is $2,147, but costs can vary significantly based on material choice, kitchen size, and project complexity. Granite and quartz offer the best durability, being “nearly impervious to heat, knife cuts, scratching, and staining,” while laminate provides an affordable option at $8-$27 per square foot.
Professional installation matters more than you might think. DIY mistakes are easy to spot and often require re-purchasing materials, making professional services a smart investment for property managers who need reliable results.
I’m Moe Shariff, owner of Apartment Services Group and multiple Houston-based service companies with over eight years of experience in property renovations. Through countless apartment upgrades, I’ve learned that quality countertop installation services can dramatically increase tenant satisfaction and property values.
Decoding the Cost and Timeline of Your Project
Planning a countertop upgrade? You’re probably wondering about two big things: the price tag and how long you’ll be without a functional kitchen. These are the questions I hear most from property managers, and for good reason – they directly impact your budget and tenant satisfaction.
What is the average cost of countertop installation?
Nationally, countertop installation services cost around $2,147, with the average project closer to $3,105. However, projects can range from $400 for basic laminate to over $8,500 for premium stone.
The biggest cost drivers are material choice and square footage. Granite and quartz are premium options, while laminate is more budget-friendly. Custom details like decorative edge profiles, multiple sink cutouts, and special finishes also increase the price due to added fabrication time and complexity.
For Houston property managers, I always recommend getting detailed quotes that break down material, labor, and additional charges. This transparency helps you budget accurately across multiple units. Check out our guide on Stunning Apartment Renovation Kitchen & Bath Upgrades for more insights on maximizing your renovation investment.
How long does countertop installation typically take?
Good news for busy property managers: most countertop installation services wrap up in 1-3 days. This quick turnaround minimizes tenant disruption and gets your units back on the market faster.
Project complexity affects timing more than size. A straightforward replacement moves quickly, while installations requiring cabinet modifications or extensive plumbing adjustments take longer. Fabrication time happens off-site before installation begins, so the actual disruption to your property is minimal.
Sealing requirements can extend the timeline slightly. Natural stone materials need proper sealing and curing time, which might add an extra day to the process.
When I quote projects, I always provide realistic timelines that account for potential complications. This helps you set proper expectations with tenants and coordinate other renovation work efficiently.
How can I save money on countertop installation?
Material selection offers the biggest savings; laminate countertops cost just $8-$27 per square foot, far less than natural stone. You can also reduce labor costs by removing old countertops yourself, provided you have a disposal plan.
Always compare detailed quotes from multiple contractors, looking at inclusions and warranties, not just the final price. The cheapest quote isn’t always the best value.
Scheduling installations during the off-season (late fall and winter) or bundling multiple units can also lead to discounts. Compromising on installation quality often costs more long-term, so focus savings on material choices and scheduling rather than workmanship.
Choosing Your Champion: A Guide to Countertop Materials
Think of selecting countertop materials like finding the perfect long-term tenant – you want someone reliable, durable, and a good fit for years to come. With so many options available, the choice can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry! We’re here to walk you through the most popular choices, helping you find the champion material for your apartment units.
What are the most durable countertop materials?
For rental properties, durability means resisting heat, scratches, and stains. Two materials consistently stand out as champions.
Granite is a natural stone renowned for its toughness. Once properly sealed, it’s highly resistant to heat and scratches. Each slab is unique, offering natural beauty. Its only trade-off is requiring annual sealing to maintain stain resistance, a small task for its long-term durability.
Quartz is an engineered stone that combines natural quartz with resins, creating an incredibly durable and non-porous surface. This means it never needs sealing and is highly resistant to stains and bacteria. Many quartz products are even certified as safe for food preparation. Its consistent patterns and colors are ideal for achieving a uniform look across multiple units.
Both granite and quartz are excellent choices for withstanding the demands of rental kitchens. For more insights on how durable materials fit into complete apartment makeovers, check out our Ultimate Guide to Apartment Renovation Interiors.
What types of countertop materials are available?
The countertop world offers something for every budget and style preference. Here’s how the most popular materials stack up for countertop installation services:
| Material | Cost Range (per sq ft) | Durability | Maintenance | Best Use Cases |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Granite | $$$ (High) | Excellent: Heat, scratch, stain resistant | Requires annual sealing; Easy to clean | High-traffic kitchens, luxury apartments, areas needing robust, natural aesthetics. |
| Quartz | $$$$ (Very High) | Excellent: Non-porous, highly stain & scratch resistant, hygienic, heat resistant | Low: No sealing required; Easy to clean with mild soap and water | Busy kitchens, modern designs, areas where hygiene is paramount, consistent aesthetic across multiple units. |
| Laminate | $ (Low) | Fair: Prone to chips, scratches, heat damage | Low: Easy to clean; Non-porous and stain-resistant | Budget-conscious renovations, rental units, utility areas, quick aesthetic updates. |
| Marble | $$$ (High) | Good: Softer than granite, porous; Prone to etching & scratching | High: Requires frequent sealing; Sensitive to acidic liquids; Needs gentle cleaning | High-end kitchens, bathrooms, statement pieces where aesthetic beauty is prioritized over extreme durability. Angi notes it’s a good option for busy kitchens despite being less durable than granite, perhaps for its beauty. |
| Solid Surface | $$ (Medium) | Good: Non-porous, seamless, stain resistant, repairable | Low: Easy to clean; Scratches can be buffed out | Modern kitchens, bathrooms, commercial spaces; Offers seamless integration with sinks, creating a sleek, continuous look. |
Laminate is the budget-friendly hero at $8-$27 per square foot, making it a cost-effective option for renovating multiple units. Modern laminates can convincingly mimic wood or stone, but they won’t withstand a hot pan like granite.
Marble brings elegance but requires careful maintenance. Solid Surface materials offer a middle ground, providing seamless looks that can be repaired if damaged.
Specialty options like Porcelain, Soapstone, and Dekton each bring unique benefits but often come with a premium price tag.
What factors influence the cost of countertop installation services?
Understanding cost drivers helps you budget effectively. Key factors include:
- Material Cost Per Square Foot: This is the biggest factor. The price difference between laminate ($8/sq ft) and premium quartz ($75/sq ft) is significant, especially across multiple units.
- Labor Costs: This covers the installer’s expertise, specialized tools, and time, ensuring a professional result without costly mistakes.
- Edge Profiles: Standard straight edges are most affordable. Decorative edges like bullnose or ogee require more fabrication time and increase the cost.
- Cutouts: Each cutout for a sink, cooktop, or outlet adds to the labor cost. Undermount sinks are typically more expensive to install than drop-in models.
- Backsplash Installation: A standard 4-inch backsplash may be included, but a full-height backsplash will add to material and labor costs.
- Old Countertop Removal: This is often an additional charge but ensures proper disposal and prevents damage to cabinetry.
By understanding these factors, you can make informed trade-offs, like pairing a premium material with a simple edge profile to manage your budget.
The Professional Countertop Installation Services Process
Think of countertop installation services like a well-orchestrated dance – every step flows seamlessly into the next. After eight years of managing apartment renovations in Houston, I’ve seen this process transform countless kitchens and bathrooms.
The beauty of working with professionals isn’t just the end result – it’s how smoothly everything unfolds. No surprises, just skilled craftsmen who know exactly what they’re doing.
What is the process for countertop installation?
The professional process ensures a smooth, predictable outcome:
- Initial Consultation: We discuss your vision, tenant needs, and budget to select the best material for your property.
- Templating: Our specialists take precise digital measurements of your space, mapping every angle and marking exact locations for sink and appliance cutouts.
- Fabrication: At our shop, skilled technicians use advanced equipment to cut your chosen material to the exact specifications, creating cutouts and shaping edges.
- Installation: Our team delivers the custom countertops and carefully installs them. We expertly join any seams to be nearly invisible and securely fasten the countertops to your cabinets.
- Finishing & Cleanup: We apply caulk for a watertight seal along walls and then perform a thorough cleanup. We conclude with a final walkthrough to ensure your complete satisfaction.
This meticulous approach is standard for all our Houston Renovating Services.
What should I do to prepare my space for installation?
Proper preparation ensures a smooth installation day. Here’s what you need to do:
- Clear countertops completely: Remove every appliance, dish, and decorative item.
- Empty top drawers and base cabinets: Installers need access underneath to secure the countertops, and this protects your belongings from dust.
- Create a clear path: Ensure a wide, unobstructed path from the entrance to the kitchen for safely moving heavy slabs.
- Disconnect plumbing: Arrange for a plumber to disconnect the sink and faucet beforehand, as this is not typically included in the installation service.
- Secure pets: For their safety and the safety of the crew, keep pets in a separate, secure area during installation.
- Ensure cabinets are level and secure: New countertops need a solid, level foundation to prevent fit and stability issues.
What is included in a typical countertop installation service?
When you invest in professional countertop installation services, you’re paying for a comprehensive process that includes:
- Template creation and fabrication: We take precise measurements and custom-cut your countertops in a professional shop.
- Delivery and installation: We transport the countertops safely, then position, secure, and expertly seam each piece.
- Caulking and cleanup: We seal all joints for a clean, watertight finish and thoroughly clean the work area.
- Standard backsplash: Most services include a 4-inch backsplash made from the same countertop material.
What might cost extra? Old countertop removal, plumbing work, appliance installation, custom edge profiles, and specialty cutouts are often additional charges. Always get a detailed quote that clearly outlines all included services and potential extra costs to avoid surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions About Countertop Installation
We’ve covered a lot of ground, but we know that making decisions about countertop installation services can still feel overwhelming. After years of helping Houston property managers steer these waters, we’ve noticed the same questions come up again and again. Let’s tackle them head-on.
What are the benefits of hiring a professional for countertop installation?
While DIY may seem tempting, professional installation prevents costly errors. The key benefits are:
- Precision: Professionals have the experience to measure and fit expensive materials perfectly, avoiding mistakes that could require re-purchasing slabs.
- Specialized Tools: Installers use the correct equipment for cutting, lifting, and securing heavy stone, ensuring a safe and proper installation.
- Quality Guarantee: Mistakes in countertop installation are highly visible. Professionals get it right the first time, and most reputable services include a labor warranty for peace of mind.
- Efficiency: A professional team can finish a job in 1-3 days, minimizing unit downtime. A DIY project can take weeks, costing you rental income.
Should I empty my cabinets before the installers arrive?
Yes, absolutely. Emptying top drawers and base cabinets is crucial. It protects your belongings from dust and debris that can be created during installation. More importantly, it gives the installers clear access to the underside of the countertops, which is necessary for securing them properly. This simple step makes the entire process smoother and safer.
Can the installers also install a new sink and faucet?
This is a key question to ask during your consultation. Most countertop installation services will create the sink cutout during fabrication and can physically place the sink (undermount, drop-in, etc.) into the counter.
However, the plumbing work—disconnecting the old sink and faucet and connecting the new ones—is typically a separate service that requires a licensed plumber. Some installers may offer faucet installation as an add-on, but you should always clarify. To ensure a smooth process, have your new sink and faucet on-site and confirm who is responsible for each part of the installation.
Conclusion: Finalizing Your Countertop Change
When you step back and look at the journey we’ve taken together through countertop installation services, it’s clear that this isn’t just about replacing a surface – it’s about changing your entire property investment. The right countertops can turn a tired apartment unit into a space that tenants genuinely love calling home.
Think about it: your tenants spend countless hours in their kitchens, preparing meals, entertaining friends, and creating memories. When they have beautiful, functional countertops that resist stains and scratches, they feel proud of their space. That pride translates into longer lease renewals, better property care, and ultimately, more stable income for you as a property manager.
The numbers speak for themselves. With an average investment of $2,147 to $3,105, you’re looking at a project that typically pays for itself through increased property value and tenant satisfaction. Whether you choose the durability of granite, the low-maintenance appeal of quartz, or the budget-friendly option of modern laminate, professional installation ensures your investment is protected.
We’ve seen how the right countertop installation services can completely change a property’s trajectory. Units that once struggled to attract quality tenants suddenly become the most sought-after in the complex. It’s amazing what a difference professional craftsmanship makes – from that first precise measurement to the final caulk line that seals everything perfectly.
At Apartment Services Group, we understand that every apartment unit represents more than just square footage – it represents someone’s home. That’s why our approach to multifamily renovations goes beyond simple installation. We consider how each choice affects both your bottom line and your tenants’ daily lives.
Located at 16420 Park Ten Place, Ste #590, Houston, TX 77084, we’ve built our reputation on delivering results that last. Our unparalleled expertise and dedication means you can trust us with your most important investments, knowing we’ll treat each project with the care it deserves.
The change doesn’t end when we clean up the work site and hand you the keys. It continues every time a prospective tenant walks into that kitchen and immediately envisions themselves cooking their first meal there. It grows stronger with each lease renewal from tenants who love their upgraded space too much to leave.
Ready to see what professional countertop installation services can do for your property portfolio? We’re here to make the process as smooth as possible, handling everything from material selection to final inspection. Get expert help with your apartment complex solutions and let’s start planning your next change today.
