When it comes to natural stone countertops, few materials can replicate the classical beauty and stunning sophistication of marble. But like many other natural stone countertop materials, there is a great deal of variance in the cost of marble. Why does the price for the same type of material differ so dramatically? There are many factors that go into the pricing equation when it comes to marble countertops in Cumming, GA.
Because marble is a natural material used in marble countertops design in Cumming, GA, many things can have an impact on the price, such as the type of marble used, the design flourishes that are added to it during fabrication and the location from which it was quarried. Understanding how such factors influence the pricing of marble countertops can help you estimate the cost of your renovations or guide your decisions regarding which types of marble you’d like to include. Keep reading to learn more about the factors that influence the cost of marble countertops.
Location of Quarry
For obvious reasons, marble that is quarried closer to your location will usually be less costly than marble that originated from far-flung locations. The reason is quite simple. Marble is heavy and bulky, which makes it costly to transport. The greater the distance it must be transported, the more it costs to ship it. Those additional shipping costs are handed down to the consumer, which will drive up the price of marble that originated far from your location.
Type of Marble
Some types of marble are prized for their quality, while rarity can drive up the cost of other types. For example, Carrara marble and Statuary marble are coveted for their fine quality and beauty. However, neither type is considered necessarily rare, and despite the demand, both are reasonably priced. Calacatta marble is harder to find and equally as striking in appearance. Because it’s not as readily available, its price is higher than Carrara marble on average. Nero Marquina marble is also rare, as it is predominantly black with white veining. It also commands a premium price as a result.
Edge Design
The quality of the natural resource itself represents only part of the equation when it comes to marble pricing. Another aspect of marble value is defined by the level of detail and craftsmanship that goes into its manufacture and installation. Marble countertops are milled with specialty edges that enhance their finished appearance. Those edge bevels can dramatically impact the price of the finished marble countertop since a craftsman must shape those edges, which takes time that results in an additional cost of the finished countertop slab. Also, the type of finish you select for your countertops can define the final price for the installed marble, as some finishes are more costly than others.
Thickness of the Slab
It goes without saying that the larger surface area that you need to cover with marble countertops, the higher the price of the marble will be. However, size isn’t just related to the surface area, as the thickness of your marble slab will also play a role in determining its price. While 3mm may be the norm, some homeowners prefer a thicker slab that is 5mm thick to provide a more substantial countertop surface and present the appearance of bulk and depth.
The thicker the marble slab you use, the more it will cost. If you’re considering the installation of marble countertops in your home, consider how these factors above may impact the cost of your renovation. By understanding how marble countertops are priced, you can find a way to get the countertops you want within the confines of your budget. To learn more about the factors that affect the price of marble countertops, contact Legacy Granite Countertops at (678) 867-0100.
