Replacing your kitchen countertops is an exciting part of any remodel, but it can also be daunting when you start thinking about the cost. With so many options—granite, quartz, laminate, butcher block—it’s easy to get overwhelmed. You might wonder how much you'll actually be spending, especially when you factor in labor and installation.
At JSB Home Solutions, we’ve been helping homeowners transform their kitchens for 46 years, and we’ve seen it all when it comes to countertops. Our expertise lies not only in finding the right materials but in ensuring that the installation process is smooth, efficient, and cost-effective.
While we don’t install countertops ourselves, we coordinate countertop installation with some of the top suppliers and manufacturers of stone countertops in Columbus, OH. In this article, you will learn what you can expect to pay for labor to install your countertops, depending on your material choice, and how long the process will take. Remember, material costs are not included in this article but you can find the costs of the top kitchen countertop materials in another of our blog articles.
Table of Contents:
- What are the Labor Costs to Install Kitchen Countertops?
- How do these costs compare to costs in Central Ohio?
- Summary of Estimated Labor Costs
What are the Labor Costs to Install Kitchen Countertops?
When it comes to understanding the cost of installing kitchen countertops, one of the most accurate ways to calculate it is by focusing on the labor rate and the time it takes to complete the job. Unlike material costs, which are fixed, labor costs can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the installation, the size of your countertops, and the specific skills required for different materials.
By calculating costs based on labor rates and installation time, you get a clearer picture of what you’ll pay for a professional's time and expertise. This method also helps you compare costs across different countertop options, as each material has its own unique installation challenges that can affect the time—and ultimately the price—you’ll pay for the project.
Remember, these prices are for installation only. You will also need to include the cost of your countertop material to see the total cost of replacing kitchen countertops.
Labor Cost to Install Laminate Countertops
Average Installation Time: 2-4 hours- Hourly Labor Rate: $30-$85 per hour
Laminate is one of the more affordable options for both materials and labor. It’s lightweight, easy to cut, and doesn’t require the heavy lifting associated with stone countertops, keeping labor costs lower. For a standard 10x10 kitchen with a wall-mounted countertop and an island, the installation typically takes about 2 hours, costing between $60 and $170 in labor. However, if your kitchen is larger, has a multi-level island, or involves several separate countertop sections, expect the installation to take closer to 4 hours, with labor costs ranging from $120 to $340.
Labor Cost to Install Butcher Block Countertops
Average Installation Time: 3-6 hours- Hourly Labor Rate: $30-$85 per hour
Butcher block counters require careful sealing and sanding, and while not as heavy as stone, they need expert handling to ensure a seamless and durable finish. Labor costs here fall somewhere in the middle of the spectrum. In a typical 10x10 kitchen setup with a countertop against the wall and an island, the installation process generally takes around 3 hours, with labor costs falling between $90 and $255. If your kitchen is larger, has a two-tiered island, or multiple countertop segments, installation time could extend to 6 hours, raising labor costs to $180 - $510.
Labor Cost to Install Granite Countertops
Average Installation Time: 4-8 hours- Hourly Labor Rate: $30-$85 per hour
Granite is a heavy, natural stone, and installation requires special tools and expertise. Cutting, fitting, and securing these slabs demands precision, which is reflected in the higher labor costs. For a 10x10 kitchen with a countertop along the wall and an island, installation usually lasts about 4 hours, bringing labor charges to roughly $120 to $340. If your kitchen is more extensive, features a two-level island, or has multiple pieces, the installation may take up to 8 hours, costing between $240 and $680.
Labor Cost to Install Quartz Countertops
Average Installation Time: 5-9 hours- Hourly Labor Rate: $30-$85 per hour
Quartz installation is similar to granite, though it often costs a bit more because it’s an engineered product. The weight and precise cutting required mean that the labor costs can run high. A 10x10 kitchen with a standard countertop along the wall and an island typically requires about 5 hours for installation, which puts labor expenses between $150 and $425. Larger kitchens, or those with two-tier islands or several countertop pieces, may take closer to 9 hours, with labor costs rising to $270 to $765.
Labor Cost to Install Marble Countertops
Average Installation Time: 6-10 hours- Hourly Labor Rate: $30-$85 per hour
Marble is stunning but delicate, making the installation process more labor-intensive. It can easily crack if mishandled, which is why you’ll often see higher labor fees for marble installations. For most 10x10 kitchens with a countertop along the wall and an island, the installation process generally takes 6 hours, with labor fees ranging from $180 to $510. If you have a bigger kitchen, a two-level island, or more countertop pieces, the installation might take up to 10 hours, increasing labor costs to $300 to $380.
How do these costs compare to costs in Central Ohio?
The national average for labor costs in the home remodeling industry typically ranges from $20 to $150 per hour, depending on the type of work and level of expertise required. Labor costs in Columbus, Ohio, tend to be slightly lower than national averages, as discussed in this article at a $30 - $85 per hour rate. For general remodeling, such as kitchen renovations or bathroom upgrades, homeowners in Columbus can expect to pay labor rates that are more affordable compared to larger metropolitan areas like New York, Chicago, or San Francisco. This is due to a lower cost of living in the greater Columbus area, which affects local wages and business overheads. However, skilled trades like electrical work, plumbing, and custom cabinetry still demand competitive rates, especially as the demand for home remodeling services grows in the area.
Summary of Estimated Labor Costs
|
Laminate |
Butcher Block |
Granite |
Quartz |
Marble |
|
|
Average Installation Time |
2 - 4 hrs |
3 - 6 hrs |
4 - 8 hrs |
5 - 9 hrs |
6 - 10 hrs |
|
Hourly Labor Rate |
$30 - $85 |
$30 - $85 |
$30 - $85 |
$30 - $85 |
$30 - $85 |
|
Total Estimated Labor Costs |
$60 - $340 |
$90 - $510 |
$120 - $680 |
$150 - $765 |
$180 - $850 |
These costs are estimates and can vary depending on your location, the size of your kitchen, and the complexity of the installation. Labor costs can also rise if your countertop layout requires additional custom cutting or handling.
Well, How Much is the Material Cost for Kitchen Countertops?
Deciding to install new countertops is a big step, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming when you're armed with the right information. Understanding labor costs and installation times by material helps you make an informed decision, whether you're aiming for something budget-friendly like laminate or dreaming of the luxury that marble brings.
To fully prepare for a kitchen upgrade, learn about the total cost of replacing kitchen countertops, including material costs and installation costs. You can also start considering what features are most important in your new countertop. Do you want the most budget-friendly option? Are you more concerned about stain and scratch resistance? Maybe the designs, colors, and aesthetics are top of your list. Deciding what is most important will help you choose the best kitchen countertop material for your lifestyle.
At JSB Home Solutions, we’re here to help every step of the way. We’ve used our 46 years of remodeling experience to compile a list of questions that you should ask any remodeling company you are thinking about hiring. These will help you choose a reputable company that has your best interests in mind. When you are ready to start the conversation with a contractor, ask them the questions in the Remodeling Company Comparison Worksheet and keep track of their answers. You will be on your way to cooking dinner on beautiful new countertops in no time!
