Typical pricing of solid surface countertops

Solid surface countertops are reasonably priced considering the benefits and advantages they have to offer. Some can be pricier than the others depending on the design, size, shape, custom features such as built-in sinks, complexity of dimensions and installation, and the edge treatments chosen. Generally, solid surface countertops cost three to four times the price of laminate countertops and around two times the cost of ceramic tiles. Their cost starts at $40 to $60 per square foot for solid surface countertops with simpler textures and patterns. Those with more complex designs and textures cost higher per square foot. Solid surface countertops also vary in price according to regional markets. Their price in the Southwest area is half of their price in the Northeast. Installation costs Depending on the area where you live, some manufacturers of solid surface countertops charge an installation fee that ranges $90 to $200 per square foot. Other professional installers charge $5,000 or more to fabricate and install a solid surface countertop. The installation cost can also depend on the dimensions of your kitchen, its exact location in your kitchen, and the special features you want to add to it. Major brands and pricing The benchmarks for pricing are set by the popular brands of solid surface countertops such as Corian by DuPont, Silestone, and Formica. Corian is probably the most well-known brand. Sometimes it is even mistakenly referred to as the generic material for solid surface countertops. DuPont is one of the pioneers of solid surface countertops, and its brand, Corian, has become the model for most of the competing manufacturers. It has been repeatedly copied ever since its patent on the very popular imitation stone surface has expired. Corian is smooth to the touch and looks very similar to real stone surface. It comes in different colors and designs. A 4 inches x 4 inches Corian solid surface countertop costs around $320 to $350. Silestone is one of the newer brands of solid surface countertops. It is made of natural crystal and quartz and is bonded with polyurethane resin to produce a solid and smooth surface.  It can be buffed to create a high polish. A 4 inches x 4 inches Silestone countertop costs around $240 to $300. Formica is an affordable brand that uses lamination for solid surfaces. It uses aluminum oxide to make the surface more resistant to scratches. Formica was introduced in the late 50s and was, for a time, the only one used for continuous coverage countertops. Its one major disadvantage is that it is susceptible to scratches and cuts due to its cheaper material. A can of food that falls out of a cabinet can easily dent the surface. It can also have more noticeable seams compared to other solid surface countertop brands. A Formica kitchen island countertop measuring 4 feet x 4 feet costs $180 to $200.