Are you dreaming of your own eye-catching marble kitchen or bathroom benchtop?
You’ve got great taste.
But, as you dream about this stunning addition to your Perth home, there’s a practical side to consider – the cost.
Understanding how much you might need to shell out for a marble benchtop is crucial, especially if you’re trying to budget for a kitchen renovation.
In this article, we will explore several key aspects that will help you gauge the marble benchtop costs in Perth:
- Cost Factors: Including what drives the marble benchtop costs
- Cost-Saving Tips: Compare the best ways to keep expenses down.
- Choosing the Best Service Provider: Ensuring you get quality and value for your investment.
By the end of this read, you’ll have a clearer picture not only of the typical costs involved but also of how to navigate your choices to get the best possible outcome.
Let’s get right into it.
What Influences the Cost of Marble Benchtops?
When it comes to determining the cost of marble benchtops in Perth, several factors play pivotal roles.
Let’s break down each of these components to better understand how the price is formed.
Type of Marble
The variety of marble you select is one of the most significant factors affecting the cost. Marble comes in a wide range of types, each with unique veining, colourations, and origins.
With white background marble such as the Italian Bianco Carrara, the whiter the background, the dearer the slabs will be. Compromising on silvery-toned backgrounds can make the slabs easier to afford.
Exotic marbles like Calacatta or Statuario, also sourced from Italy, come with a heftier price tag compared to more commonly available types like Carrara. The rarity and the aesthetic qualities of the marble type directly impact its price.
There are also Dolomitic marbles which are marbles which are infused with magnesium. The magnesium makes them more durable than standard marbles, making them a great choice for kitchens.
These tend to sit within the higher price bracket, however many of them are still considerably cheaper than the exotic Calacattas.
In fact, one of our signature ranges of Dolomites is the Austral range of dolomites which come from a quarry right here in the WA Pilbara.
The quarry provides half a dozen colours which all provide extreme luxury at a price that is still affordable. Plus how amazing to use a stone from your very own backyard!
NEW: How to Polish Your Granite Benchtop
Thickness of the Slab
The industry standard thickness of marble slabs in Perth is 20mm. For a thicker, more luxurious look, an edge strip can be applied for extra cost to create a 40mm edge profile thickness.
The labour involved in glueing and polishing this extra layer of edge strip will increase the cost of the overall project.
Complexity of Installation
The installation costs can vary greatly depending on the complexity of the job.
Factors such as the shape of the benchtop, the size of the kitchen, and any special customisation like curves, joins, or cut-outs for sinks and appliances will affect the overall cost.
More intricate designs require more time and skill to install, which can increase labour costs significantly.
Finish and Edging Choices
The finish and the type of edges you choose for your benchtop contribute to the cost as well. Polished, honed, or brushed finishes each require different processes and care, influencing the final price.
Edge treatments such as square edge with pencil round, bullnose, or ogee edges require varying levels of craftsmanship, affecting the installation cost.
Each finish and edging style offers a different aesthetic and durability characteristic, which can suit different kitchen styles and usage patterns.
Supplier and Transportation Costs
Finally, whether you live in the metro area or in a country town will play a part in the cost. Stone masons will have to add extra transport costs for both the slab and for the installers to travel to install the kitchen top if you live in the country.
The logistics involved in transporting heavy stones safely can add to the cost, especially if special handling is required.
Trying to transfer a slab from the East Coast to Perth can often cost as much as the slab price itself and is often a logistics nightmare.
How to Save on Marble Benchtops Without Cutting Corners
Choose Local Suppliers
Opting for local marble suppliers can significantly reduce transportation costs, which are often overlooked when budgeting for benchtops.
Plus for the Perth market, trying to transport slabs from the Eastern states can not only be costly but can place a lot of stress on the slabs themselves on their trip over the Nullabor.
Opt for Common Marble Types
While exotic marbles like Calacatta or Statuario are stunning, they are also pricier. Consider choosing more common types of marble, such as Carrara, which can offer a similar aesthetic appeal at a fraction of the cost.
Also, go for a slightly darker background instead of insisting on a pure white which is more costly.
If you are really set on that Statuario look, then go for its cheaper little sister Statuarietto instead.
Minimise Waste with Accurate Measurements
Ensure that your contractor takes precise measurements of your kitchen space to minimise waste. Buying only as much marble as you actually need will avoid unnecessary expenses.
Do Regular Maintenance
Marble is porous and can be susceptible to staining and scratching if not properly maintained. Regular sealing and careful handling can prevent damage that might otherwise lead to costly repairs or replacements.
Investing in proper maintenance can extend the life of your benchtop and keep it looking new for years. Granite Warehouse has all of the MB Stonecare range of products designed to keep your marble looking great.
Their MB11 Touchup powder will even repolish acid etch marks caused by those little accidents, making owning marble more stress-free.
Consider Simpler Designs
Complex designs and elaborate edges are more labour-intensive and therefore more expensive. Simple, clean cuts and standard edges can be equally elegant and significantly more affordable.
A waterfall edge for instance can add considerable amounts to your job both in labour and extra material required.
By applying these tips, you can manage the costs in your Perth home while still achieving a luxurious and stylish outcome.
Tips For Selecting a Marble Benchtop Provider in Perth
Check Credentials and Experience
Ensure that the provider you choose has solid credentials and extensive experience specifically in marble benchtops. Look for a history of successful installations and ask for client references or case studies.
Experience often translates to fewer mistakes and a better understanding of how to handle this luxurious material.
Assess the Quality of Materials
Visit the provider’s warehouse to see the quality of marble firsthand. Never choose from a sample.
High-quality marble should be consistent in finish and thickness, and should not have any cracks or irregularities that could indicate poor handling or sourcing.
Review Customer Service and Support
Good customer service is a marker of a reliable provider. They should be willing to spend time discussing your options, offer clear advice, and respond to your queries promptly.
Check online reviews or get feedback from past customers about their service experience.
Look for After-Sales Support
The relationship with your supplier shouldn’t end at installation. Check if they offer maintenance services and after-sales support. This is crucial for long-term satisfaction and ensuring that your benchtop remains in top condition.
Take Action with Confidence: Contact Granite Warehouse Today
As you consider enhancing your kitchen with a beautiful marble benchtop, remember that the quality of both the material and the installation is paramount.
With Granite Warehouse, you’re choosing a partner known for its industry leadership, commitment to excellence, and extensive experience. Avoid costly errors and benefit from our legacy of satisfied customers.
We provide:
- Expert Advice: Our team of experts is ready to provide personalised advice that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.
- Quality Assurance: We stand behind our products and services, ensuring that you receive the best that Mother Nature can provide.
Contact Granite Warehouse today for more information or reach out on (08) 9209 2620 to learn more.