Plastic Laminate Countertop Installation: Cost And Process Guide

Plastic laminate countertops are a popular choice for homeowners due to their sleek, modern appearance and low cost. They are made of several paper layers covered with a protective melamine resin top layer. The average cost of installing a laminate countertop is $600 to $3,200, with the price per square foot ranging from $20 to $80. The price varies depending on factors such as the type of laminate, the size and shape of the installation area, and whether additional labour is required for old countertop removal.

Laminate countertops cost $600 to $3,200, including materials and installation

Laminate countertops are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their affordability and versatility. The cost of installing a laminate countertop ranges from $600 to $3,200, including materials and labour. This price can vary depending on several factors, such as the size, type, and quality of the laminate, as well as the complexity of the installation process.

The average cost of laminate countertops is $35 per square foot, with certain finishes and grades costing more. For example, high-durability laminate countertops, which are more resistant to wear and tear, can range from $20 to $55 per square foot. On the other hand, standard laminate countertops are a more economical option, ranging from $10 to $15 per square foot. If you're looking for additional features, such as an antimicrobial finish or a scuff-free surface, you can expect to pay up to $30 per square foot.

It's important to consider the labour costs associated with installation, which typically range from $10 to $30 per square foot. The removal of old countertops can also impact the overall cost, with contractors charging $10 to $15 per square foot for this service. Additionally, if you're planning a kitchen or bathroom remodel, you may need a permit, which can cost between $200 and $1,500.

To ensure you're getting the best value for your money, it's recommended to obtain at least three estimates from licensed and experienced installers. Proper maintenance and care, such as daily cleaning and regular sealing, can also help extend the lifespan of your laminate countertops, which can last for 10 to 20 years on average.

Installation costs vary between $10 to $30 per square foot

Installation costs for plastic laminate countertops vary between $10 to $30 per square foot. The average cost of laminate countertops is $600 to $3,200, or $20 to $80 per square foot with installation. Material prices are $10 to $50 per square foot, while labor costs are $10 to $30 per square foot. The price of the materials depends on the type and quality. For instance, standard laminate countertops cost $10 to $15 per square foot, while antimicrobial finish laminate costs up to $30 per square foot, and scuff-free, high-durability finish laminate costs up to $50 per square foot.

The cost of installing a laminate countertop is influenced by several factors, including the size and type of laminate, as well as the cost of labor in your area. The average laminate countertop installation costs $1,244, but depending on these factors, most homeowners pay between $841 and $1,738.

Additionally, there are other costs to consider when installing a laminate countertop. For example, if you are removing an existing countertop, you may have to pay for its removal and disposal, which typically costs $10 to $15 per square foot. If you are installing a new backsplash or sink with your new countertop, this will also increase the total cost of the project.

To ensure that you are getting a fair price for your laminate countertop installation, it is recommended to get at least three estimates from different companies and to hire a licensed, bonded, and insured company that has been in business for at least 5 years.

Removal of old countertops can cost $10 to $15 per square foot

The removal of old countertops can cost $10 to $15 per square foot. This is a separate cost from the installation of new laminate countertops, which typically costs between $10 to $30 per square foot. The total cost of installing laminate countertops is usually between $600 and $3,200, with the price per square foot ranging from $20 to $80. The price varies depending on the type of laminate chosen, the size and shape of the installation area, and whether additional labour is required to remove the old countertops.

Some contractors include the cost of removing and disposing of old countertops in their installation project quotes, particularly if it is part of a full kitchen remodel. However, some contractors may charge for this service, so it is important to clarify whether this is included in the quote.

The cost of removing old countertops should be considered when budgeting for a new laminate countertop installation. This cost can be reduced by removing the old countertops yourself before the new ones are installed. It is worth noting that laminate countertops require proper installation and maintenance to ensure their longevity, which is estimated to be between 10 and 20 years.

High-durability laminate costs between $20 and $55 per square foot

High-durability laminate is a luxury option that costs between $20 and $55 per square foot. This type of laminate is made from sturdy materials such as granite or Formica. While high-durability laminate is a popular choice for kitchen countertops, it can be difficult to clean and keep looking new. The price of high-durability laminate varies depending on the complexity of the design and the edging options chosen.

The cost of installing a laminate countertop is influenced by several factors, including the size of the countertop, the type of laminate, and the labour costs in your area. On average, the cost of laminate countertops ranges from $20 to $70 per square foot, with the price of materials ranging from $10 to $50 per square foot and labour costs ranging from $10 to $30 per square foot. However, some sources state that the average cost of laminate countertops is around $35 per square foot.

It's worth noting that antimicrobial laminate, which is a premium option that inhibits the growth of bacteria and mould, can cost between $15 and $35 per square foot. Custom countertops will also incur additional costs, as they are more expensive than prefabricated counters. The removal of existing countertops may also be a factor in the overall cost, with some contractors charging $10 to $15 per square foot for this service.

When choosing a laminate countertop, it's important to consider the durability and longevity of the material. With proper installation and maintenance, laminate countertops can last for up to 20 to 30 years. Additionally, laminate countertops can be repaired or resurfaced if they become damaged. Overall, laminate countertops are a wallet-friendly option that offers a wide range of colours, designs, and finishes to choose from.

Additional costs include sales tax, testing for hazardous materials, and general contractor fees

When installing a plastic laminate countertop, there are several additional costs to consider beyond the initial installation price. These include sales tax, testing for hazardous materials, and general contractor fees.

Sales tax on materials and supplies will vary depending on your location and the specific tax laws in your area. It is important to factor this into your overall budget to avoid unexpected costs.

Testing for hazardous materials is a crucial step when installing a plastic laminate countertop. Laminate countertops are known to contain formaldehyde, a carcinogen and asthmagen, which can be released into the surrounding air and space over time. To ensure the safety of your home and family, it is essential to test for these hazardous materials and choose laminate countertops with substrates made from No Added Formaldehyde (NAF) resins. Additionally, CDPH-certified laminate materials are preferred as they impose limits on specific volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including formaldehyde.

General contractor fees can also add to the overall cost of installing a plastic laminate countertop. If you hire a general contractor to supervise the project, expect to pay an additional 13% to 22% on top of the total installation cost. This fee covers the contractor's overhead and markup for organizing and supervising the installation process.

Other potential costs that may arise during the installation process include permit or inspection fees required by your local building department. These fees can vary depending on your location and the specific requirements of your project.

It is always a good idea to get multiple quotes from different contractors and to use a cost calculator to estimate the total expense based on your project's specific size, location, and options. By considering these additional costs, you can ensure a more accurate budget for your plastic laminate countertop installation project.

Frequently asked questions