Co-branding Airtasker OneflareCo-branding Airtasker Oneflare
Hero image

How much does a Benchtop cost?

$300 - $2,000 per m2

    How Much Does a Benchtop Cost?

    The kitchen benchtop overlay cost varies due to the wide range of materials that are available on the market and the amount of time it takes to install it. You can expect to pay an average of $950 per square metre for a popular material like stainless steel. Other materials like bamboo can be more affordable and come with a price tag of $300 per square metre.

     

    Benchtop Costs in Australia

    City Average Benchtop Costs Per Square Metre
    Melbourne $800 – $2,200
    Perth $550 – $1,600
    Darwin $700 – $2,500
    Hobart $650 – $2,000

    Factors Impacting the Cost of a Benchtop

    Material – The type of material used on the benchtop is one of the main factors that determine how much you pay. The quality, weight, and how the material is sourced influences its price tag.

    Size – The size of the benchtop is an additional factor that influences the cost. If you have a larger surface area to cover, you can expect to pay more because you’re obtaining additional material to install in the bathroom or kitchen.

    Shape – The shape of the material also affects its price tag. It requires a significant amount of work and skill to create a unique shape of the benchtop.

    Installation – The installation process varies, depending on the number of people used and the material that is handled. The cost depends on the length of time it takes to install the benchtop. The complexity of the process can also determine the cost. 

    The complexity of the design – Benchtops with a complex design is prone to cost more because more work has been put into creating the work of art by a skilled professional.

     

    A kitchen with an island bench and marble benchtops

    A marble benchtop matching the kitchen splashback / Source: Handy Kitchens

    Price Estimates for Different Benchtop Materials

    Stone – Engineered stone is more affordable than natural stone and is often extremely durable. Homeowners can expect to pay a stone benchtops price of $500 to $1,200 per square metre. The cost of installation also influences the stone benchtop price.

    Timber – This material has a variety of stains, colours, and sizes to accommodate various styles and settings. The timber benchtops price is $500 to $1,500 per square metre.

    Marble – The elegance and quality of marble is the reason for the higher price point. The natural beauty of the material adds an upscale touch to various types of settings. The marble benchtops price is an average price of $3,500 or $800 to $2,500 per square metre.

    Granite – Granite is a natural stone, which causes it to have a higher price tag compared to engineered stone. It’s highly durable, making it one of the most popular materials to use for benchtops. The granite benchtops price is $700 to $2,000 per square metre.

    Laminate – Laminate is a fraction of the cost of stone and has a high level of durability because it doesn’t chip or crack easily. The average laminate benchtops cost is $100 to $400 per square metre.

    Concrete – Concrete is favoured for its durability, natural design, and unique appearance that is more industrial. Polished concrete is available, which mimics granite or marble for an upscale appearance. It costs $1,000 to $1,800 per square metre.

    Steel – Steel is hygienic and versatile, with an average cost of $900 to $1,000 per square metre. It’s ideal to use in food prep areas because of how easy it is to keep clean.

    Quartz – Quartz is a more affordable benchtop material that mimics the beautiful design of natural stones like marble. The quartz benchtops price is an average of $600 to $750 per square metre. Quartz-based surfaces cost up to $1,300 per square metre.

    Corian – The average corian benchtop cost ranges from $1,000 to $1,200 per square metre. It is a solid surface material constructed from an acrylic resin. Many Australians favour the material for its durability and variety of colours and textures that are available.

    Porcelain – As a natural stone, porcelain adds a luxe touch to kitchens or bathrooms. The porcelain benchtop cost is $1,300 to $1,500 per square metre.

    Acrylic – Acrylic is hard-wearing and can be moulded into a variety of shapes to accommodate the room they’re placed in once they’re installed. Homeowners can expect to pay $1,000 to $1,200 per square metre.

    Solid Surface – Solid surface is non-porous, which prevents them from staining and allow them to hold up well to daily use. Although there are many types of solid surfaces available, solid surface benchtop prices cost $1,000 to $1,200 per square metre.

    Bamboo – Bamboo is considered to be an eco-friendly material due to how it’s sourced. For those looking for an affordable kitchen benchtops price, bamboo is an ideal option because it costs $300 to $400 per square metre.

     

    Summary of the Cost of Different Benchtops

    Type of Benchtop Average Cost Per Square Metre
    Stone $500 – $1,200
    Timber $500 – $1,500
    Marble $800 – $2,500
    Granite $700 – $2,000
    Laminate $100 – $400
    Concrete $1,000 – $1,800
    Steel $900 – $1,000
    Quartz $600 – $1,300
    Corian $1,000 – $1,200
    Porcelain $1,300 – $1,500
    Acrylic $1,000 – $1,200
    Solid Surface $1,000 – $1,200
    Bamboo $300 – $400

    Price Estimate for Benchtop Resurfacing

    What is the average cost of resurfacing a benchtop?

    The average kitchen benchtop resurfacing cost is $2,500 to $6,000, depending on the type of material used. The benchtop resurfacing cost can rise to $7,000 to $9,000 for larger projects.

    How much does a benchtop overlay cost?

    Benchtop overlay is a process that is a more affordable and simple option that doesn’t involve removing tiles. The cost of benchtop overlay is completely dependent on the material you choose to place on top of your existing benchtop.

     

    A kitchen with blue cabinets and white benchtops

    Contrasting benchtops and cabinets can make a statement / Source: Complete Maintenance & Property Repairs

     

    Price Estimate for Benchtop Replacement

    What is the average cost to replace a benchtop?

    The average cost to replace kitchen benchtop cost is between $1,000 and $1,800, which often includes custom fits and the installation of the material selected. The benchtop replacement cost is influenced by the material that is used and the size of the benchtop. The number of years of experience of the contractor and their reputation can also affect the price, making it necessary to obtain at least three quotes from established professionals in the industry.

    Price Estimate for Benchtop Installation

    The average benchtop installation cost is $700 and $2,000 per square metre. The type of contractor hired, the material, and the size of the benchtop influence the final cost.

    How to Hire a Benchtop Installer

    How to Create an Accurate Estimate

    • Determine the type of material used for the benchtop
    • Estimate the size of the benchtop
    • Select the contractor

    Licencing and Qualifications

    • Research the license of the contractor
    • Ask for references
    • Review their portfolio
    • Read online reviews
    • Research the contractor’s background

    How to Save Money Hiring a Benchtop Installer

    When hiring a benchtop installer to perform the project in your home or office, there are a few ways to reduce the cost of the service. You can consider haggling with the contractor after receiving multiple quotes. Choosing a smaller size of benchtop can also keep your costs low. Obtaining the services during the off-season can also reduce the amount of money that you pay.

     

    * The cost data is based on Oneflare and third-party sources

    Additional Considerations on Installing Benchtops

    Aircoat Australia

    Aircoat is a spray-on coating that creates a transparent air barrier. Reviews for Aircoat Australia are generally positive, with customers reporting improved energy efficiency and air quality in their buildings.

    Caesarstone Finish

    Caesarstone is a popular brand of engineered stone used for countertops, vanities, and other surfaces. Reviews of Caesarstone products are generally positive, with customers praising their durability, versatility, and low maintenance.

    Recommended Bench Top Height

    When installing bench tops in your kitchen, it’s important to consider their height. A general rule of thumb is to mount them at a height that aligns with your eye level when standing at the bench. This can help prevent strain on your neck and shoulders while using electrical appliances.

    Related Benchtop Cost Guide