Unlock the Foolproof Guide to Buying Granite Countertops [2025]
The granite countertop is one of the most widely used kitchen fixtures in the Philippines and around the world.
Delivering both form and function, this beautiful natural stone makes an excellent kitchen workspace for anyone who enjoys cooking or baking.
Thus, even though there are many other countertop materials in the market today, granite remains a popular choice for many homeowners, architects, and interior designers.
But the question is:
What Makes Granite an Ideal Countertop Material?
Well, to start, we must first understand what granite is.
If you’re not a fan of earth science, you might want to skip this part by clicking here.
But, if you’re curious to know, let’s jump right in.
In geology, granites are light-colored igneous rocks with varying grains visible to the naked eye.
Composed mainly of feldspar and quartz (no, not that quartz), most granites generally appear gray, white, pink, or black, depending on their mineral composition.
For example, the material “Salt and Pepper” (or G603), a popular granite from China, is a black-and-white speckled stone formed by the abundance of quartz and other minerals.
On the other hand, if the granite is rich in potassium feldspar, it becomes salmon pink in color.
Ultimately, the amalgamation of the various minerals that form granite also makes up its unique appearance.
Curious to know how much will your counter cost?
Apart from their natural beauty, granite countertops are also extremely tough.
In fact, granite sits between the 6th and 7th tier on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness.
Looking at our chart, it’s not surprising why many homeowners choose granite for their kitchens.
It’s tough; we use diamond tools to cut and polish the slabs.
In addition, if you try slicing directly on your granite countertop, it will only dull your knife blades.
After all, granite was formed by the extreme heat and pressure deep within the Earth millions of years ago.
It survived the dinosaurs and will, most likely, outlast your entire house, too.
With proper care and maintenance, your granite countertop will guarantee you a lifetime of service in the kitchen.
| Mohs hardnesss | Mineral | Common object(s) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Talc | Baby Powder |
| 2 | Gypsum | Fingernail |
| 3 | Calcite | Concrete, Limestone |
| 4 | Fluorite | Marble |
| 5 | Apatite | Glass Window |
| 6 | Orthoclase feldspar | Steel Blade knife |
| 7 | Quartz | Granite, Sand |
| 8 | Topaz | Topaz |
| 9 | Corundum | Ruby, Sapphire |
| 10 | Diamond | Diamond |
Another reason why granite is widely used in the construction industry is its abundance.
There are a lot of granite deposits in the continental crust. And the majority of the commercial supplies come from China, India, and Brazil.
If you’re curious about how they appear as naturally occurring rocks, just look for “Yosemite” or “Mount Rushmore” on Google. You’ll be amazed at how massive they are.
Like any other goods sold in the market, the prices of stones are affected by supply and demand worldwide.
Fortunately, granite prices have remained stable for decades now, thanks to the abundant supply we have in our quarries.
Moreover, considering its timeless appeal and unyielding strength, a granite countertop will pay for itself in the long run. Here’s how:
- First, its required minimal upkeep saves you significant time and resources. Granite countertops are easy to clean and care for;
- Second, you won’t have to replace your granite countertop every ten years, unlike ceramic tiles or HPL. It’s a one-time investment that provides a lifelong service to your home;
- Lastly, it increases your home’s value should you decide to sell your house in the future. A granite countertop in your home can boost its value by up to twenty-five percent (25%).
Customers pay a price, but they remember the value
What is "Granite?"
Across the stone industry, however, granite is defined differently.
For most stone traders, like us, granite is any rock with visible grains that is harder than marble. Hence, gabbro, basalt, gneiss, and other similar stones are sold as “granite” as well.
For example, the material “Black Galaxy” is actually gabbro, not a true granite.
For geologists, a rock must be at least twenty percent (20%) quartz in composition to be considered granite.
Nevertheless, for the sake of simplicity, we’ll be using the commercial description of granite as it is the more accepted definition by most consumers. Alright?
Great!
Now that we are on the same page, you might as well ask:
Like any other natural stone, granite has traces of radioactive elements. But don’t worry, they’re way below the harmful levels.
As a matter of fact, “it is extremely unlikely that radiation from granite countertops would increase annual radiation doses above normal, natural background levels.
Radon originating from the soil beneath homes is a more common problem and a far larger public health risk than radon from granite building materials.”[1]
Hence, you need not worry about being a few inches away from the counter while doing the dishes.
Preparing food directly on your granite countertop won’t turn you into the Hulk either.
Numerous studies have shown no real cause for concern about the radiation levels in various granite samples. Rest assured that your granite countertop is safe to use inside your kitchen.
Alright. Now that we’ve covered all the science stuff, the more important question is:
How Much Does a Granite Slab Cost in the Philippines?
Here in the Philippines, granite ranges between Php 2,500 to Php 25,000 per slab. The cost, however, varies depending on the following factors:
All things being equal, the price of a stone increases when the supply decreases (making it rarer) or when the demand surges (making it more coveted).
Conversely, the price decreases when a granite color becomes widely available (making it common) or less popular (making it less desired).
For example, a diamond fetches a higher value than gravel because it’s rare and hard to find.
Similarly, if a granite color is sold exclusively by one source, then they can put a steep price tag on it if they want to.
In contrast, granites that are common and abundant, such as the “Salt and Pepper” (G603) and “Gray Honda” (G654), will obviously be cheaper.
Additionally, production issues also affect the cost of granites worldwide.
Over the years, some quarries in China have been closed down by the government for environmental reasons. As a result, the prices for these stones continue to soar exponentially as the remaining supply dwindles.
Not every stone color, however, can be quarried from a single country. Hence, some granite colors come from China or India, while others come from the other side of the globe.
If, for example, you live in Cebu and are eyeing a “Blue Pearl” granite from Norway, then expect to pay more than a “Salt and Pepper” slab from China. Here’s why:
First, the cost of transporting the slab from the quarry to your kitchen plays a significant role in pricing. Obviously, the shipping cost will be more expensive if you are farther away from its origin. As transit time increases, so does the price of goods, too.
Second, the cost of labor varies between countries.
For any business, higher wages mean greater expenses, which, in turn, are passed on to buyers in the form of higher prices. The stones processed in China will undoubtedly be more affordable than those from Norway, considering the wage difference.
Lastly, other factors, like tariffs and free trade agreements, also affect the prices of granite counters. Duties and taxes, or the lack thereof, can swing the cost of imported products.
The ASEAN-India Free Trade Area (AIFTA), for example, reduces the duties for granites from ten percent (10%) to six percent (6%), while the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area (ACFTA), on the other hand, cuts it to zero.
During production, granite blocks are cut into different sizes using various machines. The dimension of the granite block plus the machine type used determines the final size of the slabs produced.
Generally, larger slabs allow us to install granite countertops and other stone applications with minimal seams. They also ensure that the veins and patterns flow uniformly and continuously across the entire surface.
One large granite slab creates a countertop with more consistent color and appearance, unlike two smaller pieces connected together.
However, not all slabs may be readily available in the size you need.
There’s an excellent chance that you might have to buy another piece of the same material if the slab comes short of your requirements.
If you are interested in a particular granite color for your kitchen, it’s best to check out first if the sizes are available with your local stone supplier. Should you wish to see our selection of granites, feel free to visit the Stone Depot branch nearest to you.
Bigger granites, however, are more expensive than smaller cuts.
The “Emerald Pearl,” for example, costs Php 5,500 per sqm. for a 0.60 m. x 2.40 m. size; while a 1.40 m. x 2.50 m. slab fetches Php 9,000 per sqm.
Large format slabs are costlier as they are harder to produce and are riskier to haul and transport. If you are on a limited budget, then you might want to consider using other granite formats such as:
a. Typical size(s): 0.60 m. x 0.60 m., etc.
b. Cost: Inexpensive
c. Recommended applications: Floor tile, Pool coping, Wall cladding, etc.
Cutter Slabs
a. Typical size(s): 0.60 m. x 2.40 m. +/-
b. Cost: Moderate
c. Recommended applications: Kitchen countertop, Vanity top, Table top, etc.
Gangsaw Slabs
a. Typical size(s): 1.50 m. +/- x 2.50 m. +/-
b. Cost: Expensive
c. Recommended applications: Kitchen countertop, Island, Table top, etc.
Granites don’t come from the earth in slab forms.
They are first extracted as large blocks at quarry sites and cut into many slices—like a loaf of white bread.
In some cases, to maximize profit, some factories produce thinner cuts (12 mm. to 15 mm.) to make more out of a single block.
Here in the Philippines, the average thickness of most granites is 18 mm to 20 mm. Nevertheless, they are also available in 12 mm. to 30 mm., depending on your supplier.
At Stone Depot, for example, our slabs are available only in standard thickness (18 mm. to 20 mm.) for all our granite, marble, and quartz selections.
Unlike other suppliers, we do not offer 12 mm. to 15 mm. thick slabs that may compromise the durability of your stone application, especially your kitchen countertop.
Thicker slabs provide greater structural strength. As such, it’s best to use an 18 mm. to 30 mm. thick granite for your kitchen counter.
On the other hand, thinner slabs are cheaper but are more fragile. They require additional support, especially for your overhang. Ultimately, you may end up costing more in the long run because of these issues.
Remember: you always get what you pay for.
If you buy cheaply, you pay dearly.
Not all granites are created equal; some colors are rarer and pricier than others, similar to precious stones.
Blue, for example, is so rare in nature that many of the world’s most prized granites are in this shade.
The “Blue Bahia,” for instance, starts at around Php 70,000 per sqm.; while the much rarer “Van Gogh” costs twice, or even thrice, higher. These two blue stones are incredibly rare and found only in Brazil.
In contrast, a typical “Salt and Pepper” from China only costs Php 1,800 per sqm.—now that’s a whopping 189.97% difference versus the “Blue Bahia.”
Honestly, there is no international standard for grading granites. The benchmark we use is solely based on suppliers’ standards.
Generally, these grades are determined by the stones’ natural characteristics, such as veining, pitting, and markings.
As such, granites with a more consistent shade, pattern, and appearance can fetch a higher asking price than those that don’t.
Furthermore, the quality by which the slabs are cut and polished is equally important.
Thinner slabs (15 mm. or less) are inferior to standard ones (18 mm. to 30 mm.), as they are more susceptible to breakage.
As for luster, granite slabs processed using line polishing machines are deemed better than those done manually. These machines provide a uniform and better shine that no human hand can easily achieve.
Conclusion
Now that we’ve covered the most important points before buying a granite countertop, the last question is: where is the best place to buy granite in the Philippines?
If you live in Luzon, particularly in Metro Manila, we highly recommend going to Balintawak in Quezon City, specifically to Saint Mark Construction Supply. They have a wide range of not only granites but as well as marble and engineered quartz countertops at very affordable prices.
However, if you’re in the Visayas or Mindanao region, Stone Depot is the place to go. With branches in Cebu, Davao, Cagayan de Oro, and Iloilo City, you don’t have to worry about shipping these heavy and oversized slabs from Manila.
All our slab yards are well-supplied with various natural and engineered stones that you need for your project. What’s more, we offer the most competitively priced countertop materials in the region, so you don’t have to look around anywhere else.
So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Stone Depot branch today!
Get Your Quote
Visit our slab yard and get your free quote while you wait. Or better yet, request it with ease using our online form by clicking here.
Inspect Your Slab
Check out our broad selection of granite, marble, and quartz slabs and secure the ones that you like best for your kitchen counter.
Pay Your Order
You may settle in cash, cheque, credit card, debit card, bank deposit, online bank transfer, or Paypal—whichever is the most convenient for you.
Expect Our Visit
We'll inspect and get the actual measurements on-site. Then, we'll fabricate the slabs at our shop to minimize the dust and noise in your area.
Get Your Counter
Your countertop will be delivered and installed on schedule. This usually takes around two to three days, depending on the scope of work.
References
1. Environmental Protection Agency. (2021, December 8). Granite Countertops and Radiation. EPA. Retrieved March 16, 2022, from https://www.epa.gov/radiation/granite-countertops-and-radiation
7 Shocking Factors Inflating Granite Countertop Cost!
Granite Countertop Cost
When budgeting for your kitchen countertop, consider its size and the specific features you want, as these factors directly influence the cost.
Granite countertops cost around Php 5,000 to Php 50,000 or more in the Philippines, depending on the materials and design. If you’re considering marble or engineered quartz, expect to pay more.
To ensure you have a clear understanding of the costs from your local supplier, consider the following factors:
1. Supply and Demand
Supply and demand are crucial in determining global stone prices, including granite. This market dynamic significantly affects the cost of your countertop.
Because of their abundance, common and readily available granite varieties, like the “Salt and Pepper” or “Pink Porrino,” will not have a high price point.
However, when one company sells a stone exclusively, it can command a hefty price. After all, rarity creates value.
For example, the “Blue Bahia” starts at Php 70,000 per sqm as it is a scarce stone found only in Brazil.
Whatever you're thinking, think bigger.
2. Origin (Quarry Location) of the Material
The cost of granite countertops is influenced by the origin of the material, including transportation and labor expenses from the quarry location.
Labor cost also affects the price of every granite slab. Therefore, considering the difference in wages, one can expect that the stone processed in China will be cheaper than those produced in Italy or Brazil.
3. Slab Size
Using larger slabs allows for the installation of countertops with fewer seams but also results in more waste.
As such, a gangsaw slab will be more uniform in color and appearance than two or more cutter slabs joined together.
However, not all slabs are available in the size you need. Sometimes, you must buy another piece if the dimensions won’t suffice.
Moreover, larger granite slabs are harder to work with during countertop installation. All these factors affect the cost of granite countertops. If you are on a tight budget, consider using granite tiles instead. Granite tiles are cheaper than a whole slab. However, the disadvantage of using smaller pieces is the many seams on your countertop once installed.
If you’re wondering whether the granite color you like is available in a specific size, feel free to message us here.
4. Thickness
Workers extract large granite blocks in quarries and then cut them into slabs, like slicing a loaf of bread; sometimes, thinner sections are produced to maximize the yield.
These slabs average 18 mm in thickness, but depending on your supplier’s inventory, they are also available in 15 mm to 30 mm.
However, note that the thicker the slab, the higher the granite countertop cost is.
Most granite slabs sold in the Philippines are 18 mm to 20 mm thick. However, we do not recommend using thinner pieces, as they may compromise the strength of your kitchen countertop.
5. Grade
Understanding the different granite grades can help you make the best decision for your needs and budget. Here’s what you should know about each grade:
Commercial Grade
a. Has visible imperfections like veins, pits, and color variations;
b. Ideal for cost-effective projects, extensive developments, or rental properties prioritizing affordability;
c. Cost: ₱
Standard Grade
a.Has more consistent colors and patterns with fewer imperfections, resulting in a refined look;
b. Perfect for residential kitchens and bathrooms, offering a balance of quality and affordability;
c. Cost: ₱ ₱
Premium Grade
a.Selected from the finest parts of the quarry, it features vibrant colors and minimal imperfections.;
b. Best for luxury homes, commercial spaces, or any project requiring top-tier aesthetics and durability;
c. Cost: ₱ ₱ ₱
When choosing granite countertops, it’s essential to consider your budget and expectations. If you have concerns about cost, commercial-grade granite may be a suitable option. For a good balance of quality and price, consider opting for standard-grade granite. If you’re looking for the highest quality and the most beautiful finish, get the premium grade.
6. Sealing
Not all granite colors require sealing.
Granites like “Black Galaxy,” “Absolute Black,” and “Ubatuba” are so dense that even stone sealers won’t penetrate their surface. Sealing them dulls the stones’ shine. These are typically black granites or those with a darker shade.
However, regular sealing is necessary for other colors, especially in lighter shades.
Your granite installer will seal your countertop if needed. This adds to the cost of your project.
Moreover, depending on your usage, your stone countertop needs to be sealed every year or two. Hence, it demands extra care and maintenance to keep it looking new for years.
If you are uncomfortable buying a stone sealer once every two years or sealing your countertop annually, pick a granite color that does not need sealing or consider engineered quartz instead.
7. The Complexity of the Installation
The complexity of your countertop’s design can significantly impact your project’s overall cost.
For instance, because granite is heavy and hard, skilled professionals are required to pull off the job. Various factors contribute to complexity, including precision cutting, edge profiles, seam placement, support, leveling, transportation, handling, customizations, and cutouts.
Remember: your local supplier will charge you accordingly, as even the smallest detail can contribute to the final cost of your counter.
These include:
a. Edge Profile
Choosing the right edge profile for your granite countertop is not just a matter of aesthetics; it’s also a significant factor in determining the final cost of your project. The edge profile is the contour or design that defines the perimeter of your countertop, and it can range from simple and straight to complex and ornate.
Basic Countertop Edge Profiles
Basic edge profiles are priced at Php 500 per linear meter. These include:
- Eased: offers a slight rounding to soften the countertop’s edges;
- Chamfer: features a symmetrical sloping edge, adding a subtle detail;
- Bevel: characterized by its angled edge cut, giving a contemporary look;
- Pencil Round: has a rounded edge that is simple yet elegant;
- Half Bullnose: showcases a gently rounded top edge, blending sleekness with functionality;
- Bullnose: provides a fully rounded edge and is famous for its smooth and safe finish.
These options are cost-effective without compromising style, making them ideal for homeowners looking to balance budget and beauty. They require less labor and are easier to fabricate, hence their more affordable pricing.
Premium Countertop Edge Profiles
For those desiring a touch of luxury and uniqueness, premium edge profiles are available at Php 1,000 per linear meter. These include:
- Dupont: known for its sophisticated look, featuring a sharp, straight drop that transitions into a subtle curve;
- Miter: features a seamless edge where the granite is cut at a precise angle (usually 45 degrees) to give the illusion of a thicker slab. This sophisticated edge treatment is perfect for creating a modern, clean look with the added illusion of thickness without the actual weight and bulk of a thicker slab.
- Laminated Edge Profiles: these involve creating a thicker edge appearance by bonding two layers of granite together, offering enhanced visual weight and grandeur.
Premium profiles demand more precise craftsmanship and labor, justifying their higher price point. They cater to bespoke kitchen designs where every detail is curated for a distinctive look.
b. Backsplash
A backsplash protects your walls from spills and splatters and enhances your kitchen’s overall aesthetic. It seamlessly integrates style with functionality, completing the look of your space.
Below, you’ll find a comparative analysis highlighting the distinctions between choosing no backsplash, a standard backsplash, and a full-height backsplash for your countertop:
| Feature | No Backsplash | Standard Backsplash | Full-height Backsplash |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material Usage | None | Minimal (typically extends 4 inches high) | Maximum (extends to the bottom of your upper cabinets) |
| Cost | Lowest | Moderate | Highest |
| Installation Complexity | Not Applicable | Simple | More Complex |
| Aesthetic Impact | Minimal | Enhances Countertop Appearance | Dramatic, Unified Look |
| Protection | None | Basic Wall Protection | Full Wall Protection |
c. Cutouts
Integrating cutouts for sinks, cooktops, electrical outlets, garbage disposal units, and other essentials into your granite countertop not only enhances the functionality and sophistication of your kitchen but also adds a layer of complexity to the design and installation process.
But how do they affect a countertop’s cost?
Precision Work
Creating cutouts requires precise measurements and skilled cutting techniques to accommodate each specific fixture or appliance. This precision work demands time and expertise, thereby increasing labor costs.
Specialized Tools
Specialized tools are essential for creating smooth, precise cuts for the various cutouts your granite countertop design requires. Additionally, the wear and tear these tools undergo during the process further contributes to the overall costs.
Wastage
Larger cutouts, like those for sinks or cooktops, inevitably lead to material waste, diminishing the usable portion of the granite slab. This waste is considered in the project's pricing, impacting the overall cost.
Risk of Damage
The process of creating cutouts carries a heightened risk of cracking or damaging the granite. While professionals meticulously mitigate this risk, the possibility of material loss can influence the final pricing.
Conclusion
When budgeting for a granite countertop, it’s essential to consider several factors that can significantly affect its final cost. The price of a granite slab is determined by its origin, rarity, grade, size, thickness, and finish. Additionally, the complexity of the installation, including the edge profile and seam placement, contributes to the overall expense.
Therefore, it is crucial to hire experienced professionals to install your granite countertops. Professional installers have the necessary skills, tools, and experience to handle the material correctly, ensuring that your countertops are beautiful, durable, and long-lasting.
- Laguna
- Cebu
- Davao
- Cagayan de Oro
- Iloilo
We provide a thrilling array of high-quality granite options sourced from various quarries worldwide. So whether you’re looking for something budget-friendly or exquisite and unique, we have the perfect stone that matches your style and needs.
Our knowledgeable Team is ready to help you find the suitable material for your project, provide a detailed quote, and handle the installation to ensure a flawless finish that fits your budget and taste.
Is Granite an Expensive Countertop Material?
While some granite types are more affordable, especially those that are more common, others can be pretty expensive due to their rarity or origin.
The overall cost of a granite countertop also depends on factors like its grade, size, and thickness.
Although granite may have a higher initial cost than other countertop materials like laminate or ceramic tiles, it is highly durable, heat-resistant, and long-lasting, making it a worthwhile investment.
How Much does Granite Countertop Installation Cost?
Here’s a quick breakdown of the typical costs for installing a granite countertop:
- Fabrication (Shaping and Polishing of Edges) - Php 500 per linear meter
- Installation - Php 500 per linear meter
- Cutouts
- Drop-in/Vessel Sink, Cooktop - Php 850 per set
- Undermount Sink - Php 1,200 per set
- Wall-mounted Outlet - Php 500 per set
- Sealing - Php 400 per sqm
- Mobilization - depends on project location
For a precise quote tailored to your project, get your free quote here.
Which is cheaper: Granite or Quartz?
Granite is generally more affordable than quartz.
In the Philippines, common granite varieties typically start at around Php 1,800 per square meter, while quartz prices usually start at about Php 5,200 per square meter.
The cost difference is due to granite's natural availability and quartz's more complex manufacturing process.
Miguel Aquino
Miguel Aquino is the General Manager of Stone Depot, one of the Philippines' leading suppliers of granite, marble, and quartz. Since 2010, he has been in the stone industry, working for a similar company in Balintawak, Quezon City.
You can find him playing Magic: the Gathering at a hobby store every Friday night.
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