Granite worktops are strong, elegant, and long-lasting. Therefore, many homeowners across the UK choose them when renovating their home, especially the kitchen. However, the final price of installing granite worktops can be higher than expected. It often happens due to hidden expenses that only appear during or after installation.
These costs can affect your budget and create unnecessary stress. It is important to understand what these costs are and how they affect your project.
Hidden Costs of Installing Granite Worktops in the UK
Extra Charges Due to Restricted Access
You often have to face this when ordering granite worktops in Manchester or other busy parts of the UK. Many areas in central Manchester have narrow streets, limited parking, or red routes. This means the supplier may not be able to park close to your house and will charge extra for special handling or longer unloading times. This is a hidden cost you are more likely to face if you live in or around central Manchester.
Templating and Measurement Revisions
When installing granite worktops, exact measurements are crucial. A professional usually visits your home to take detailed measurements and create a template. This service often comes with added fees, especially if a second visit is needed.
For example, if you make changes to the kitchen layout after the first measurement, the company may charge you for another visit. These revision costs can be surprising, especially when small layout changes affect the entire granite cutting and fitting process.
Reinforcing Weak Kitchen Units
Granite is a heavy stone, and not all kitchen cabinets can support it. Before fitting, installers may find that the existing units are weak and need reinforcement. This can involve adding new support beams, strengthening panels or replacing old cupboards.
These extra jobs are not included in your original worktop quote. If ignored, your granite can crack or cause your units to collapse. In short, reinforcing your kitchen structure can be a hidden expense you were not expecting when planning your new worktop.
Sink and Hob Cut-Out Fees
When you buy a granite worktop, you may assume that the openings for your sink and hob are part of the quote. However, in most cases, you are charged extra for each cut-out. The price can increase further if you have an undermount sink or need polishing around the edges.
Some companies may include one cut-out but charge extra for additional ones. If your kitchen design involves multiple appliances, the total cost can go up quickly. Therefore, you should always ask in advance how many cutouts are included and what charges apply for special designs.
Waste Removal and Site Clean-Up
After the granite worktop is installed, you have to handle offcuts, packaging, and old worktops. All these things need to be disposed of properly. Most people assume that waste removal is part of the service. However, many installers leave the waste behind or offer to take it away for an added charge.
If you have to hire a skip or book a waste removal service yourself, this can also cost a considerable amount. You should always ask your supplier whether cleanup and waste removal are part of the service or if you have to pay extra for these services.
Sealing and Ongoing Maintenance
Granite worktops need to be sealed properly to protect them from stains and liquid damage. Most suppliers apply a basic sealant during the installation process. However, you may want to opt for extra coats for better protection. This can involve additional labour and material costs.
Moreover, you will also need to reseal your granite every year or two, based on usage. These maintenance needs are not usually explained upfront. If ignored, your worktop may lose its shine or develop stains. To keep it looking new, you’ll need to invest in proper sealing and cleaning products.
Higher Labour Costs
The labour charges for installing granite worktops in Liverpool and various other regions of the UK can be higher than expected. This is mainly due to the demand for skilled fitters in popular residential areas where modern kitchen upgrades are common.
In some cases, installation teams charge extra fees for travel within the city or for working in older properties that require more care during fitting. You also have to lay extra in an area where building regulations or property layouts are more complex. You should request a detailed breakdown of labour costs before confirming the installation date.
Plumbing and Electrical Changes
Sometimes, installing a granite worktop affects your existing plumbing or electrical connections. In such cases, a plumber or electrician needs to adjust pipes, taps, or power points. These adjustments are not included in your granite installation quote and must be paid for separately.
Granite worktops can truly transform your kitchen. However, the final cost is often higher than the quotes. You must plan for the aforementioned hidden charges in advance to avoid any problems throughout the project.
