Kitchen planning guide
Kitchen Worktop Replacement Cost UK
How much does kitchen worktop replacement cost in the UK? Compare laminate, solid wood, granite, quartz and composite worktop prices including installation.
Typical budget range
£5,000–£30,000+
Main cost drivers
Cabinets, worktops, appliances, layout
Best use
Understanding budget before quotes
Kitchen example
A realistic mid-range kitchen look — useful for grounding the kind of finish these guides are talking about.
Kitchen guide snapshot
Most kitchen budgets are won or lost on scope discipline
The biggest swings usually come from layout changes, appliance level and worktop choices rather than decorative details alone.
Remember
Keeping the existing layout usually protects the budget far more than people expect.
Good next step
Use the kitchen calculator after reading to test your own size, specification and region.
Worktop Cost Comparison
| Material | Cost per m² | Typical Kitchen (8 m²) | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laminate | £25–£80 | £200–£650 | 5–10 years |
| Solid Wood (Oak, Beech) | £60–£150 | £480–£1,200 | 15–25 years with care |
| Stainless Steel | £80–£200 | £640–£1,600 | 25+ years |
| Granite | £150–£350 | £1,200–£2,800 | 30+ years |
| Quartz | £200–£500 | £1,600–£4,000 | 30+ years |
| Composite / Acrylic | £200–£400 | £1,600–£3,200 | 20–30 years |
Prices are for supply only. Fitting typically adds £150–£400 depending on complexity, number of joins, and cut-outs required.
Laminate Worktops
The most affordable option. Modern laminates are significantly better than they were 20 years ago — better adhesives, more realistic prints, improved edge sealing. Good for landlords, first homes, or anyone on a tight budget.
Watch out for: water damage at joins and around sinks. Hot pans can scorch the surface. Cut-outs for hobs and sinks are the weakest points.
Solid Wood Worktops
Oak is the most common. Real wood grain, warm feel, can be sanded and refinished multiple times. Requires annual oiling to maintain moisture resistance.
Watch out for: warping if water pools on the surface. Deep scratches can be sanded out. Not suitable for heavy-use families who leave wet dishes on the surface.
Quartz Worktops
The most popular premium choice. Typically 93% quartzite aggregate bound with resin. Non-porous, scratch-resistant, available in huge range of colours and finishes including marble-effect.
Watch out for: direct heat can damage the resin — always use a trivet. Visible joins are normal on large kitchens. Premium brands (Silestone, Caesarstone, Cambria) command higher prices.
Granite Worktops
Natural stone with unique veining — no two slabs are the same. Extremely hard and heat-resistant. Requires sealing on installation (most modern granites are pre-sealed).
Watch out for: Granite is porous without sealing. Oil and wine can stain if left unattended. Heavier than other materials — check cabinet strength. Premium stones (Blue Louise, Nero Assoluto) cost significantly more.
Fitting and Templating Costs
For any stone or solid surface worktop, you'll typically need:
- Templating visit — often included in quote, sometimes £50–£150 extra
- Delivery and installation — typically included if using the supplier's fitter
- Cut-outs for hob, sink, tap — usually included in supply-and-fit quotes
- Additional reinforcement — for unsupported overhangs or breakfast bars
Calculate your full kitchen cost including worktops
See how your worktop choice affects your total budget.
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