The thickness of a given slab of granite can greatly affect the price per square foot. Blocks of granite are typically sliced into 3/4-inch and 1 1/4-inch thick slabs.
Consumers choose granite countertops for their exceptional ability to resist wear, heat, freezing and corrosion. Perhaps the most desirable property of granite is its hardness, which makes it one of the strongest materials used in the manufacturing of countertops. These attributes of granite contribute to its high price and desirability among consumers.
Installation will always drive up the overall cost of a granite countertop project. Installing granite countertops is not for the do-it-yourself handyman; it is recommended that the entire granite countertop installation process be executed only by trained professionals.
Not all slabs of granite are created equal. Lower grade granite may contain divots, imperfections and may have an undesirable pattern. The lower the grade of granite used, the lower the overall price tag for a granite countertop project.
Taking in all factors that contribute to the price of granite countertops, consumers can expect to pay between $50 and $90 for each square foot of granite countertop installed.