Calculating stainless steel kitchen countertop installation expenses |
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How much does it cost to install stainless steel countertop? Cost of stainless steel kitchen countertop installation defines by number of factors and total expenses depend on the prices of steel per square foot and labor cost to complete the work. But calculating total expenditures for installing a new stainless steel kitchen countertop number of additional factors should be taken into account. Contractor or local metal fabricator will calculate the cost after detailed measurements and analyzing work complexity. Itemized estimate will reflect all charges and fees associated with stainless steel countertop fabrication, delivery and installation as well as expenses for materials which have to be purchased to complete the work successfully. Estimating stainless steel countertop installation cost
Stainless steel is one of the most expensive countertop options and professionally installed in custom kitchen it will have higher price comparing to granite, engineered stone or other solid surface materials. The cost of steel which sold as metal sheets different dimension will depend on its thickness and grade. Thinner steel will have lower price, but it is more susceptible to dents which very hard to eliminate from the countertop surface ones it’s installed. For most residential kitchens 16 – 14 gauge steel recommended.
Fabrication, delivery and actual installation of the stainless steel countertop at a job site will define the labor cost. Kitchen size and shape will impact the cost of man power significantly. Simple gluing of a rectangle single piece of steel sheet with square edge over particle board or plywood and installing a drop-in sink will be estimated at minimum charge. Welding and polishing seems as well as creating stylish shape will be priced at much higher rates. The cost will escalate for making an integrated stainless steel kitchen sink.
Most home improvement retailers do not have stainless steel in stock, but many of them can design and place special order for fabricating, delivery and installation of a metal counter after in-home consultation. It is the most convenient, but typically the most expensive option. Local sheet metal shops might offer much better deals and they typically are much flexible with prices.
Two professional installers should be able to complete installation of a 40 – 45 square feet fabricated in shop stainless steel countertop in the L-shape kitchen within 5 – 7 hours. It will normally include demolishing an old countertop, building support from plywood or particle boards, making sink cut out, welding and polishing two seams, gluing steel to the core and sink installation. If no welding will be involved the time will be significantly reduced. Fabricator or contractor typically will schedule installation in 3 – 4 days after taking measurements. It might take longer during a busy season.
Difficulty of work will depend on the kitchen size and layout. Many homeowners can easily manage installation of a 7 feet long fabricated in shop sheet of steel over plywood and a drop-in sink. But welding multiple pieces together as well as making seams nearly invisible requires skills and experience. Stainless steel is not a cheap product and it is never a wise idea to invest into quality material, but trying to cut on labor. Poor installation can cause the whole countertop look far away from any expectations. It is always better to hire a professional contractor who will guaranty the work quality for completing such project. |
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