How Much Do Solid Surface Countertops Cost? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $1,500 - $9,000
Installing solid surface countertops costs on average $3,000 depending on the size of your counter and material.
Solid surface countertops cost $1,500 to $9,000, with an average cost of $3,000. This comes out to about $50 to $150 per square foot for materials and labor. These counters are nonporous and low-maintenance, making them a solid choice for many homes. Here are all the different cost factors to keep in mind as you plan your countertop installation.
- Average
- $3,000
- Low end
- $250
- high end
- $11,250
Solid Surface Countertop Cost Factors
Here are the most important cost factors you should keep in mind when budgeting for your new solid surface countertops.
Solid Surface Countertop Cost per Square Foot
You can get an idea of solid surface countertop prices by figuring out which countertop size you need (you can measure your countertops if you’re unsure). Bathroom countertops are 6 square feet on average, while kitchen countertops are usually around 30 square feet. Depending on the size of your bathroom or kitchen, you may need something smaller or larger.
| Countertop Length (Feet) | Average Price Range |
|---|---|
| 5–20 | $250–$3,000 |
| 20–30 | $1,000–$4,500 |
| 30–40 | $1,500–$6,000 |
| 40–60 | $2,000–$9,000 |
Material Type
Manufacturers make solid surface countertops using mineral dust, resins, and pigments. Most solid surface counters are acrylic-based, although there are polyester-based ones too. Acrylic-based counters are more durable than polyester-based, but polyester-based counters are available in brighter color choices. The following prices are for materials only.
| Countertop Material | Average Cost (Per Square Foot) |
|---|---|
| Acrylic | $20–$80 |
| Polyester | $30–$60 |
Brand
The first brand to offer solid surface countertops to the world was Corian®. Since then, many other companies have followed suit to offer their versions of solid surface counters. Each brand offers its designs and colors, and Durat is one of the few that offer a polyester-based product.
Consider the different types of solid surface countertops to find the right fit for your project. The following costs cover materials only.
| Brand | Average Cost (Per Square Foot) |
|---|---|
| Avonite™ | $30–$50 |
| Corian® | $25–$50 |
| Durat | $30–$50 |
| Formica® | $30–$35 |
| LivingStone® | $20–$25 |
| Wilsonart® | $25–$30 |
Slab Thickness
For solid surface countertops, look for slabs that are 1/2 inch thick for durability. You may want to grab some matching 1/4-inch-thick slabs for the wall if you plan to have matching accents in the bathroom or kitchen.
| Thickness | Average Cost (Per Slab) |
|---|---|
| 1/4 inch | $335–$1,075 |
| 1/2 inch | $815–$2,215 |
Finish
The price of your solid surface countertops will likely be similar for the different finish types, ranging between $15 and $50 per square foot. Matte finishes are fashionable, but they’re harder to clean and tend to age faster. High-gloss finishes offer a distinctly appealing appearance, but you’ll notice it scratches more easily. Semi-gloss finishes are easier to repair than high-gloss finishes and offer that great, modern look for contemporary kitchens.
Edging
You can choose from many different edging options for your solid surface countertops. They range between $10 and $35 per linear foot and enhance the look of your counters. You might go with something simple like a bevel edge for a modern kitchen or a French cove for a traditional space.
| Edging Type | Average Cost (Per Linear Foot) |
|---|---|
| Half or Full Bullnose | $10–$12 |
| Bevel | $10–$12 |
| Ogee, Dupont, Mitre, or Quirk | $20–$25 |
| French Cove | $30–$35 |
Labor
The labor costs to install solid surface countertops are about $40 to $70 per square foot. You’ll also pay $150 to $370 in labor for a cooktop installation and $45 to $200 per hour for a plumber’s rate. Chances are, you’ll also need to call in an electrician to install new outlets, smart plugs, charging ports, and more. They usually charge $50 to $100 per hour.
Location
Here are the average costs you can expect to pay for solid surface countertops in different areas of your home. Some brands offer specific lines of countertops that are better for outdoor use, in case you’re dreaming of an outdoor kitchen.
| Location | Average Price Range |
|---|---|
| Bathrooms | $420–$1,560 |
| Kitchens | $2,100–$5,200 |
| Outdoor Kitchens | $840–$2,600 |
Solid Surface Countertops Ongoing Expenses
After a solid surface countertop installation, these are the ongoing expenses. Generally, these costs are very low unless you damage the counters (which doesn’t happen easily).
Maintenance
Solid surface countertops are fairly low-maintenance, especially since they don’t require sealing. You can get solid surface cleaners for about $10, or you can use soapy water or ammonia-based cleaners. For some finishes, like semi-gloss or high-gloss, it’s a good idea to avoid abrasive cleaning products.
Repairs
For hard water marks, you can use hard water mark cleaners, which cost around $5, and you can typically scrub away stains with a scouring pad. Sandpaper works for fixing light scratches on matte and semi-gloss surfaces. For damage on high-gloss surfaces, contact a pro since it’s harder to DIY.
You can expect professional repair costs for solid surface counters to range between $150 and $750, with a crack repair costing $350 on average.
DIY Solid Surface Counters vs. Hiring a Pro
Depending on your level of experience, you may be able to take on your solid surface countertop installation. You will need to source your countertops, either from a supplier in person or online. And you should have a high level of expertise working with different types of saws and sanders. These counters are heavy, so you should find someone to help you out.
Otherwise, hire a solid surface countertop installer near you. Poor countertop installation or inaccurate measurements can cause problems like gaps or cracks that will take away from the beauty of the counters. And if you accidentally damage your counter during the installation process, you’ll have to fork over the big bucks again to get a replacement.
Some brands, like Corian®, require professional installation of their products if you buy slabs directly from them. So, if you have a specific brand in mind, contact them to see if a DIY job is possible.
Cost of Common Solid Surface Countertop Add-Ons
Here are some of the most common add-ons you may run into as you plan your solid surface countertop installation.
You should decide whether you want an integral backsplash or sink (and let your installer know) before getting started on the project. Integral backsplashes and sinks offer a seamless look that can be easier to clean.
Integral backsplash: $3–$5 per linear foot
Integral sink: $100–$300 per sink
Standard backsplash costs: $15–$40 per square foot
Kitchen island costs: $4,000
Counter cutouts: $20–$400
Old counter removal: $50–$350
Cooktop installation: $550–$1670
Permits: $500–$1,500
Tips to Reduce Costs While Installing Solid Surface Counters
As you look into different types of solid surface countertops, you’ll notice some big price differences, depending on the brand, colors, and design. If you’re willing to be flexible on the exact kind of counter you want for your home, choosing a wallet-friendly slab is the easiest way to cut costs.
Also, you might do the legwork and source the countertops on your own. By doing some comparison shopping, you might find a better deal.
Finally, get quotes from at least three countertop installers and compare their services. Don’t always choose the lowest quote, as you want to hire an experienced installer, and always check each countertop pro’s reviews and see if they have a good reputation.
Pros and Cons of Solid Surface Countertops
Solid-surface countertops are a popular option for your kitchen or bathroom. However, like any material, they have advantages and disadvantages.
Pros
Available in various colors and patterns
Non-porous and easy to clean
No visible joints through seamless installation
Easy to repair if scratched or damaged
Durable and resistant to stains and mold
Polyester-based solid surface counters are 100% recyclable
Cons
Can only withstand temperatures up to 212 degrees Fahrenheit
Exposure to hot items can cause scorching, discoloration, or cracking
Softer than natural stone, making them easier to scratch and damage
Can suffer damage if water seeps into seams or edges.
Requires careful maintenance, especially for chemical exposure
Shorter life span than natural stone
Frequently Asked Questions
Corian® is a well-known brand that sells solid-surface countertops. However, they're not the only ones who offer this product. “Corian® countertops” and “solid-surface countertops” are often used interchangeably because the parent company was the first to patent the solid-surface counter. Once the company lost the patent, other companies began offering their version of solid-surface countertops.
You attach solid surface counters with construction adhesive. Once your slab is ready, you fit it to the wall, apply the adhesive, and secure it in place with clamps until the glue dries. This usually takes several days.
Afterward, you install the backsplash, faucets, and more. At this point, you can caulk the counter, allow it to dry for 24 hours, and then you're done with the installation.
There are many differences between solid surface and quartz countertops. Whether one is as good as the other will depend on what you value most in a counter. These two materials are nonporous, although quartz is more durable. Some people may prefer the look of quartz, although they’re both available in many different colors and designs.