blog-banner

Are you looking for a contractor?

Submit our quick form and get quotes now!

How to Get a Kitchen Countertop for Under $100

By Editorial Team

Updated on September 25, 2024

kitchen countertop

Looking to change your kitchen countertop but think you can’t afford it? A countertop is a work surface that needs to be both practical and aesthetically pleasing. It is also one of the elements that can be very expensive when renovating a kitchen. 

A quick look at our article about kitchen countertops (Price guide: kitchen countertops) will have you notice that several materials are quite costly. However, there are materials that are affordable and of good quality.

Discover these amazing kitchen countertop materials that cost less than 100$ per square foot.

3 kitchen countertop materials that cost less than $100/square foot

Note: Throughout the article, we mostly discuss kitchen countertops, but all the information and advice apply to bathroom countertops too, along with other surfaces alike.

1) Laminate countertop

afordable kitchen countertop

Source: Canva

Laminate countertop is made of plastic-covered chipboard, plywood or wood fibres. Many colours, patterns, and textures are available. 

 

Pros and cons of laminate countertops

Also, it is resistant to water and stains. Another advantage is that it is easy to clean: you only need water and soap to clear off dirt. However, laminate is sensitive to scratches, therefore, cutting food directly on the surface is not recommended. Always use a cutting board to protect it.

 

Cost of a laminate countertop

Since laminate is very affordable and durable - between $10 to $30 per square foot - it is one of the most popular materials used for kitchen countertops.

2) Tile countertop

afordable kitchen countertop

Source: Canva

Tiles are made from clay which is heated at very high temperatures. The ones that are used for kitchens are usually porcelain or ceramic tiles. Many textures, colours and patterns are available and you can assemble them in various ways. You could even create amazing mosaics. Although a tile surface is usually polished, you can also find matte finish ones.

 

Pros and cons of tile countertops

Tiles are resistant to water, heat, stains and scratches. They are durable and easy to clean.

However, be careful with your porcelain and glass kitchen accessories: they probably won’t resist if they fall on your tile countertops. Also, since tile joints tend to accumulate dirt, this part can be quite hard to clean. Lastly, cutting food on tiles may damage them so you should use a cutting board to prevent it.

Cost of a tile countertop

Tiles are very affordable. They cost anywhere between $30 and $100 per square foot.

Learn more about ceramics by checking out this article: Different types of ceramics and their features.

3) Wooden countertop

afordable kitchen countertop

Source: Canva

A wide range of wooden countertops is available. Much like in floor covering, you can choose the type of wood and the finish that best suits your taste. For kitchens, types of wood like oak, beech, and teak are more suitable. Wood is a very good material on which to cut food.

 

Pros and cons of wood countertops

Also, its level of heat resistance is good and it is easy to clean. However, wood is less durable than the other materials used for kitchen countertops. It is sensitive both to humidity and to scratches. 

Also, wood changes depending on the environment: it tends to contract in dry weather and expands when the air is humid. Finally, be aware that you will have to varnish or oil your wood kitchen countertops on a regular basis in order to protect them.

 

Price of a wooden countertop

Wood kitchen countertops cost from $13 to $120 per square foot

Affordable kitchen countertops in a nutshell

Type of counter

Average price

Laminate counter

approx. $10 to $30/square foot

Tile counter

approx. $30 to $100/square foot

Wooden counter

approx. $13 to $120/square foot

All the prices mentioned in this article do not include the installation process, which can vary depending on the material chosen and the complexity of the task.

To find out about the average prices of different home renovation projects, check out our Home renovation price guide. 

Get 3 renovation quotes for your kitchen countertop project

RenoQuotes.com can help you get quotes for your kitchen countertop project. If you submit your project to us, we’ll put you in contact with the most suitable contractors for you. Fill in the form on the homepage (only a few minutes), and you will receive quotes from kitchen renovation specialists. 

Dial 1-844 828-1588 to speak with one of our customer service representatives.

Get 3 free quotes for your project!

Submit a project and get 3 free quotes!

Looking for something else?

Get 3 free quotes for your project!

Submit a project and get 3 free quotes!

Are you a contractor?

Join our network and receive real leads!

Download the price guide for renovations

We’ll be emailing you the latest market price guide for renovations.



Related articles

The latest industry news, interviews, technologies, and resources.

7 min read

Editorial Team

24 Sep 2024

7 Stone Kitchen Countertop Alternatives

Stone kitchen countertops are certainly popular, but there are other alternatives to this type of material. If you're looking for the perfect match for your kitchen counter, it's understandable that you feel confused about all the options offered to you.

5 min read

Cynthia Pigeon

07 Nov 2023

Repairing or Replacing Your Windows?

Every homeowner knows that replacing windows entails quite an expense. Strangely enough, most of us think about making this important decision as soon as our windows start showing signs of wear and tear or malfunction, despite anticipating the considerable costs associated with this choice. But is it always the right decision?

Interior renovations
4 min read

Editorial Team

31 Mar 2025

Renovation Project - How to Ensure Effective Coordination

Coordinating a home improvement project is essential to ensure it unfolds successfully, limiting the potential stress arising from unexpected circumstances. Meticulous planning enables a harmonious collaboration between the different construction professionals and avoids delays and overspending. 

Advice for contractor
4 min read

Editorial Team

05 Sep 2024

How to Recognize Mould in Your Bathroom

Mould doesn’t just grow any place, any time. It has conditions! Although moisture is the leading cause, mould finds other ways to build its colony. For the homeowner, this can become a serious problem, as mould isn’t only unappealing, but has serious health implications for yourself as well as your friends and family.

6 min read

Editorial Team

02 May 2025

Home Adaptations Cost Guide - How Much to Budget in 2025?

In this home adaptation financial guide, we’ll explore the expenses associated with essential home improvements, enhancing accessibility and functionality. How much should you budget to install a wheelchair ramp or upgrade a bathroom? What factors affect the cost of home adaptations? This guide addresses these questions and more, helping you plan your project as efficiently as possible. 

Home Extension

Looking for a contractor?

Submit a project and get 3 free quotes now!