8 Cheap Countertop Ideas

If you’re thinking of upgrading your kitchen countertops, one of the biggest factors to consider is your budget. Fortunately, you don’t have to spend a fortune to get your dream kitchen.

There are plenty of inexpensive countertop options that can enhance the look of your kitchen for less. In this blog post, we’ve rounded up eight cheap countertop ideas, from lowest to highest, to consider for your renovation project.

1. Laminate Countertops

Average price: $8-$20 per square foot

One of the cheapest countertop options you can find is laminate. Attractive and increasingly popular, laminate countertops are made of layers of plastic resin and kraft paper pressed and heated to form a solid, decorative kitchen surface. This material comes in a wide range of styles and designs, making it easy to find one that matches your kitchen aesthetic.

Laminate isn’t as durable as other countertop options because it’s susceptible to stains and scratches. Fortunately, laminate countertops are easily repairable.

Pros

• Quick installation
• Easy to clean
• Available in variety of colors and patterns

Cons

• Susceptible to scratches and stains
• Not as durable as tile and natural material countertops

2. Painted Countertops

Average price: $10-$18 per square foot

One of the most budget-friendly ways to refresh the look of your kitchen without replacing the entire countertop is by painting it. This involves applying a new coat of paint or other decorative finish, like epoxy, onto your existing countertop surface. Painting countertops is relatively simpler and quicker to complete than installing a new countertop.

Just keep in mind that painted countertops may require more upkeep to maintain their appearance. The final look also greatly depends on the finish you choose and overall quality of the work.

Pros

• Quicker than installation
• Easier upgrade option

Cons

• Requires regular maintenance
• Not as durable as a newly installed surface

3. Tile Countertops

Average price: $17-$29 per square foot

Tile is another cost-effective option for renovating your kitchen countertops. It’s versatile and available in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and materials. Tile countertops are very durable and heat- and scratch-resistant.

It’s important to note that tile requires a bit more maintenance than other countertop materials. For example, dirt can accumulate between the gaps over time, so the tile will need regular cleaning. Also, if the countertop cracks and needs repair, it can be challenging to grout tiles on your own.

Pros

• Available in a variety of materials and styles
• Durable
• Scratch- and heat-resistant

Cons

• High-maintenance
• Longer process to install than other countertops

4. Butcher Block (Wood) Countertops

Average price: $30-$85 per square foot

Wood typically isn’t the first material that comes to mind when thinking about kitchen countertops. However, it’s a great alternative to expensive stone countertops if you prefer a natural aesthetic to match your kitchen cabinetry. Butcher block countertops are generally made of high-quality wood, like walnut or maple, and can create a stunning and long-lasting countertop. This material is very affordable and customizable.

The only downside is that it's susceptible to damage—including heat, moisture, and wear and tear—if not treated properly and well-maintained. This means you’ll have to put in extra effort to keep the countertop looking nice.

Pros

• Natural material, classic look
• Customizable

Cons

• Susceptible to damage
• Requires regular maintenance

5. Solid Surfacing Countertops

Average price: $50-$140 per square foot

If you want a natural-looking countertop at a much more affordable price than marble, solid surfacing is a great option. These countertops are made of a nonporous, synthetic material that’s smooth and sleek with natural pigment. The material is also heat-resistant.

Since solid surfacing countertops are man-made, you can get them in a wide range of colors and patterns. They can, however, chip and crack over time. They’re generally resistant to heat, but extremely high temperatures can cause discoloration.

Pros

• Heat-resistant
• Customizable

Cons

• Can damage over time
• Can suffer discoloration from high heat

6. Quartz Countertops

Average price: $70-$150 per square foot

While slightly more expensive than other options in this list, quartz is an affordable alternative to natural stone. It’s engineered stone, so it’s incredibly durable and long-lasting. Quartz is also scratch-resistant. You can find quartz countertops in a variety of colors and patterns, making it a versatile material for any kitchen design.

Pros

• Extremely durable
• Scratch-resistant
• Versatile
• Low-maintenance

Cons

• Vulnerable to heat damage
• Difficult to install without professional help

7. Stainless Steel Countertops

Average price: $80-$90 per square foot

Stainless steel kitchen countertops are stain- and heat-resistant and easy to clean. Their signature shine and durability makes them a popular option for modern kitchen renovations. Stainless steel is also highly resistant to damage, perfect for outdoor kitchens. While it can be prone to fingerprints and smudges, this material is extremely easy to clean.

Pros

• Heat-resistant
• Durable
• Low-maintenance

Cons

• Susceptible to dents
• Can be noisy to work on

8. Concrete Countertops

Average price: $100-$150 per square foot

Concrete countertops offer a simple yet sleek look, a popular choice for both rustic and modern styles as well as kitchen floor ideas. They’re also extremely durable and long-lasting, not to mention heat-resistant.

Though typically smooth and muted in color, you can get concrete in various colors and textures by adding pigments, stains, and dyes. It is heavy, however, and requires a protective sealant against moisture and cracks.

Pros

• Durable
• Heat-resistant
• Customizable

Cons

• Can crack and stain without a proper sealant
• Very heavy

Get Help With Countertop Installation From Mr. Handyman®

While these inexpensive countertop ideas can help you save on a kitchen renovation, it's not recommended to handle countertop installation yourself. Some of these options are heavy and at risk of damage if not properly handled.

For professional help with kitchen countertop installation and repair, call Mr. Handyman. Our experienced and reliable team will complete the installation quickly and efficiently, leaving your kitchen with beautiful new countertops.

This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Mr. Handyman is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact your local Mr. Handyman location for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.

Affordable Countertop FAQs

Mr. Handyman has been helping homeowners repair, maintain, and enhance their spaces for over 25 years! We are the one-stop solution for everything on your to-do list. This includes answering your questions about home repairs, maintenance, and improvements. Here are answers to some of your most frequently asked questions about affordable countertops.

What is the least expensive type of countertop?

The least expensive type of countertop is laminate. It’s appealing and easy to clean, but it can also easily damage from heat, scratches, and moisture.

What is the most durable type of countertop?

Natural stone is the most durable type of countertop. Granite and marble are two popular natural stone countertops in kitchens. Natural stone material is incredibly durable and scratch-resistant but also the most expensive option.

How can I redo my countertops cheaply?

A budget-friendly way to redo kitchen countertops is to resurface them. This requires adding a new, decorative top layer to your existing countertop. There are many resurfacing options, such as with laminate or epoxy coating, to elevate the look without spending a lot of money on a full replacement.

What is the easiest type of countertop to install?

Laminate is considerably the easiest type of countertop material to install. This is because the material is lightweight and doesn't require specialized tools to cut and fit it to your kitchen countertop.