COST GUIDES
How much does it cost to replace kitchen worktops in the UK?
Updated 02/26
Get clued-up on the cost of refreshing an old, dated kitchen with our replacing kitchen worktops cost guide.
Fast Facts
The average labour cost to replace kitchen worktops is £100 per m² in the UK
The average cost of a kitchen worktop (supply only) ranges from £500 to £850 per 5m
Kitchen worktop replacement prices in the UK depend on the type of worktop, the size of your worktop, and installation labour costs
Replacing your kitchen worktops is one of the easiest ways to hit refresh – but costs can vary widely depending on the material and size of your space.
This guide explains the average cost of replacing kitchen worktops in the UK. We also explain what affects the price, and how to budget using our kitchen worktop replacement cost calculator. Let's get into it.
How much does kitchen worktop replacement cost?
| Cost provided item | Cost + VAT (Range low - high) | Average UK cost |
|---|---|---|
| Kitchen worktops - Laminate (5m length) | £200–£800 | £500 |
| Kitchen worktops - Quartz (5m length) | £500–£1,100 | £800 |
| Kitchen worktops - Wood | £300–£900 | £600 |
| Kitchen worktops - Granite (5m length) | £550–£1,150 | £850 |
| Labour - Laminate (per m2) | £40–£60 | £50 |
| Labour - Granite (per m2) | £120–£180 | £150 |
| Labour - Quartz (per m2) | £80–£130 | £110 |
| Kitchen doors | £95–£145 | £120 |
| Unpolished cutouts (Quartz/Granite) | - | £180 |
| Polished cutouts (Quartz/Granite) | - | £185 |
| Drainer grooves (Quartz/Granite) | - | £150 |
| Curved corners (Quartz/Granite) | - | £15 |
| Round edges (Quartz/Granite) | - | £14 |
| Last updated: June 2026 Our costs are ballpark averages - get a local tradesperson to quote now | ||
The average cost of replacing kitchen worktops can be broken down into two parts:
Labour – Around £100 per m²
Worktop – Between £500 and £850 for the supply of a 5m length of worktop
Costs by material type
On average, here's what you should expect to pay for laminate, quartz, wood and granite worktops:
Laminate (5m length) - £500
Quartz (5m length) – £800
Wood (5m length) – £600
Granite (5m length) –£850
As there's not much price difference between granite and quartz, deciding between the two can be tricky. Our granite vs quartz worktop guide helps firm up your decision.
Labour costs for kitchen worktop replacement
If you decide to buy your worktops separately, it's useful to know what the going rate is for a kitchen fitter:
On average, a kitchen fitter tends to charge:
Between £250–£350 per day
Or £37 per hour
And £100 per m²
However, rates can vary depending on what material you choose, as some worktop types are harder and more time-consuming to install than others.
Labour costs for different worktop materials:
Laminate: £50 per m²
Quartz: £110 per m²
Granite: £150 per m²
Depending on the spec of the job, you may also need follow-on trades:
Electrician (for pop-up plugs and worktop charging stations) – £50–£60 per hour
Gas Safe engineer (if a hob needs to be disconnected)
Average worktop replacement cost in the UK
Let's look at the total price to replace a 5m² quartz worktop:
£110 per m² for labour + £850 for a 5m² worktop = £1,400
Ready to get an exact cost for your kitchen transformation? Enter your postcode below to compare quotes from worktop installers working in your area.
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Replacement kitchen worktop cost calculator
Need more help with budgeting for the total job before contacting a fitter?
Use our calculator below to estimate the cost of replacing your worktops based on kitchen size, labour, and add-ons you might need.
Job Estimate Calculator
What affects worktop replacement costs?
Here's the factors to consider when figuring out the cost of a worktop replacement job:
Material – Quartz and wood will cost more
Size of worktop – Think depth as well as length
Curved corners – Expect to pay an average of £15 per corner for quartz and granite
Location – Labour costs in London and parts of the South East may be higher
Custom – Pre-made worktops vs custom ones will alter the price
Level of experience – Skilled tradespeople might be more costly, but you'll get a quality finish in return
On Checkatrade, you'll only find trades who meet our high standards and pass up to 12 checks.
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Hidden costs to watch out for
Moving ovens or hobs – Costs may increase if a Gas Safe engineer is required, even if appliances go back in the same place
Waste removal – Old worktop disposal may not be included in your quote, so you may need to budget separately for skip hire or removal
Installing new kitchen doors – You can expect to pay on average £120 for kitchen doors (if needed)
Additional upgrades – Optional extras include edging strips, new units, kitchen door wrapping, a new sink, or updated kitchen fittings
What’s included in a kitchen worktop replacement quote?
Most kitchen worktop replacement quotes typically include:
Worktop supply – The chosen material, thickness and finish
Measuring and cutting to fit – Including accurate sizing for your kitchen layout
Sink and hob cut-outs – Precision cut openings for appliances
Edging and finishing – Such as rounded, square or decorative edges
Labour costs – Removing old worktops and fitting the new ones
Fixings and sealants – To secure the worktop and protect against water damage
Always ask for an itemised quote, so you can easily compare costs and check exactly what’s included before agreeing to the work.
Never hired a worktop fitter before and don't have any recommendations to go on? Check out our guide to finding and hiring the best worktop fitters covering your local area.
Ways to reduce worktop replacement costs
Keep the existing layout – Avoid moving sinks, hobs, or appliances to reduce labour and specialist costs
Reuse appliances – Refitting existing ovens and hobs is cheaper than replacing them
Choose affordable materials – Laminate and solid wood worktops typically cost less than quartz or granite
Limit cut-outs – Fewer sink, hob, or socket cut-outs can help keep installation costs down
Buy secondhand – Look out for seconds or nearly-good-as-new worktops from private online sellers
Check what’s included – Make sure waste removal and fitting are included to avoid unexpected extras
Can't decide on what type of kitchen worktop to go for? Get inspired with our trending kitchen worktop ideas for 2026.
Why replace your kitchen worktops?
Update a dated kitchen – An instant refresh
Improve performance – Better heat resistance, durability, and hygiene
Fix damage or wear – Stains, chips, burns, or water damage are common signs of wear and tear
Change style or material – Match colours and finishes to your decor
Add value to your home – Well-chosen worktops can improve appeal for future buyers
Upgrade without a full refit – Cheaper than installing a new kitchen
Kitchen worktop replacement cost checklist
Replacement kitchen worktops cost FAQS
How long does it take to replace kitchen worktops?
On average, the time to replace a kitchen worktop is one to two days. That said, it depends on the type and size of worktop you choose.
Do I need to hire a Gas Safe engineer?
Whether or not you need a Gas Safe engineer depends on whether you need to move built-in ovens or hobs.
Even if you are simply moving them and putting them back straight after installing your new worktops, it is wise to hire a Gas Safe engineer.
What materials are best for kitchen worktop replacement?
Popular worktop materials include:
Laminate – Budget-friendly with lots of colours
Quartz – Hard-wearing and stain-resistant
Granite – Durable and heat-resistant
Solid wood – classic look but needs regular care.
Why do some worktops cost more than others?
Heavier materials like granite and quartz need special cutting tools and careful fitting, which adds to cost. Bespoke shapes or features (like waterfall ends) also increase price.
Do I need new cabinets when changing worktops?
If your existing cabinet tops are level and in good condition, many worktops can be fitted on top. Cabinets usually only need replacing if they’re damaged or warped.
Can I replace kitchen worktops myself?
It’s possible for simple laminate worktops if you’re confident with measuring, cutting and handling heavy panels.
But stone and bespoke worktops are tricky to cut and fit accurately. That’s why many homeowners choose to have fitters handle these to avoid any costly DIY mishaps.
It’s also important not to forget to hire a Gas Safe engineer if you are moving ovens and hobs.
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