Tips For Buying Stone Countertops From A Local Slab Warehouse

There are potential mistakes to avoid when buying countertops no matter where you shop, but heading down to your local slab warehouse to look at what they have in stock can help you avoid plenty of these issues. The key phrase to keep in mind when considering your seemingly endless options is "in stock." Choosing from these options means you will not have to wait as long for your countertops as you might if you special-order stone. Additionally, at a warehouse, you can see and choose the actual slab rather than hoping the picture online or the small sample in the store is exactly what you want. 

You will also be able to see the exact pricing, letting you understand the difference between the price for materials versus fabrication. On that note, be sure to have a fabricator pre-selected, as moving and cutting stone slabs is not a typical DIY job and warehouses often only sell to fabricators. Some suppliers even do it all to keep things simple, but purchasing the slab separately allows you to shop around for the best fabrication price. Transportation of slabs is often a big part of the cost, so stone that is close to home could save some money. If you're looking for budget-friendly countertops, however, your local warehouse may still be more expensive than big box stores or prefabricated options. Alternatively, look for a wholesaler, where you may get the same benefits as a warehouse at a cheaper price.

Warehouses can be a bit overwhelming for homeowners — from the sheer number of options to understanding the industry-specific lingo, the average shopper is going to need some help. There are specific ways to narrow down your options; budget, material, and color are the main factors to consider. Also, remember that you can and should ask for help from a salesperson to guide you toward the right purchase. 

If you don't need much stone, consider shopping the remnants. This is a great option for bathrooms or small kitchens where you may not need a full slab to get what you need. However, if you are looking for one or more full slabs, we have some tips to help you find the right fit. Start by bringing your other materials with you. Paint swatches. Cabinet doors. Sample tiles. Bring everything you have down to the warehouse to see how any slab you like interacts with the other elements in your room. 

Once you're there, find a sales representative. Tell them what your budget is and how much stone you will need for your project. If you already have a preferred material in mind, let them know this, too. The rep will be able to steer you to the options that work best for your budget. If you aren't sure what material you want, consider these timeless options for kitchen countertops to guarantee you'll love your choice for years to come.