It’s a practical question, and the answer depends on multiple factors: material, size, design, installation complexity, and even your Sydney suburb. Over the years, I’ve installed hundreds of benchtops in laundries across Chatswood, Ryde, Marrickville, Newtown, Bondi, Castle Hill, Hornsby, and the Hills District, so I can give you a clear, realistic picture.

1. Why Benchtop Costs Vary

A laundry benchtop isn’t just a flat surface—it’s where folding, sorting, ironing prep, and sometimes even pet grooming happen. Its price can vary depending on:

• Material choice – Laminates, stone, timber, or engineered surfaces

• Benchtop size – The length and depth of the bench

• Edge profile – Straight edges are cheaper; custom curves or mitres cost more

• Installation – Wall alignment, plumbing cutouts, or splashbacks add to the cost

• Location and access – High-rise apartments in Ultimo or Waterloo may have lift and access fees

Understanding these factors is key to budgeting realistically for your Sydney laundry renovation.

2. Common Laundry Benchtop Materials and Their Costs

Here’s a breakdown of typical materials, average Sydney prices (materials + installation), and their pros and cons:

2.1. Laminated Benchtops

Average Cost: $250 – $450 per linear metre

Pros:

• Affordable and budget-friendly

• Wide colour and pattern options

• Easy to clean and maintain

• Lightweight, simple to install

Cons:

• Less durable than stone or engineered surfaces

• Prone to scratches and heat damage

• Limited lifespan if used heavily

Ideal For: Compact laundries, rentals, or cost-conscious renovations in Marrickville, Five Dock, Ashfield, or Parramatta.

2.2. Timber Benchtops (Solid or Engineered)

Average Cost: $600 – $1,200 per linear metre

Pros:

• Warm, natural aesthetic

• Can be sanded and refinished

• Works well with shaker-style or coastal-themed laundries

Cons:

• Requires regular maintenance to prevent water damage

• Not ideal for high-moisture zones unless properly sealed

Ideal For: Heritage homes in Strathfield, Petersham, or Ashfield, or modern coastal interiors in Coogee, Maroubra, or Dee Why. Timber benchtops give a tactile, natural feel while complementing cabinetry.

2.3. Engineered Stone (Quartz / Caesarstone / Silestone)

Average Cost: $800 – $1,500 per linear metre

Pros:

• Highly durable, scratch and stain-resistant

• Low maintenance

• Wide range of colours and patterns

• Ideal for modern, premium laundries

Cons:

• Higher cost upfront

• Heavy, requires professional installation

Ideal For: Luxury homes in Mosman, Wahroonga, Vaucluse, or high-end townhouse renovations in Ryde or North Sydney. Engineered stone is often chosen for durability, longevity, and seamless style integration with kitchen and bathroom benchtops.

2.4. Natural Stone (Granite, Marble)

Average Cost: $1,000 – $2,000 per linear metre

Pros:

• Timeless elegance

• Heat and scratch-resistant (granite especially)

• Adds resale value

• Perfect for large or visible laundry spaces

Cons:

• Expensive

• Porous stones like marble require sealing

• Heavy; installation requires careful planning

Ideal For: High-end renovations, heritage homes, or luxury coastal homes in Bondi, Manly, or Mosman. Granite is a long-term investment; marble is stunning but requires more care.

2.5. Stainless Steel Benchtops

Average Cost: $700 – $1,200 per linear metre

Pros:

• Industrial, sleek modern look

• Water and heat-resistant

• Extremely durable

Cons:

• Prone to scratches and fingerprints

• Limited colour options

• Can feel cold or clinical in some interiors

Ideal For: Utility-focused laundries, pet-washing stations, or modern industrial homes in Alexandria, Redfern, or Marrickville. Stainless steel is practical for heavy-use environments.

3. Additional Factors Affecting Benchtop Costs

3.1. Splashbacks and Wall Protection

• Adding a matching or contrasting splashback typically adds $50–$150 per metre

• Protects walls from water, detergents, and spills

3.2. Cutouts for Sinks, Washers, and Accessories

• Single-bowl laundry sink cutouts: $150–$300 extra

• Double-bowl or undermount sinks may increase cost

• Tap and mixer installation may be additional

3.3. Custom Shapes and Edges

• Straight edges: included in base cost

• Curved, mitred, or waterfall edges: $100–$300 extra per edge

• Integrated drainboards or work surfaces: adds $200–$500

3.4. Installation Complexity

• Standard bench against a wall: straightforward

• Benches around corners, split levels, or behind obstacles: add $200–$600

• High-rise apartments with lift and access restrictions may incur extra labour costs

4. Average Laundry Benchtop Cost by Suburb

To give Sydney homeowners a practical reference, here’s a rough guide:

Suburb Common Benchtop Type Estimated Cost* Marrickville / Newtown Laminated / Polyurethane $250 – $450 per metre Ryde / North Shore Engineered Stone $800 – $1,500 per metre Bondi / Eastern Suburbs Timber / Stone $600 – $1,800 per metre Castle Hill / Hills District Laminated / Engineered Stone $400 – $1,500 per metre Mosman / Vaucluse Natural Stone / Premium Quartz $1,000 – $2,000 per metre

*These are inclusive of material and standard installation, but custom designs, sinks, or splashbacks may increase the total.

5. Tips to Keep Laundry Benchtop Costs Under Control

1. Choose materials wisely: Laminates for small or budget projects; engineered stone for high-use, premium finishes.

2. Standard sizing: Custom lengths or deep benchtops increase costs.

3. Plan for cutouts in advance: Measure sinks, taps, and appliances before installation.

4. Coordinate with cabinetry: Standard benchtop heights (900mm) reduce fabrication costs.

5. Consider multi-use areas: Folding, ironing, pet washing, and utility tasks may justify a higher investment in durable materials.

By planning ahead and working with an experienced renovator, you can balance durability, aesthetics, and cost—especially in high-demand areas like Surry Hills, Marrickville, Bondi, or Castle Hill.

6. Why Professional Installation Matters in Sydney

Even the best benchtop material can underperform if installed incorrectly.

Professional installation ensures:

• Accurate cutouts for sinks and appliances

• Level alignment, even in older or uneven homes

• Proper sealing and edge finishing to prevent moisture damage

• Safe handling of heavy stone or stainless steel benchtops

Experienced renovators like MB9 Australia Pty Ltd can manage everything, especially in tricky apartments or terrace homes across inner-city Sydney, the North Shore, or Western Sydney suburbs.

7. Budgeting Summary

For a typical Sydney laundry renovation, you can expect:

• Budget/Laminate: $250–$450 per metre

• Mid-Range/Timber: $600–$1,200 per metre

• Premium/Engineered Stone: $800–$1,500 per metre

• High-End/Natural Stone: $1,000–$2,000 per metre

• Extras: Splashbacks, cutouts, curved edges, or challenging installations can add $200–$600 per metre

Keep in mind: The right benchtop choice isn’t just about cost—it’s about durability, style, and daily usability. A well-chosen benchtop will make your Sydney laundry efficient, enjoyable, and long-lasting.

8. Final Thoughts

Laundry benchtops might seem like a small part of a renovation, but they are the workhorse of your home. Choosing the right material, size, and installation method is key for longevity and daily comfort. Whether you’re renovating a compact apartment in Zetland, Waterloo, or Ultimo, or designing a family laundry in Castle Hill, Ryde, or North Shore, a properly planned benchtop transforms the space from cluttered and impractical to sleek, efficient, and stylish.

Visit www.mb9.com.au to find out more information about kitchen, bathroom and house renovation services from MB9 Australia Pty Ltd.