In addition to the suggestions in the video below, I’ve recently seen some great looking countertops in Poured Concrete, recycled glass, and even some very attractive new plastic laminates with a number of customizable edges. Builders are offering more options than ever in their New Construction homes and of course your options are unlimited if you are remodeling. Do your research though. Each countertop material has its own pros and cons and whether durability, aesthetics, price or environmentally-concious is your main concern, there are fantastic options from which to choose.
Video: Granite is the thing… so what’s the other thing? Granite Alternatives.
Video Transcript: Granite is the thing… so what’s the other thing? Granite Alternatives.
Granite may the the countertop of choice for most kitchen remodelers but there are less expensive options available.
Welcome to Today’s News Update everyone, I’m Jenny Dunn.
The Marble Institute says over 75% of homeowners have chosen granite for their new countertops over the past decade. Granite is attractive and durable, but it’s also expensive and very heavy.
Fortunately there are good alternatives to granite. The American Kitchen and Baths suggests several including Carrara Marble. It’s softer than granite and more easily scratched but over time it develops a warm and attractive appearance.
Wood countertops are becoming popular again with their warmth, style and durability. Butcher Block is most common but slabs can be made from a variety of woods.
Soapstone is another good granite alternative. Soapstone has a smooth surface with a variety of shades of gray. It’s not easily stained, resists heat and is easy to care for.
Engineered Quarts is 95 % ground natural quarts mixed with polymer resins. It offers a super-hard, low maintenance choice.
Finally, stainless steel is an option. It’s stain and heat resistant but can be scratched or dented.
We hope this information is useful. Thanks for watching. We look forward to seeing you next time.
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I’ve been watching the HGTV station on TV lately and notice how unique the poured concrete counter-tops look, unique. I have not seen the recycled glass yet.
After visiting several new-build sites recently I realized how quickly these things change. A few trends like poured concrete might have some staying power but I have to wonder about some of the others, whether or not they’re just ‘trendy’ and how long they will last. Some of the recycled glass has a granite look but I can’t imagine that it is as durable.