One of the top alternatives to granite countertops is marble due to its timeless design and various patterns. The best part about marble is that it is more affordable than granite. The price of this material per square foot can be between $40 and $100.
Laminate countertops are an inexpensive, low-maintenance alternative to pricey stone and solid-surface countertops, and they are available in many styles that mimic expensive surfaces such as granite or marble.
Three of the most popular types of kitchen counter materials—solid surface, quartz, and slab granite—look alike and have many of the same properties. The stone-like appearance and homogeneous composition found in granite are engineered into solid surface and quartz countertops.
Quartz is actually harder than granite and thus, more durable. In fact, quartz is nearly indestructible, and because it isn't porous like granite, it's easy to keep your countertops relatively bacteria-free.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz is one of the strongest materials you can use, making it one of the best-value countertops available. Both scratch- and stain-resistant, quartz countertops can look brand new for years even after withstanding heavy usage.
What is Fake Granite? Fake granite is just what it sounds like – countertops that are made to imitate the beauty of the natural stone. Many countertop surfaces can be made to have the look of granite, from engineered stone to laminate to countertops that are even painted to have a granite look.
Quartz countertops are the easiest natural stone to take care of. They are engineered using ground stone and resin, so they don't require regular sealing they way most granite and marble countertops do. This stone is non-porous, so it does not easily stain or etch.
Quartz wins as the most durable material for any kitchen construction or renovation. Having a durable countertop is a lifelong investment and if you plan to sell your home at some point in the future, its value will be higher if you've used a durable countertop like quartz.
Everything from white granite and black granite countertops to granite slabs has fallen out of style. The second reason granite countertops have lost their appeal is that the preference for light, simple kitchens has replaced the trend of dark, warm kitchens. Designers quit wanting “movement” and instead wanted peace.
Cost. Corian costs $70 to $130 per square foot. Granite's pricing varies a lot according to appearance and coloring, but most granite goes for $40 to $150 per square foot. Installation costs for both materials often vary by region.
Marble tops the most-expensive list due in large part to its elegant looks. The good: It will instantly lift your kitchen or bathroom to another level.
Reasons to be Cautious about Granite Countertops
Granite is porous. This means that unsealed or poorly sealed counters can absorb wine, juice or oil, producing a stain that might be impossible to remove. A poorly-sealed countertop can also harbor bacteria in its pores.
Each slab of granite is different, so it may not be a good choice if you prefer a completely uniform look. Granite itself is expensive, and the labor-intensive installation can run three times more than the cost of the material. Granite can be permanently stained if you seal it with a preexisting stain.
Cons for Granite Countertops
Granite countertops are strong and durable as long as it receives sealing each year. If homeowners are lax in their maintenance, the porous granite can suck up oils, juice, and wine, which will be impossible to remove. Bacteria can also harbor inside granite if not sealed properly.
White marble will always be an elegant choice for kitchen countertops, but if the maintenance and potential for staining has you worrying about its longevity, consider butcher block. The go-to choice for farmhouse kitchens, butcher block will wear beautifully over the years, and you can prepare food directly on it.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz is resistant to scratches, stains, and heat, plus it's non-porous. This makes quartz one of the most durable countertops you can buy for your kitchen or bathroom.
Quartz. Currently the most popular choice in kitchen countertops, homeowners choose quartz surfacing because of its many advantages. Quartz doesn't need to be sealed, and its seams blend very well.
Quartz countertops from companies such as Caesarstone and PentalQuartz are another good option. Blackband recommends sticking with white or, if you don't like white, a neutral color, such as tan, beige or ivory. Go with a subtle pattern and low veining for a longer-lasting look.
Generally, quartz is less expensive than granite, but many factors influence the total price of a project. In this article, we'll look at the differences between natural granite stone and engineered quartz stone and the factors that affect pricing so you can determine which material is best for your design project.
Ceramic and porcelain tile are among the most affordable varieties and come in a wide range of colors and patterns, including designs that mimic granite and other stone. Natural stone tiles are pricier than ceramic but are much more affordable than slab granite or marble.
Corian is cheaper than quartz upfront. You can expect to pay between $40 and $65 per square foot for Corian while quartz starts at $40 and can extend well beyond $200 per square foot. Corian will cost more over the long haul due to the material's fragility and poor resale value.
Cheap Kitchen Countertops Alternatives: Tile
And installing tile countertops yourself is a budget-friendly way to add the charm of stone for a fraction of the price. So consider a tile-topped island with solid surface perimeter countertops for a modern feel.