Synthetic materials are typically less expensive than natural stone, with laminate and acrylic being the most cost-effective choices. "Soapstone and tile are also lower-cost options for countertop materials, but they come with some weaknesses like low durability and limited color options," says Carson.
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.
Pros: Laminate countertops are inexpensive, easy to install, and so much better-looking than you probably remember, thanks to new printing technology and decorative edges. Stains and heat didn't damage the laminates we tested. Cons: Cutting directly on it easily and permanently damages laminate, so use a cutting board.
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.
To give you an idea of quality and longevity, most warranties max out at about five years. However, if the countertops are in a high-traffic space you'll likely see signs of wear much sooner than that, even with a higher quality product.
Vinyl peel and stick backsplashes, especially the low quality ones, can make a space look “cheap”.
Peel and stick tile on countertop surfaces is a cost effective way to update your room in just a little time and with few tools. Often, peel and stick tiles are used to mimic expensive material, like stone.
Painting Countertops
This is possibly the least expensive way to cover up old countertops, especially old wood or linoleum countertops. It's very easy to paint your countertops yourself. Just sand, prime and then paint. You can use a pad sander, but sanding by hand will work just fine.
Quartz countertops are one of the best alternatives to granite counters in terms of durability, aesthetic appeal, functionality, and versatility.
The national average cost to install new countertops at $3,102, with prices ranging typically between $1,859–$4,346. The expected cost of installing new countertops will vary considerably, usually $15 to $70 per square foot, depending on material, labor, dimensions/layout and the kitchen's location.
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.
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.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly countertop option, laminate countertops may be the way to go. Laminate costs less and offers a low-maintenance alternative to stone and other countertop options. Plus, you can choose a style of laminate that mimics more expensive surfaces.
How do you redo a countertop without replacing it? There are many options available on the modern market - wrap it with the interior film, DIY concrete one, paint it to look like marble, tile it, imitate terrazzo surface, etc.
Both materials are very durable and enhance interior designs and functionality, but which one costs less? Generally, quartz is less expensive than granite, but many factors influence the total price of a project.
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.
Painting your counters is a simple way to give your kitchen a quick makeover. Not only can countertop paint cover stains and scratches, but it's also highly customizable since you can choose the exact shade, color, and finish to pull off your dream kitchen makeover!
You can replace your kitchen countertops without replacing the cabinetry if they are still in good condition. By doing this, your kitchen gets a new look, and you save some money too!
The Condition of your Old Countertops
If you're old countertops are a neutral color and in decent condition, it may not make sense to replace them ahead of putting your home on the market. However, if the countertops look dated, are stained or are in poor general condition, they can be a deterrent to selling your home.
First, during tile installation, leave a small space between the tiles and the wood surface or countertop… no more than 1/8 of an inch.
We opted to skip grouting that 1/8″ space and instead, caulk that line between the countertop and the tile. Keeping this space is a must because as your house settles things may move around and you don't want your tile to crack.
Sheet vinyl is applied directly to any flat, clean and existing kitchen countertop. So if you have old, peeling laminate or scratched and stained solid surface counters, you can apply flexible sheet vinyl right on top.