Granite is one of the most famous natural stones and the top choice for most homeowners for their kitchen countertops because of its elegant and clean look. However, granite countertops can be expensive and may not be the best choice for homeowners with a strict budget.
If you are eagerly looking for the best countertop alternatives to granite, then you are at the right place. There can be various reasons that force you to look for the best countertop other than granite. Durability is of utmost importance if you have a family and children. Caesarstone also has a detailed article on the best countertop material for kitchens.
You may want to invest in a countertop that is durable and scratch-resistant. You may also want to consider the aesthetic appeal of a material. Another reason to choose countertops other than granite is the price. In this article, you will know the 11 best countertop alternatives to granite.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are engineered stone countertops famous among homeowners because of their durability and low maintenance cost. Quartz countertops offer a wide range of color options you choose for your countertop.
The non-porous nature of quartz countertops makes them reliable and resistant to stains. However, keep in mind that excessive heat can damage the quartz countertop. Installation of quartz countertops requires expert hands, so make sure to hire professionals for that job.
Marble Countertops
Marble countertops are another great alternative to granite because of their captivating look and durability. They are perfect for classic and modern kitchens. Marble countertops are heat resistant, but you should practice safety precautions to maintain the beautiful look of marble. Marble countertops are porous, which means they have tiny pores that make them vulnerable to stains.
Upon installation, proper sealing of the marble surface is mandatory to protect against stains and the liquid seeping into the surface. The maintenance cost of marble countertops is high. Marble countertops are usually expensive, but the actual cost of marble countertops depends on the type and design of marble.
Quartzite Countertops
Some folks get confused because of the names of quartz and quartzite. You can read the comparison of quartz and quartzite countertops at Caesarstone. Quartzite countertops are made of natural stone material and are different from quartz countertops. The natural beauty of quartzite and their resemblance with marble make them perfect for kitchen countertops.
Quartzite countertops are non-porous and stain-resistant, making them better than granite and marble. However, keep in mind that some types of quartzite countertops are porous and vulnerable to stains.
Resealing the quartzite countertop surface two times a year is required. Quartzite countertops are also resistant to heat. However, avoid placing extremely hot objects on the surface of the countertop. Unlike granite and marble, quartzite countertops have limited color and design options.
Slate Countertops
Slate countertops are durable, which usually come in elegant dark black and gray colors. Slate countertops are resistant to heat. The surface of the slate countertop is less porous than the granite countertop. They are more affordable than granite countertops. Slate is the best countertop alternative to granite for you, especially if you are looking for dark color for your countertops.
Limestone Countertops
Another best countertop alternative to granite is limestone countertops, which are perfect for homeowners who are looking for light colors for their countertops. Limestone countertops are heat resistant. The natural classic and luxurious appearance of limestone countertops makes them suitable for modern and traditional kitchens.
Limestone countertops require extreme care because they are very porous and can be stained and scratched easily in case of improper care. The maintenance cost of limestone countertops is also high.
Soapstone Countertops
Soapstone countertops are natural stone material, but it has some different properties compared to natural stone countertops. However, soapstone countertops are not as durable as granite. But unlike natural stone countertops, they have non-porous nature, which means they are more resistant to stains than natural stone countertops.
The natural beauty of soapstone countertops gives them a unique and charming look. Soap countertops have limited colors and design options. Usually, they come in white, grey, and black shades.
Onyx Countertops
Onyx is a natural stone. The porous and soft nature of onyx countertops makes them vulnerable to stains and stretches. However, the unique thing about onyx countertops that encourage homeowners to have onyx countertops is their catchy, rare, and dramatic look.
Maintaining the gorgeous look of the onyx countertop requires regular maintenance and care. The maintenance cost of onyx countertops is high. In case of proper maintenance and careful use of onyx countertops, they can last up to ten decades. Onyx countertops are one of the most expensive natural stone countertops due to their rare and natural look.
Gemstone countertops
Gemstone countertops are semi-precious gemstone materials that give them a unique and enchanting appearance. The non-porous nature of gemstone countertops makes them durable from stains and scratches. The beauty and durability of gemstone countertops make them the best countertop alternative to granite. There is a wide range of gemstone countertops like Agate, Blue Agate, Brown Agate, Malachite, etc. However, the downside of gemstone countertops is their high cost.
Travertine countertops
If you’re looking to remodel your kitchen, travertine countertops are a great choice. Although travertine is naturally white, it can be stained and needs special sealing to maintain a fresh look. To keep up the beauty of a terrazzo countertop, you’ll want to research the material, talk to natural stone experts, and get quotes from different vendors.
While travertine countertops are highly durable and easy to clean, it’s best to avoid acidic substances. It’s good to seal travertine countertops to prevent them from absorbing the acids. Don’t use steel, wool, or abrasive cleaners to clean the travertine countertops. They can damage the natural beauty of the material.
Glass Countertops
There are several types of glass countertops. These countertops are made from 100% recycled glass and bound with cement and petroleum-based binder.
Recycled glass countertops are the best choice for homes because they contain a high percentage of recycled materials. This type of countertop is the greenest choice. This type of recycled glass is eco-friendly and comes in a variety of colors. It is also available in a variety of designs, including a circular pattern.
Concrete Countertops
If you are looking for a new countertop to upgrade your kitchen, you should consider a concrete countertop. A concrete countertop is one of the hottest trends in the home-improvement industry. These types of countertops are durable and inexpensive. In addition to their durability, concrete countertops are also extremely easy to install.
Conclusion
In this guide, you have known the 11 best countertop alternatives to granite. However, keep in mind that the countertop alternatives to granite given above have their pros and cons like cost, durability, maintenance, appearance, etc. So, make sure to consult with countertop professionals before finalizing the countertops for your kitchen or bath.
