We are newlyweds and recently closed on our first starter home in California. We don’t have much cash to remodel our kitchen, which needs it desperately. We would love to invest in a granite countertop, but unfortunately, it’s not in the budget right now. Instead, we would like to have a “granite look-alike” but want to stay away from laminate or anything cheap looking. Are there inexpensive alternatives to granite that hold up as well, and look like granite? For example, are there any concrete products that are made to look like granite countertops?
Cindy R. ~ Yuba City, California
Stay away from concrete counter tops, unless you hire a contractor that really knows what they are doing. My concrete countertops are cracked and looked like heck, and they are only 1 year old.
This is a common question.
My advise would be to go directly to a discount cabinet supplier. They always seem to ahve a load of CHEAP price granite tops. These tops are pre-made in China and do not have the hole cut for a kitchen sink. They will refer you to a granite cutter who will cut the sink hole for you. Typically they will cut and install the counter top for a great price.
There are some wonderful engineered quartz materials (Silestone, Chroma by Pental, Radianz by Samsung, Zodiaq by Dupont). These products usually carry a warranty any where from 10 to 15 years. They are heat resistant, stain resistant, and scratch resistant. The maintain beauty without having to be resealed. The come in some very beautiful colors and can really enhance a home.
Some granite can come in “economy” pricing and you could still put granite in your home for a reasonable price. Check with several general contractors to see who they use as a sub-contractor for countertops. Visit a couple of them, taking detailed measurements and drawings of your kitchen lay out and ask for bids. Ask for bids in engineered quartz too. You might be surprised.
Pre-fabricated granite usually comes from China. Be sure to check quality, as it is often not the best. If it comes with a pre-fabricated bullnose edge, look for seam right in the front of the bullnose. This is not quality work. While a cheap alternative, and still granite, it will be noticeable to others too.
Choosing details could save you money as well. Doing a self rimming sink verses an undermount sink will leave more in your pocket. A simple single polished edge will give beauty to your granite and home and be less expensive than a bullnose or ogee edge. Choosing a tile backsplash instead of granite will also save a few bucks and give an updated look with new life to an old kitchen.
Another alternative could be to use granite tile, usually available at discount hardware stores or discount tile stores or even through stone fabricators. You could save money by doing the tiling and grouting yourself.
Good Luck, Have Fun, and Congratulations on being Newlyweds and purchasing a new home!
I am looking to put a new top on the basement bar. Would granite be a good choice or any suggestions for others would be greatly appreciated.