[Shop-talk] Alternative kitchen countertops?

[Peter J. Thomas]

On 1/30/2013 8:00 PM, Jim Franklin wrote:
> Still reeling from the price of granite/soapstone/etc, I was researching
> alternatives. I already have an apron-front sink, which acts like an
> undermount but actually is supported on the sides at the bottom, instead of
> being clamped to the counter underside. Still, I can't really use laminate
> unless I work at waterproofing the edge where the sink is. This isn't a
> forever counter, so it is a possibility.
>
> One material that struck my eye was phenolic resin. I'd need to cut out the
> sink hole; is it easily worked with carbide blades or is it a pain?
>
> Concrete is out, way too much work.
>
> There's too much wood in the kitchen already for butcher block.
>
> Any other reasonably priced alternatives you've used (or heard of)?
>
> thanks,

Redid our counters with granite floor tiles.  Was two decades ago when 
tiles were cheaper.  We found a bargain on a nice tiles under 4$ a 
square foot.  Prices are higher now but shopping around you might find 
some bargains.  Put down 3/4 plywood and layer of cement board set in 
mortar.  Bought a cheap tile saw (< $100) and ripped strips for the edge 
and laid the tiles on top.  I used a narrow gap and grout that closely 
matched the tiles.  Also deliberately choose a fine grain granite so the 
tiles would not stand out.  Sealed there hasn't be much grout staining 
except around the coffee maker and bleach does a good cleaning that.  A 
modest kitchen, about 22 linear feet including and island, was under $700.


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