There are many new products on the market that are now competing with granite
for the most popular "high end" countertop material. These products compare favorably when it comes to durability,
appearance and stain resistance.
Shirestone
Shirestone is a custom
made product with the look and feel of slate or natural stone. It is an extremely durable product that is poured on the job
which allows for custom applications and a seamless countertop surface. This product is similar to decorative concrete in
that it may be stamped with various textures and designs even though the product is much lighter than concrete. It also dries
to a more natural look than concrete.
Shirestone is great for new construction as well as remodeling products
as it can be poured over formica, tile and almost all other surfaces you might "encounter", saving both time and
money. The product is sealed once it has dried and can be resealed when necessary.
It is competitive with granite and comes with various options for color, texture, design and accents. It was developed
in Nixa, Missouri by Matt Jecker and is now available nationwide.
Surface
Fabrication Mg. Top 25 Materials of 2006 - Ranked #3
Corian
Corian also comes in a wide variety of colors however it doesn't
capture the look of true stone as well as some of the other options. It is less resistant to wear and tear than granite, but
it can be refinished. It is similar to granite in price and will not stain. With proper care, Corian can last forever. It
is mold/bacteria resistant and can be fitted together so that the sinks, backsplash and countertop give a single solid appearance.
Stainless Steel
Stainless Steel became popular a few years ago in kitchen appliances, now this appeal has spread
to countertops as well. The advantages are its durability and maintenance free aspects. The main disadvantage is cost (1 1/2
times more expensive than granite), and that the design options are more limited. Steel is not traditionally used in bungalow
style homes or in traditional kitchens. Another downside to stainless steel countertops is that stainless steel can become
scratched and eventually these scratches become part of the look. This would be a thing you'd have to get comfortable
with when choosing a stainless steel countertop.
Zodiaq
Made up mostly of quartz, Zodiaq looks and feels like granite yet this Dupont product is more stain resistant and
requires slightly less maintenance. It is not scratch and heat proof, but it comes close and resists these potential problems
as well. It doesn't require sealant but it can fade gradually over time.
Silestone
Like
Zodiaq, Silestone is also made up of 93% quartz. It matches engineered stone in strength, color consistency and resistance.
It maintains natural shine well over time and can withstand extreme heat. Quartz exceeds most other materials in hardness.
Only diamonds, sapphire and topaz are harder. It requires no sealant because it has glues and sealants combined within making
it non porous and stain-resistant. It also retards bacteria growth well.
Silestone
compares to granite in price, but lacks the individual character of natural occurring stone.
