6 Countertop Materials You've Never Considered

6 Countertop Materials You've Never Considered
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The kitchen has replaced the living room and dining room as the central gathering place in many American homes. As you contemplate a kitchen remodel or update, consider these six up-and-coming countertop materials.

Photo courtesy of Castle Rock Finishing, LLC in Lubbock, TX


Butcher Block

Butcher block is cheaper than marble or granite and adds a burst of warmth to any kitchen. It's important to note that butcher block does
and is susceptible to stains, scratches and burns. But, with regular oiling, you can keep it looking nice.
Photo courtesy of DomestiKitchens in Nashua, NH

Soapstone

An excellent countertop for light-colored or traditionally designed kitchens is soapstone. Soapstone is easier to maintain than marble, but still requires more maintenance than granite. You can learn all about the costs and features of soapstone
.
Photo courtesy of Creekside Homes, Inc. in McMinnville, OR


Concrete

If you want kitchen countertops with a touch of raw elegance, concrete may be your best choice. Concrete countertops come in a variety of specified thicknesses and finishes, making them highly customizable.


Alkemi

For homeowners interested in reducing the carbon footprint of their home, installing an eco-friendly kitchen countertop is a great place to start. Alkemi consists of curled shavings of scrap aluminum embedded in resin. You can even have a cast or polished finish for a larger variety of looks.


Fireclay Tiles

Fireclay consists of cracked glass set in tile pieces. Fireclay is available in numerous shapes and sizes, allowing you to create the perfect pattern for your home's decor.

EnviroGlas

EnviroGlas is a precast material that's usually made of crushed marble, quartz, granite or glass. Enviroglass lets you enjoy all of the benefits of a smooth surface, with the added brilliance of its reflective materials.


Conclusion

If you're willing to think outside the box, you'll find a variety of countertops beyond the common materials found in most homes today.

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