Kitchen Countertops - Overlay

[txtxyeha]

Replacing the current countertops It's come down to traditional granite and an overlay product that can be granite or we're partial to a polished glass particles mixed with an epoxy. It's like a Corian countertop.

For our kitchen the Corian-like overlay probably makes the most sense, but I can't get over the fact that it costs the same as a mid-grade granite countertop. Am I being unrealistic by expecting this to cost 2/3 to 3/4s of granite?

 

[LITNIN HORN]

Some of the Corian countertops I've looked at cost more than granite.

 

[HornBud]

Corian, Granite, and Siletsone are all going to be similar in cost; anywhere from 35 - 75/square foot installed plus edging costs. Prices will vary depending on whether or not it's 2 cm or 3 cm thick, and the pricing on the colors.

Overlays should be significantly less expensive. They are not as durable as solid tops, and typically have plywood backing...just like a laminate and are subject to same of the same issues as laminate. I see no reason to pay the same price for an overlay as you would solid slab, as the whole reason to drop this kind of dough is that they will outlast the counters themselves.

Personally, I'd never own natural stone. It's just too porous, and the solid mixes from Silestone and Dupont are much more durable. Agreed it comes down to personal taste many times, as granite does look better much of the time. Problem again are just the pours in the surface, and I've heard about too many horror stories.

I would also stay away from Corian, it does not wear well over time, and at all cost would never have an integrated sink. I saw two of those things cracked at the garbage disposal. Sure, they'll fix it, but once you go through that installation, do you really want to do it again?

BTW, I spent 2 years of my life installing these things, so if you have any questions, hit me up.

 

[txtxyeha]

...

 

[txtxyeha]

Thanks, guys. Really appreciate the feedback.

The company we are talking to is Granite Transformations and the samples we have are 1/4" thick, and I get the impression there would be no plywood backing (tho HornBud you would know better than me). Suppose to be really durable and we like the look of one of their glass products.

Just can't help but think that I should enjoy a discount as compared to 3 cm granite. With this economy I could just say, "Call me when you drop the price another 15%" and see if the phone rings.

 

[HornBud]

Are you looking at the Trend Stone or the Trend Glass products? My initial feeling would be that while the glass product looks better, it won't be as resistant to heat and impact as the quartz product. I would also be concerned about it's repairability. Admittedly, I've never worked with it, so I don't know as much as about it.

My concern with their stone product is that they mention it is "lightweight". The stuff I worked with was anything but, so I'm wondering exactly what it is.

Have you looked into Silestone? Or Dupont's product? You can see Silestone at Home Depot, and Dupont's at Lowe's, it's probably worth a trip this weekend just so you can see it.

Samples usually are thinner, so I wouldn't put too much stock into that, it's just for color matching and selecting.

If I were in your shoes, I'd be looking for all the freebies I could get at this point. Free sink, free edging (bullnose is the most durable and incredibly easy to repair), free undermount, discount, whatever. You can get a deal.

Be sure and get an undermounted sink, they really are incredible looking and convenient. Just make sure it's stainless steel, undermounted cast iron sinks are ridiculous.

Aesthetically, full tile back splash looks amazing with stone. So you could save some dough by not getting the 4" stone (or glass) back splash, buying the tile and hardi-backer yourself and installing it, or finding someone on Craigslist to put it in for you.

 

[HornBud]

I just noticed that outfit is in Denver, is that where you are?

 

[txtxyeha]

We moved from G'town to Denver last summer. Thanks for all the great comments, for I feel a great deal more comfortable about the direction we are going on this project. With that being said all I really need to know what to do are say the following phrases:

"I agree, dear, that color would be great."
"No dear, that's not too much money for your kitchen."
"That color would be great too."
"I can see how you think that style works with our appliances"
"No, I don't think it too important that the countertop matches our appliances"
"You know, that's the one I wanted when we first started looking, but I didn't want to prejudice your choice."
"I'm really happy we spent the time we did over the last 15 weekends on this - you can't be too sure."

 

[accuratehorn]

I can see that txtxyeha has learned many valuable lessons about marital relationships through this experience.

 

[HornBud]

txt, the guy I use to work with is now managing an install shop in that area. I'd be happy to direct you towards him if you're not set on where you're purchasing yet.