Best prices on countertops...any ideas?

[Scarpozzi]

I'm wanting to renovate my kitchen and put in some new countertops and add some base cabinets, etc... I went to lowes and realized that they only have 3 choices for materials....basically it's laminate, corian, or granite. Laminate is the cheapest, but I would like to put in higher quality stuff to make my house more livable...Is lowes the cheapest place to go for this kind of stuff or should I try going through a kitchen renovation shop of some sort? Just wondering if anyone has any experience or expertise...Thanks,

-Scar

 

[Ausm]

Granite! if you can afford it


Ausm

 

[Tylanner]

BLUESTONE!

 

[dullard]

There is always tile if you like it. Or wood, stainless steel, etc.

I recently tore out old laminate and put in new laminate. The new stuff is wonderful. It looks just like granite, but it was 1/20th the cost. Rounded edges eliminate the pain from a corner gouging your arms. I'm quite pleased.

 

[CalvinHobbes]

They do make some really nice laminates. We got a counter for our bar that looks just like granite. The backsplash is built in and it curves to the backsplash, not a right angle.

 

[zixxer]

Personally I believe I'll end up going with tile since it's something I can do myself somewhat easily and very cheaply.


My countertops consist of only straight pieces (i.e. an easy DIY installation for granite) but I've found that the market for granite is designed such that you can only buy it if you're an installer. It's really odd. Even though I only need small pieces (200-300lbs at very most) that are straight - noone will sell it to me. I have to have a 'license'. The entire thing was very aggravating.


Also, ikea has butcher block countertops that imo look nice - I would worry about mold/mildew though

 

[Scarpozzi]

Granite is really nice, but you must seal it yearly from what I've been told. Also, even with sealant, it can stain from prolonged water exposure. So around a sink, you need to keep some paper towels.

It just made me wonder if Corian was a better material since it isn't pourous, can be repaired, slightly cheaper, etc... I just don't know how I feel about the plastic feeling that some of it gives. I need to see more floor models I guess...