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Joe

wrote:
We will be installing new countertops and after doing some
research regarding my options, I've found that different websites have
different information so I was hoping someone who has had actual
experience with these materials could help me.

Originally we wanted granite because I was under the impression it was
low-maintenance but the more I read, the more I am finding out it
stains easily. Is this true? I cook with olive oil a lot, and we have

kids who are constantly spilling juice etc.. Is granite not a good
option for me? Doesnt the seal protect the granite from stains? How
much does it cost to reseal and how often do you do this?

I'm also looking into silestone (there are other similar brands). I
understand that while it resembles granite a lot, it does not have the
same depth and gloss that granite would have. On the flip side, it
doesnt require the same maintenance and it is nonporous and wont stain.

It has a lot of the same hardness qualities of granite but the heat
resistance is less (I never put hot pans on the counter anyway).

Keep in mind that granite is an imperfect countertop material that
happens to be currently fashionable. If history is any indication,
something else will be more fashionable a few years from now, and
landfills will be awash in discarded granite conuntertops (and those
silly pedestal lavatories).
Common sense would dictate that if you like the look of granite (it can
be fairly pleasant) by all means get the Formica tops with a granite
pattern. Some of these look really sharp and cost way less than the
$50-70 per square foot that granite costs. With the money you save,
plus freedom from maintainance and damage you can book a cruise for you
and your main squeeze and still upgrade your appliance budget. Years
from now she'll appreciate a decent kitchen range more than a grungy
granite countertop.
Good luck.

Joe