13 Awesome Countertops That Aren’t Granite

If you haven't heard about the latest rage in countertops, this is it. Quartz is a highly durable countertop that is an engineered stone, made from a mix of real quartz and rock-solid binders that make it the new face of kitchen luxury. And homeowners love the versatility it provides. It comes in both veined and non-veined varieties, which will cover any kitchen style.

Once the domain of industrial kitchens across the globe, stainless steel countertop is a chic option for a residential kitchen that sees a lot of action (and it's great for backsplashes too). Lightweight and hygienic, stainless steel is a breeze to do food prep on and even easier to clean. Bonus: These are the best countertop paint and refinishing kits to keep your countertops updated.

Whether you have solid-surface countertops installed professionally or install them yourself, you'll enjoy an immediate boost to your home's value through this smart upgrade. Non-toxic, low-VOC and non-porous, solid-surface countertops are a great looking option for even the toughest wear and tear. Endlessly customizable and easy to clean, there's no doubt as to why it's one of the hottest options out there.

The long-favored material of butchers and bar owners, wood is right at home in any residential kitchen or bathroom. Wood countertops, particularly the thick butcher-block style, are a great addition to remodeled kitchens and require minimal maintenance. While scratches in laminate and natural stone can be difficult to repair, wood can be sanded and refinished as necessary making it a long-lasting, inexpensive solution.

If you don't think concrete has any business as countertops, check out our gorgeous concrete table top, which just may change your mind. While concrete does require some sealing and maintenance, a little bit of attention will go a long way to ensuring this countertop choice stands the test of time.

Don't overlook laminate as a viable alternative to granite. Easy to install yourself, today's laminate is durable, strong and looks so good, you'll have trouble telling it apart from its natural competitors.

There are loads of eco-friendly cheap kitchen countertops alternatives you can incorporate into your home, but have you considered recycled glass countertops? These countertops are literally glistening. And because they are created with a powerful binding agent, they never require sealing, making them a great easy-maintenance choice.

White marble durable countertops are a hot home trend that's showing no signs of slowing down, given its ability to coordinate with almost every color of cabinet and flooring. And whether you choose a gray-veined marble in a honed finish or a heavily veined marble in classic high-gloss, you'll easily find a marble countertop to meet your needs.

Recycled paper is blended with a hard polymer resin to create a beautiful, earthy surface that comes in a variety of colors and finishes. Plus: How to Install a Vessel Sink Photo: Courtesy of PaperStone Products

Warmer than stainless steel, zinc countertops are bonded to a wood or medium-density fiberboard (MDF) substrate and provide a patina and finish that changes over time. And what makes zinc unique, is the endless edging options available, from industrial rivets to Victorian molding. All you need is the perfect scribing technique to ensure your countertops have the perfect fit.

Though slightly softer than other natural stone, soapstone provides a rustic patina that ages well and can be a long-lasting countertop solution for a home. And one of the advantages of soapstone is its bacteria resistance, making it a hygienic choice for a busy kitchen. It's also a cheaper alternative to granite.

Tile countertops are a trend that is back and updated in a big way. It's a cheaper alternative to granite, while also providing nearly endless options for color and pattern. And installing tile countertops yourself is a budget-friendly way to add the charm of stone for a fraction of the price. So consider a tile-topped island with solid surface perimeter countertops for a modern feel.

For a non-toxic, eco-friendly and completely customizable option for countertops, consider poured epoxy. The application is similar to applying epoxy flooring in your garage floor, and the result is a countertop that is durable, heat resistant and FDA food-safe.