When it comes to selecting a countertop material, there are various factors to consider such as versatility, price, lifespan, and maintenance requirements. For many homeowners, sustainability is a key consideration in this decision-making process. Eco-friendly countertops not only help in conserving natural resources but also tend to be more durable and pose fewer health risks compared to other options. If you are looking for a sustainable choice, PaperStone could be the perfect fit. This countertop material offers a range of benefits beyond just being environmentally friendly.
PaperStone is a company that specializes in paper composite countertops. These countertops are crafted from a mixture of recycled paper and resin, making them suitable for both residential and commercial applications. The manufacturing process involves pressing recycled paper and cardboard together with resin to create a material that resembles stone. Even the resin used in PaperStone countertops is derived from repurposed by-products, further enhancing their eco-friendly credentials.
The Pros of Choosing PaperStone Countertops
PaperStone countertops come with unique perks that make them stand out from other materials. The manufacturer claims that the countertops' strength is steel-like, yet they can be shaped like hardwood. Additionally, PaperStone® is certified to Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) standards. This certification is earned by products that use materials derived from responsibly managed forests, according to FSC. The phenolic resins that PaperStone uses are scratch-resistant, making these countertops more durable. The company also states that the material will not be damaged by water and is resistant to stains.
Finally, paper composite countertops cost about $45 to $70 per square foot. For reference, marble countertops cost around $40 to $100 per square foot. As you can see in the TikTok video posted by @ouroldhouse, you can customize and install the countertops yourself if you have woodworking skills, as the content creator was able to cut the material to size with woodworking tools.
The Cons of Opting for PaperStone Countertops
While PaperStone countertops have many benefits, there are also some downsides to consider. One of the main drawbacks is that PaperStone is not heat resistant and can be damaged by hot pans or pots placed directly on the surface. Additionally, the material can scratch easily, so it is essential to use cutting boards and avoid dragging heavy or sharp objects across the countertop. PaperStone countertops also require regular maintenance with oiling to maintain their appearance and prevent drying out over time.
When considering PaperStone countertops for your home, it's important to be aware of a few potential drawbacks. Firstly, these countertops will evolve in appearance over time, with areas of higher use developing a more polished look. The overall surface will also take on a softer appearance as it ages, akin to the natural aging process of wood.
Additionally, due to being crafted from natural materials rather than synthetic ones, PaperStone countertops can exhibit variations in color and pattern from one section to another. These tonal differences may continue to change with time. If you prefer a consistent and uniform look in your countertops, you may want to explore alternative materials that align better with your aesthetic preferences.
