Not Granite, Not Quartz: This Eco-Friendly Countertop Material Won't Break The Bank

Granite and quartz have long been popular choices for kitchen and bathroom countertops. However, there are pros and cons of both materials. One of the main drawbacks is the cost. You can expect to pay anywhere from $40 to $100 per square foot for granite and $50 to $200 per square foot for quartz. There's another option that you may not have considered that is eco-friendly and relatively affordable at between $30 and $80 per square foot. It's recycled aluminum, and its appearance is probably not what you're expecting.

Before we go any further, it's worth pointing out that none of these materials are suitable for DIY installation, so you'll need to add between $10 and $30 per square foot for labor. The complexity of your design will have a major impact, so it's a good idea to get at least a couple of quotes.

So what is a recycled aluminum countertop? Well, it isn't a big slab of reflective metal like a stainless steel countertop. It's actually composed of aluminum shavings set in acrylic resin. The resulting appearance is often similar to quartz. The size of the shavings can vary, as can the colors, resulting in a wide range of finishes that will suit a many kitchen styles and unique bathroom design ideas.

Recycled aluminum countertops are environmentally friendly for several reasons. The metal shavings come from up to 97% scrap, no VOCs (volatile organic compounds) are used in its production, and it's one of a number of countertop materials that can be recycled when its useful life is over.

Although recycled aluminum countertops offer great durability and stain resistance, the heat resistance of the acrylic resin is modest, so a trivet or protective mat should be used. Although hard-wearing, the surface can be scratched or dented, and serious damage would require professional repair. Mild, non-abrasive cleaners should be used, and harsh chemicals avoided.

All countertops need some level of care. Granite will stain if not sealed, for example. Quartz can crack if you place a hot pan directly onto it. Recycled aluminum is less expensive than either of them, often mistaken for quartz in terms of appearance, and is one of the most sustainable choices available. It's certainly worth a closer look next time you want to remodel your kitchen or bathroom.