Would Countertop Covers Really Make a Difference?

Freshly installed countertops can breathe new life into kitchens and bathrooms, adding beauty and functionality to these spaces. However, they require a significant investment. 

If you don’t want to commit to a countertop remodel at the moment but want to give your countertops a new look, consider countertop covers. These are lower-cost and nonpermanent, making them an ideal option if countertop replacement is over your budget or if you live in a rental. 

Explore our complete guide to countertop covers, their types, and uses below.

What Are Countertop Covers? 

Countertop covers do precisely what their name suggests they do: they go over existing countertops to conceal damage and give them a fresh appearance.  

They’re a fantastic way to update your kitchen or bathroom’s aesthetic without the expense and hassle of a complete countertop overhaul. They’re ideal for rentals, where making significant changes to the space is impossible. Additionally, they’re a good choice for spare bathrooms and other low-traffic areas.

9 Types of Countertop Covers

While countertop covers come in many shapes and sizes, their styles can be categorized into several distinct types. These include the following: 

1. Wood

This is a great countertop cover in the right scenarios, but choosing the right kind of wood is essential. For instance, non-porous hardwood is an excellent option for kitchens, as this material helps to repel bacteria naturally. It also resists warping from regular exposure to heat and moisture. 

Meanwhile, in moist environments like bathrooms with showers, a better option would be bamboo plywood or a non-wood, water-resistant material. Remember that material installed in an environment it’s not suited for could succumb to warping and swelling caused by excessive or constant moisture. 

2. Modular Granite Covers

These are a budget-friendly alternative to granite countertops. Module granite covers are made of real granite countertop material, only much thinner. They’re designed to mimic the appearance of real granite countertops without the expense and weight. 

3. Laminate

This countertop cover comprises layers of resins and kraft paper pressed together and heated to create a durable and resilient surface. Laminate is affordable, making it an ideal, short-term solution for those who want new countertops but are limited by their budget. 

If you currently have laminate countertops, you can easily breathe new life into them by covering them with new laminate. You can even install laminate countertop covers yourself. Simply purchase a countertop refinishing kit and follow the instructions on the package. 

DIY countertop refinishing kits contain stone chips and epoxy to look like other, pricier materials like quartz, terrazzo, granite and marble. They are straightforward to install on laminate and deliver attractive results. 

4. Tile

Tile is a popular countertop cover material, especially for bathrooms. This is because tile countertop covers are highly resistant to moisture and high temperatures. Additionally, they are easy to clean and available in various shapes, sizes and colors. 

5. Concrete

Modern and visually appealing skimmed concrete countertops offer a stylish solution. However, they are not the most durable option out there. Additionally, installing them can be pretty challenging. However, the results are well worth the effort if you have the skills and the time. 

6. Countertop Film

Thin and paper-like, this type of countertop cover adds a layer of protection over your countertops. While it works well as a short-term solution for damaged or unattractive counters, they are not recommended for extended use. Additionally, it can be surprisingly challenging to install.

7. Spray Paint

Suitable for creative homeowners, this budget-friendly option requires extensive work but can yield a visually pleasing result, especially on laminate or wood countertops that can be sanded. If applied correctly, spray paint can look even better than rolled-on paint. 

8. Peel-and-Stick

This is like wallpaper for countertops. Peel and stick covers are thin and don’t offer much in the way of durability and longevity. However, they’re affordable and reasonably attractive.  Think of them as a temporary touch-up, not a lasting solution.

9. Overlays

Cost-effective, durable and stylish, a countertop overlay like Transform by Caesarstone are a popular option. Caesarstone’s quartz countertop cover, composed of a thin layer of quartz, offers a premium look and feel at an affordable price. Additionally, installing a quartz countertop cover takes less time than full countertops. 

Another benefit of quartz overlay countertops is durability. For instance, Caesarstone’s quartz countertop cover is resistant to scratches, stains, cracks, mold, and mildew. 

Why Opt for Countertop Covers? 

Countertop replacements are costly and time-consuming. Additionally, they are likely not a realistic option if you’re on a budget or renting. 

Countertop covers are an excellent alternative because of their significantly smaller price tag. Additionally, some options, like peel-and-stick, can be easily removed. This allows you to be creative and experiment with different colors and patterns. 

However, it’s important to note that countertop covers can be challenging to install correctly. Without experience or the right tools, achieving seamless and durable results can be tricky, and you risk damaging your existing countertops. 

Additional Considerations  

When choosing between countertop covers and countertop replacements, consider environmental factors. For instance, high-traffic areas like main bathrooms and kitchens require more durable and long-lasting solutions that can withstand wear and tear, like a quartz countertop overlay. Meanwhile, less resilient options like peel-and-stick might be good enough for places that don’t see much activity, such as guest bathrooms and basement bars. 

Other factors to consider are the humidity and heat in the space. Remember that some covers could separate from the countertop surface, crack or warp when exposed to heat and moisture for prolonged periods. 

Final Thoughts 

Countertop covers can be a great solution if you research the right materials for your project and ensure they’re installed correctly. However, hastily deciding on countertop covers could cost you more in replacements and repairs if they get damaged due to environmental factors.  As with any home improvement project, informed decision-making is key. 

Before starting a DIY countertop improvement project, do plenty of research. By putting in the work, you can achieve stunning countertops at a fraction of the cost of natural stone countertops. 

Related Questions 

Are Peel-and-Stick Countertop Covers Worth Getting? 

The answer depends on your situation. For those on a budget or in rental spaces, countertop covers provide an excellent way to infuse personality into a home. However, if budget constraints aren’t an issue, you’d be better off with more durable options that last longer and give you more value for your money. 

What Advantages Do Countertop Covers Offer?

• Countertop covers are more affordable than total replacements. 
• You don’t have to dispose of your existing countertops. 
• You can avoid the mess and disruption of renovations or demolitions.
• You can install countertop covers yourself. 

Do Countertop Covers Damage the Existing Counter? 

It depends on the type. Peel-and-stick covers generally won’t harm the underlying surface, but materials like concrete pour-over can damage existing counters.

Breathe New Life Into Your Kitchen and Bathroom With Caesarstone Surfaces

Caesarstone is the premier source of industry-leading surfaces. We offer a selection of curated designs and colors to meet your home renovation or remodeling needs. Check out our selection of colors and order samples today!