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Alternatives to Granite: Stylish Countertops That Won’t Break the Bank

December 11, 2025 by DRT Laminating Staff
Alternatives to Granite: Stylish Countertops That Won’t Break the Bank

Why people are moving away from granite

Granite may be beautiful, but it’s not always practical:
✔ Expensive to buy and install
✔ Requires sealing and ongoing maintenance
✔ Heavy and sometimes tricky to fit into existing kitchens
✔ Limited flexibility in design and edge profiles

With these drawbacks, many homeowners and designers are choosing affordable alternatives that don’t compromise on style or durability.

What people are using instead of granite

1. Laminate Countertops

Laminate has made a big comeback in recent years. Modern laminate kitchen tops:
✔ Mimic the look of stone, wood, or marble at a fraction of the cost
✔ Are low-maintenance and easy to clean
✔ Come in a variety of finishes (bullnose, squareline, flat-pressed)
✔ Are lighter and easier to install

At DRT Laminating, our custom laminate countertops are one of the most popular choices for homeowners who want an updated look without granite’s price tag.

2. Wooden Countertops

Luxury rustic kitchen with custom wooden cabinetry, live-edge wood countertops and marble backsplash from DRT Laminating South Africa

For a warm, natural touch, wooden kitchen tops are a timeless option. They:
✔ Add character and rustic charm
✔ Work well in both modern and classic kitchens
✔ Can be paired with other countertop surfaces for a unique design

3. Engineered Stone

Black soapstone kitchen countertop with wooden cutting board on white cabinetry in modern kitchen

Engineered quartz and similar materials offer durability and style with fewer maintenance requirements than granite. Though more costly than laminate, they’re still often more affordable than natural granite slabs.

4. Postform Tops

Luxury black kitchen countertop and island with fresh vegetables, subway tile backsplash and dark cabinetry by DRT Laminating South Africa

Postform countertops are an excellent budget-friendly choice. With rounded or squareline edges, they give kitchens a sleek, modern look while keeping costs down.

The DRT Laminating Advantage

When you choose DRT Laminating, you’re not just getting a countertop—you’re getting:
✔ Custom sizing to fit your exact kitchen layout
✔ A wide range of finishes, from modern minimalist to warm and rustic
✔ Durable, high-quality manufacturing built to last
✔ Local expertise and convenient delivery across Johannesburg

Whether you’re after the practical elegance of laminate or the timeless appeal of wood, DRT Laminating has the perfect alternative to granite for your project.

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DRT Laminating Areas Served

Benoni, South Africa , Soweto, South Africa , Gauteng, South Africa , Midrand, South Africa , Sandton, South Africa , Roodepoort, South Africa , Randburg, South Africa , Centurion, South Africa , Boksburg, South Africa , Alberton, South Africa , Hartbeespoort, South Africa , Bronkhorstspruit, South Africa , Meyerton, South Africa , Pretoria, South Africa , Johannesburg, South Africa , Kempton Park, South Africa , Germiston, South Africa , Johannesburg South, South Africa , Krugersdorp, South Africa , Edenvale, South Africa

Frequently Asked Questions

Why don’t people use granite anymore?
Granite is costly, heavy, and requires ongoing maintenance, which doesn’t always fit modern budgets and lifestyles.
What are people using instead of granite?
Laminate countertops, wooden tops, engineered stone, and postform tops are popular choices.
Are laminate countertops durable?
Yes, modern laminate is highly durable, scratch-resistant, and designed for everyday kitchen use.
Which countertop is the most affordable?
Laminate and postform countertops are usually the most budget-friendly while still offering style.
Do alternatives to granite look stylish?
Absolutely! Many laminate finishes replicate the look of granite, marble, or wood, giving you style without the cost.