Glass Kitchen Countertops

Costs
Durability
History
Maintenance

Pictures
Popular Kitchen Remodeling Topics
Pros and Cons
Questions and Answers

References
Related Articles

With the eco-conscious movement in full swing, it’s no wonder the remodeling world has taken a liking for glass kitchen countertops. Many homeowners today are stepping out of the granite-only box with an eco-friendly glass countertop. Here are the facts.

Costs

Although the cost of glass kitchen countertops will vary depending on the materials used and the contractor doing the work, you can expect to pay $85-$150 per square foot installed. Find out what it would cost for your own home here.

Pictures

Pros

Glass is an extremely eco-friendly countertop option, especially if it contains recycled products or post-consumer materials.

Comes in a variety of styles and colors.

Surprisingly durable when used in this fashion, and won’t damage easily.

Cons

Certain glass countertop styles can be rather expensive to achieve.

Its distinctive look can be a bit much for an entire kitchen countertop.

If not sealed properly, glass can be susceptible to stains.

Durability

Don’t let the glass deceive you—these types of countertops are actually pretty durable. Vetrazzo recycled glass countertops, for instance, are supposed to be as strong and durable as granite. In addition, it is resistant to stains, heat damage, and won’t break or scratch easily.

Maintenance

The one great thing about glass is how easy it is to clean. Simply wipe down the countertops with glass cleaner or mild soap and water and they will look just like new.

Common Questions and Answers

Can glass kitchen countertops be installed as a DIY project?

While many people have installed a glass backsplash without hiring a professional, an entire kitchen countertop is a huge job to tackle if you don’t have the experience. Contact a professional first, see what they charge and how they would go about installing, and then make an educated decision based on your own skills.

History

Recycled glass countertops were invented by glass scientist and PhD student Don McPherson in Berkeley in 1996. He was the first person to combine recycled glass with a cement binder to create a sturdy surface.