Pros and Cons of Crushed Glass Countertops

Green Recycled Glass Countertop

Green Recycled Glass Countertop

Crushed glass countertops are fairly new to the market, but they have caught on quickly. Their eye-catching good looks and ecofriendly resume are just two of the reasons they are being considered by more homeowners every year.  There are two basic options for crushed glass countertops. The glass can be encased in a tough, durable and clear acrylic or embedded in concrete. Every countertop produced by either method is a true original!

Here’s a look at the strengths and weaknesses of crushed glass countertops so you can evaluate them for use in your home. See our other Pros and Cons articles to learn more about granite, slate, concrete and other countertop types.

Reasons to Consider Crushed Glass Countertops

The unique beauty of a crushed glass countertop is one of the main reasons homeowners choose them. Because a diverse blend of glass is used in each one, and the glass is always configured differently, no two crushed glass countertops are the same. Differing colors and blends of colors are used to create the desired effect. Depending on the colors used, glass countertops can look quite traditional—picture a tiffany lamp broken up and embedded in acrylic – or very contemporary.

Those using acrylic give the appearance of glass fragments afloat in liquid glass. Those that embed glass in concrete has something of a mosaic look. Some homeowners backlight acrylic and glass countertops to heighten the impression they make.

Both types are very tough and durable, especially the acrylic countertops. They won’t easily chip. Both types are also very easy to clean since the glass and acrylic is non-porous. Those employing concrete should be sealed to, in order to make the little concrete that shows stain-resistant.

Many crushed glass countertops can also be called recycled glass countertops. Some use up to 80% or more recycled glass, and this makes them a very ecofriendly product for any home.

Reasons to be Cautious about Crushed Glass Countertops

While reasonably strong, if a lot of weight is placed on a corner, it might crack. Secondly, foods with a high acid content such as tomato that are left standing on the countertop, or harsh cleaners not fully removed can mar the acrylic surface. A bit of care will prevent this from occurring. Crushed glass countertops are fairly expensive at $50-$100 per square foot, but most actually cost less than granite, quartz, concrete, slate, marble or a few other high-end options.

Summary

If you’ve been searching for the right countertops and nothing has grabbed your fancy yet, have a look at crushed glass. It adds a splash of color to any kitchen that, depending on the colors used, can range from very bright to more subdued and rich. With good durability and functionality, and a unique appearance, they might be just what you have been waiting to discover.

2 Responses

  1. Nice to find some decent content for once, I reaaly am getting tired of the constant drivel I find lately, thanks.
  2. Cac
    Nice kitchen! In fact, the whole apnaemtrt looks great, even with the boxes. Once you've got everything unpacked, I think you'll be really glad you made the move.