Emporia
Emporia Classic Level 2 48 AMP EV Charger UL Listed
The Emporia Classic Level 2 48 AMP EV Charger UL Listed is a home charging solution designed for electric vehicle owners seeking efficiency, safety, and smar...
$429
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What Are Recycled Paper Countertops?
Recycled paper countertops are made from a mixture of post-consumer recycled paper. The mixture is then mixed with natural pigments and different types of binding resins. Unlike conventional plywood and other building products, the adhesives used with these types of countertops are entirely free of formaldehyde. The recycled paper and resin are baked in industrial ovens at high temperatures to make the countertops resistant to heat, water, and other elements. The combination of densely packed recycled paper and a thermoset plastic resin creates a smooth, durable countertop that is moderately resistant to cuts, scratches, burns, and stains.
According to research done by the University of Southern Indiana, Americans collectively use upwards of 85 million tons of paper each year. This amount averages out to almost 700 pounds per person each year. Between junk mail, print newspapers, old books, and homework, each household in the country throws away at least 13,000 pieces of paper every year. The Global Forest Resource Assessment estimates that up to 160,000 individual trees are cut down every day worldwide. Many of these trees are destined for the paper industry.
How Much Do Recycled Paper Countertops Cost?
Generally speaking, recycled paper countertops are more expensive than cheaper alternatives such as laminate, porcelain, and ceramic countertops and less costly than marble or granite. Homeowners should be prepared to pay somewhere between $45 and $70 per square foot for recycled paper countertops. For comparison's sake, the most elegant marble countertops can cost up to $190 per square foot. In contrast, a simpler travertine countertop might cost as low as $11 per square foot. For a six-foot by three-foot island in your kitchen, a recycled paper countertop should cost you somewhere between $800 and $1,200.
Are Recycled Paper Countertops Durable?
The thermoset plastic resins combined with the densely packed, composite, post-consumer paper waste make this type of countertop extremely durable. Despite its name, the countertop feels like a soft stone. These products are generally considered to be harder and longer-lasting than wood, yet much lighter than stone. The resins make the recycled paper extremely resistant to heat up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This means that homeowners will not have to worry about accidental burns when placing a hot pot on the counter. The product, when properly maintained, is almost entirely non-porous, similar to stainless steel and quartz. The smooth, hard surface allows it to be naturally anti-bacterial and easy to clean with simple and healthy kitchen cleaners. They are also surprisingly resistant to staining and chipping.
Do Recycled Paper Countertops Require Maintenance?
Recycled paper countertops do require regular maintenance to prolong their lifespan. Like many types of stone countertops, these products need to be sealed to avoid stains and other damage. Most companies that manufacture and market paper countertops also offer relatively inexpensive sealers that can be purchased and applied yearly. In the case of Paperstone, one of the leading manufacturers, a 12-oz bottle of finish will properly seal up to 150 square feet of countertop. Apply the sealant with a cloth, let it sit for 20 minutes, and then wipe clean. When you notice that the countertop is losing its sheen or luster, reapplying the sealant can help to ensure that it maintains its non-porous nature.
How Long Do Recycled Paper Countertops Last?
When properly maintained, recycled paper countertops can easily last for 25 years or more. Many of the manufacturers offer warranties for their products ranging between 15 and 20 years. These countertop options can even be used in outdoor settings. However, extended UV exposure will most likely lead to the fading of the colors. Also, because these countertops can be buffed and resealed, refurbishing can be a DIY project, thus saving on expensive contracting and labor fees.
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Article by
Tobias Roberts
Tobias runs an agroecology farm and a natural building collective in the mountains of El Salvador. He specializes in earthen construction methods and uses permaculture design methods to integrate structures into the sustainability of the landscape.
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