Granite Veneer & Granite Overlay Countertops

Granite veneer and granite overlay countertops are two different names for the same product. On this page, I’m going to refer to them as veneer from here on.

Lower Maintenance Than Granite Slabs

A big benefit to veneer counters is that they require less maintenance than traditional granite. The resin that used in the manufacturing process seals up the pores in the natural stone.

In traditional granite countertops you have to apply a sealer about once a year to keep those pores full and to prevent stains from settling in them.

Installing Veneers

One of the most convenient benefits that granite veneer offers your kitchen remodel is that they can be installed right on top of existing countertops. A cement is laid down on top of your existing countertop and the veneer is laid on top.

Veneer Prices – Much Cheaper Than Traditional Granite

Granite veneers are much cheaper than granite but more expensive than plastic laminate. This home remodeling idea is comparable in price to solid surfaces like Corian.

Granite Veneer vs Slab Granite

Traditional granite kitchen countertops are about 1  and 1 ⁄4″ thick. Veneer are only about 1 ⁄4″ thick but they are just as strong as their thicker cousins. Their strength is obtained by the process that is used to make them.

How They’re Made

Ground up granite, that otherwise would have been trucked to a landfill, is mixed with resins to form 1 ⁄4″ thick slabs. Strengthening agents are then added to the backside. The face is then polished to a glossy finish that looks just like natural granite.