Paperstone Countertop Prices

The Costs 

• Minimum - $40 per square foot

• Maximum - $112 per square foot

The following are average costs for different qualities of PaperStone:

• Average costs per 50 square feet-

• Basic Quality: $2,545 to $2,770

• Better Quality: $2,982 to $3,045

• High Quality: $3,267 to $3,607

• Designer Sourced: $4,700 to $5,600

Additional PaperStone Costs

PaperStone estimates may include labor costs. If the consumer is simply buying the product and intends to go elsewhere for installation or self-install, the materials cost will contribute to a smaller initial estimate. However, consumers should be aware that whether they are going elsewhere for an installation expert or self-installing, there will be additional costs for equipment. Contractors may also charge more for complex configurations or decorative edging of the countertop. Consumers should also factor in the cost of sealer, which is best acquired from the PaperStone merchant.

PaperStone costs will vary depending on thickness of pieces and customizations like decorative edging and color. It is best to shop and renovate in the late fall to winter as this is the off season for construction and costs may be lower.

PaperStone Materials

PaperStone is a brand of composite, recycled-paper fiber materials. It is not the only composite paper fiber brand; however, while other brands may incorporate petroleum based resins in their paper composite process, PaperStone is unique in that its petroleum-free phenolic resin made of natural bee and carnauba waxes is nontoxic and biodegradable. This means that whereas other paper composite brands may not be safe for the environment either during construction or when disposed of, PaperStone is a fully green material made of 100% recycled materials and is 100% biodegradable. It is formed by compressing resin soaked paper fiber sheets, and the paper is 100% from recycled sources. PaperStone’s estimated weight is 1.8 pounds per square foot per .25 inch of thickness. Among the colors in which PaperStone is available are slate, cabernet, chocolate, denim, evergreen, gunmetal, leather, mocha and a few others. Because it is a manufactured product, colors will be consistent with samples and across jobs.

Alternatives to PaperStone

PaperStone is not the only brand of composite, recycled-paper fiber surfaces. However, other brands do not use its proprietary resin and may not hold up as well, possess the same non-toxic properties or are safe for the environment once they’re disposed. PaperStone, however, is a wonderful green alternative to granite. Whereas granite is a natural substance, it is not a renewable resource. PaperStone theoretically has an endless supply because it is made by recycling other materials, which in turn have been made from trees. Wood is also slightly similar to PaperStone but does not share its durability, imperiousness and other favorable characteristics of this manufactured material. Eco-Top, Kliptech and Richlite are competing brands with PaperStone that also use recycled paper fiber in their composites. PaperStone and Eco-Top were created by the same individual with Eco-Top coming after PaperStone.

Ways to Use PaperStone

• Industrial work surfaces

• Garage and shop work tables

• Bathroom vanities

• Kitchen counters

• Outdoor kitchens

Advantages of PaperStone

In addition to being friendly to the environment in practice, using PaperStone can help contribute points on the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) point system for green certification. It is NSF certified food safe so that food can be prepared on its surface without concern. While it is somewhat scratch-resistant, any minor nicks or scratches can be easily removed with a little sandpaper and mineral oil. PaperStone is also heat-resistant and is great for kitchen countertops because it can withstand heat up to 350 degrees. It is impervious to water as well as it inhibits bacterial growth. It’s resistance to water means it can be used for everything from office furniture to bathroom countertops.

Disadvantages of PaperStone

PaperStone is limited to dark colors as a result of its resin, so if a consumer desires a lighter or pale counter top, PaperStone will not suffice. PaperStone is also not impossible to damage. While many describe the patina and wear marks that PaperStone shows as ‘character,’ others may see the signs of wear as a negative. It has also been reported that direct UV rays can damage or alter the color of PaperStone. Though scratches are generally easy to repair, some homeowners describe PaperStone as too easy to scratch. The manufacturer also suggests sealing paper composite surfaces to help preserve the look, so finicky homeowners may need to factor in the time and effort of doing so.

A Practical Building Material

PaperStone can be worked similar to wood. Contractors skilled with woodworking and possessing the equipment to work hardwood can also work PaperStone. It is easier to work with than materials like granite or other types of rock and possesses a look similar to soapstone. It is generally cheaper than stone when it comes to installation costs, thanks to the ease of working it. PaperStone comes in thicknesses of a quarter inch and higher. For countertop applications, it should be at least .75 inches thick, and can support an overhang of up to 18 inches unsupported.

Maintenance of PaperStone

The manufacturer suggests initially sealing PaperStone counters to add a layer of protection even though they’re stain-resistant. To clean, use hot soapy water or a mild, nonabrasive kitchen cleaner. After time, when water no longer beads on the surface or it seems dull and marred, use The Original Bees Wax spray on the surface. Polish it in until the surface is even and no longer changes with more application of the wax. A diluted solution of bleach and water in a one to 10 ratio is best for disinfecting the surface.

Wrap-up

There are few materials as eco-friendly both before, during and after production as PaperStone. Its countless applications in everything from furniture to counters to outdoor applications makes it a viable option for almost any purpose. Durable, water-resistant, economical and beautiful, PaperStone has the potential to be a dream-building material.

Last updated on Oct 29, 2014