Looking for advice on Paperstone vs Richlite

10 years ago

last modified: 10 years ago

I'm wondering if any of you helpful Houzzer's have seen both Paperstone and Richlite countertop installations.

I know that they are the "type" of material I'm looking for, but I've only been able to see Paperstone in person. I'm a little wary of it's blotchy character, which I understand gets more pronounced over time.

I'm not afraid of the counter gaining a patina, nor am I looking for a perfectly uniform surface. I think the Paperstone just has a certain "something-looks-like-it's-gone-a-bit-wrong" appearance that is a little hard to describe - especially in areas of high use. Folks that have seen it might know what I mean.

I haven't been able to track down a Richlite installation where I live (Vancouver, BC) to compare the two. I'm wondering if anyone can give me a first hand account on the similarities/differences of the two materials...or perhaps suggest a similar alternative.

Thanks!

ps I should perhaps mention that I'm looking at black counters

Featured Answer

hmizia

8 years ago

@kitchenchemist, did you get these installed? I am also in Colorado and looking at Paperstone.

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Comments (8)

PRO
Patricia Colwell Consulting
10 years ago
I have Richlite cutting boards one black one brown they fade a bit over time but I also put them in the DW so I think as a counter top should work well,
Carol Johnson
10 years ago
I think they have similar properties & I would expect them to look the same over time with lots of use. It will act like wood.
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kitchenchemist
10 years ago
I have a similar question--we're considering using Richlite (Black Diamond) as an affordable, greener alternative to soapstone. I might pick up a Richlite cutting board as a "sample". If I find an installation here in Colorado, I'll post pics!
Nancy Smith
10 years ago
In my opinion the Richlite does not look as mottled as the Paperstone and the Richlite looks "richer" and feels more dense.
Nancy Smith
8 years ago
I had the Richlite installed two years ago. I would pick a lighter color next time to not show so many light scratches.
PRO
Joseph Corlett, LLC
8 years ago
Pete:

This is a Paperstone countertop with an integrated cove backsplash that I built several years ago. The reddish angled line in the second picture is shadow.

Another local fabricator said Paperstone couldn't be coved. Ha.
juliaop
8 years ago
Pete, what did you end up going with; Paperstone or Richlite? And how was the installation? I'm hoping to use either one of these and would love any feedback!