A lower-maintenance countertop alternative to wood is Richlite, a composite product that’s nonporous and resembles wood. Richlite is made with paper-based fiber from sustainable hemp fields or forests and produces no hazardous waste during the manufacturing process, making it an eco-friendly option.

The biggest advantage to Richlite is its strength—it can extend out far past a support without sagging or snapping. For example, a 1-inch-thick piece can extend 18 inches; the thicker the piece, the further it can extend. This stability makes Richlite an ideal material for countertops with an eating counter.

Richlite countertops come in a range of matte-finished colors that, like wood, will darken over time with exposure to natural light. It’s heat- and water-resistant and will resist stains if it receives regular applications of sealant.

Sharp objects can scratch Richlite, but, since it’s colored throughout, most marks are inconspicuous and can be buffed out. However, gouges can’t be repaired.