QUESTION

We moved into a new home 7 years ago and not long after this, we noticed our kitchen counter tops were becoming "sticky" in certain areas (Formica Lifeseal). The builder had closed down, however, we did contact the Formica people but received no response despite a few calls to them and promises to get back to us. As the tops are now completely unsanitary and unsightly, we have no option but to replace them but are not in a financial position to use granite. Do you have any suggestions as to a mid range product which is better than the Formica Lifeseal but not exorbitantly expensive? The colour we would prefer to use is dark grey or "charcoal".