Houston – From granite to marble to poured concrete, the countertops in your home can take your look to a whole new level. But stone is expensive, and that’s before you pay someone to install it. You ...

A: There are several do-it-yourself refinishing kits you can buy to provide a durable, real-granite or stonelike appearance. They are available at most home center stores for between $150 and $200.

Dear James: I have an old laminate kitchen countertop still in good shape. I want to refinish it myself so it looks like real granite. What options do I have? -- Sandra N. Dear Sandra: There are ...