I knw some very nice living quarters have things like granite or tile.  I will be driving over rough roads and terrain, though, (steel trailer with torsion axles) and am wondering if that would crack or if there is something to do to prevent it from cracking.  It will be a short counter - four feet and five feet (because of the slant wall) and 24 inches deep. 

Thanks.  That's what I thought, but wanted to make sure.  It's such a small space, it'd be nice to have something really pretty, but I don't really want a maintenance problem.  My realtor friend always cautioned me about tile's tendency to break.

Thanks!

You can silicone the tile for adhesive and use flexible grout.

Thanks for the additional information.  If there were an edit feature here, I would have edited that post.  I know that there is beautiful formica, and my wording may not have properly expressed that.  I'm not sure I can do what I want with the formica, but a quick trip to the kitchen center will answer that for me. 

Thanks!

this may be a stupid question but  can a new counter top be put over  the existing one?  I know you can do that with floors...

That's a great point on the weight.  Thanks.

As for the edit feature, I think you have to edit within a minute or two, and I don't usually act within that time frame.

You can use many surfaces for counter tops in LQs; porcelain, ceramic, granite, formica even wooden flooring. Because many of the galleys are fairly small, weight isn't always an issue. If you use smaller sized tiles instead of "slabs", cracking isn't an issue as well.

If the counter is built of 3/4" plywood, it will be more than rigid enough to support most materials. If they are installed with construction adhesives (IE "Liquid Nails, polyurethane adhesives etc) the pieces will hold fast and have a bit of flexibility. If minimal grout lines are used with sandless grout and grout improver, the lines will be durable as well.

If the original surface is flat and can be roughed up with a coarse grit sandpaper, and the glues will adhere, it can be recovered. However, it's usually better to try to strip the top to the original surface. You will also have to remove the sink and faucets before an new surface is installed or the old one removed.

Most of these surfacing materials are relatively inexpensive and are rapidly applied. It's a quick way to upgrade or finish your LQ, and if installed correctly, will become a lasting and decorative addition to your living space. It's a relatively easy DIY project; the materials are readily available, and the cutting tools can be rented or borrowed from many tile suppliers.