What you should know about solid surface countertops
Remodeling any part of your home can be a big job and choosing counter tops can be just as difficult. Solid surface countertops have been popular through several decades because they're clean, uniform, and easy to care for. With several options however it can be difficult to know where to start, so here are some tips on what you should know about solid surface countertops before you buy.
1. Look at your options. You will find most solid surface countertops in many different colors and patterns ranging from solid white to other colors of your choice. Some solid surface countertops are even made to look like granite, marble, and onyx in blended colors or various hues. There are many more options to choose from today than there used to be, so make sure you know what's out there and what your options are.
2. Durability. Most solid surface countertops are available in ¼", ½", and _" thickness. Depending on what you are going to be doing on your countertop will depend on how thick you want to buy. The thinnest solid surface material has to have a solid backing and is used primarily for shower walls and such. The other two sizes are best used for countertops with the _" material being able to lie unsupported. So for example, if you want to have a counter that hangs over so that you can sit stools under them, the _" material would be your best option.
3. Look at other accessories. In most cases if you are replacing your countertops you are probably replacing other things like your backsplash or your sink. There are several different options when it comes to finding a sink to match your countertop. Some are top-mounted while others are mounted underneath the counter. They also come in several different colors, patterns, and sizes so after you have chosen a countertop remember to think about accessories like your sink to go with it.
Different types of Solid Surface Countertops
- Corian: This type of solid surface countertop material has become quite popular today because many people love that the sink and countertop all roll into one piece. Corian is an imitation stone surface, is smooth to touch, and is much more affordable than it used to be. Corian is more durable than laminate but it has a few drawbacks. The surface will not indent like a laminate countertop, but it can crack if you place a really hot pan on it. It will also scratch easily and show knife cuts. The good part about Corian is that the damage can easily be removed with a sanding process.
- Granite: Granite is also another popular type of solid surface countertop to use today. It looks gorgeous in kitchens and is extremely durable. It is a natural product and usually come in slabs so you don't have to have an entire countertop made from it if you don't want. The downside to granite is that it has many different characteristics within the slab itself so what you see in the store may not be exactly what you get in your kitchen. You are never guaranteed the same piece from the store as the one you get installed. The upside is definitely that it is resistant to heat and will not crack or dent and your chances of replacing it is very small.
- Formica: Formica is a high pressure laminate surface that you will probably find for the cheapest amount of money. It comes in a range of different colors and patterns so it is likely that you will be able to find something to match your home décor. The downside is that it is susceptible to burns, cuts and scratches, and if a hard enough object falls on it, the surface will dent. When it comes to Formica you get what you pay for.
It's true that shopping for countertops can be an overwhelming and difficult decision. Hopefully this article will give you an idea of what you should know about solid surface countertops before you actually buy one.
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Tags: what you should know solid surface countertops options durability countertops accessories sink backsplash colors patterns Corian stone Granite Formica laminate
