Solid Surface Countertops -
April 29, 2009
For approximately the past 7 to 10 years, "granite" has been the magic word for describing a kitchen. Real estate agents would be quick to point out that the subject property had granite kitchen counter tops. Any remodeled kitchen, even in older homes, would almost require a granite counter top.
Prior to the rush to granite, the luxury material for kitchen counter tops was Corian, a registered trademark for a manufactured solid surface counter top. Both granite and Corian have the distinct advantage over tile and laminates in that they can be installed with no seams. Corian has a slight advantage over granite in that cracks, burns and scratches can be repaired and removed and the counter top made to look brand new. (I know this for a fact as we have Corian counter tops that are 20 years old and had a crack repaired and there is absolutely no evidence that a crack ever existed.)
Along with fabrication and installation by a certified contractor, proper care is always important to maintain the counter top, especially the granite. It is a natural stone material that has a surface that has been polished to be glossy and shiny. Granite can usually be cleaned with just water and a mild soap. It is important to clean spills as quickly as possible as they could cause discoloration. Sliding pots and pans across the surface can cause scratches. Very hot objects should be set on hot pads or trivets as the surface will absorb the heat and might cause a burn or crack.
What is especially valuable about these solid state surfaces is that they are renewable. There are professionals who are trained to make repairs or just to come in and re polish. This renewing work does not require removal of the material and can usually be done in a normal working day.
It is less expensive than replacing entire counter tops. According to many vendors, these counter tops will last a lifetime.
While trends often have a huge influence on the choice of materials for kitchens, solid state counter tops are probably one item that will continue to find favor with home buyers. This is a good thing as they are a major expense of a kitchen. It is nice to know that while appliances may wear out, these counter tops can continue to look like new.
For approximately the past 7 to 10 years, "granite" has been the magic word for describing a kitchen. Real estate agents would be quick to point out that the subject property had granite kitchen counter tops. Any remodeled kitchen, even in older homes, would almost require a granite counter top.
Prior to the rush to granite, the luxury material for kitchen counter tops was Corian, a registered trademark for a manufactured solid surface counter top. Both granite and Corian have the distinct advantage over tile and laminates in that they can be installed with no seams. Corian has a slight advantage over granite in that cracks, burns and scratches can be repaired and removed and the counter top made to look brand new. (I know this for a fact as we have Corian counter tops that are 20 years old and had a crack repaired and there is absolutely no evidence that a crack ever existed.)
Along with fabrication and installation by a certified contractor, proper care is always important to maintain the counter top, especially the granite. It is a natural stone material that has a surface that has been polished to be glossy and shiny. Granite can usually be cleaned with just water and a mild soap. It is important to clean spills as quickly as possible as they could cause discoloration. Sliding pots and pans across the surface can cause scratches. Very hot objects should be set on hot pads or trivets as the surface will absorb the heat and might cause a burn or crack.
What is especially valuable about these solid state surfaces is that they are renewable. There are professionals who are trained to make repairs or just to come in and re polish. This renewing work does not require removal of the material and can usually be done in a normal working day.
It is less expensive than replacing entire counter tops. According to many vendors, these counter tops will last a lifetime.
While trends often have a huge influence on the choice of materials for kitchens, solid state counter tops are probably one item that will continue to find favor with home buyers. This is a good thing as they are a major expense of a kitchen. It is nice to know that while appliances may wear out, these counter tops can continue to look like new.
posted by shirley harry at 9:06 AM
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