Solid Surface Countertop

Solid Surface Countertop

What Is A Solid Surface Worktop?

At its most simple definition, a 'solid surface' is one that is of identical colour and texture all the way through, so that if you for instance cut it into a cross section, the revealed surfaces would always be identical. It has come now really to refer to the synthetic stone that is increasingly becoming common place in our kitchens, bathrooms and anywhere in fact that needs a tough and easy to clean surface.

The first of these 'solid surfaces' were created by Dupont in 1967. Labelled 'Corian', it quickly drew admirers from the interior and kitchen design industry. Very hard, completely water proof and with some additional features (which I will get into in just a moment), that has made it a very hard to ignore choice for a variety of applications. It has also, of course, drawn the eye of rivals and there are now several 'flavours' of solid surface materials out there for kitchen designers (and indeed the public) to choose from. For instance Hi-Macs from LG, which has subtly different characteristics - when choosing a worktop it might be advisable to do some research as to the relative advantages of each material.

Essentially these solid surfaces are made up of a mineral, Aluminium tri-Hydrate, and small amounts of other pigments, texturisers and bonding polymers. Many of the Avonite Colours and the Hi-Macs Volcanic colours also contain Polyester to increase the depth of finish and transparency. It is the ratio of these different elements and the types of bonding resin used that gives each solid surface its own 'flavour'. It is really a synthetic stone, a completely man-made material, and that offers it some really interesting qualities.

For instance, the base mineral in conjunction with the bonding polymer is non-porous, it simply does not absorb water, and that makes it a great material for the kitchen and bathroom which are frequently damp environments, and where a very high level of cleanliness is desirable.

Also, because it is made chemically, it can be virtually any colour or pattern - and these colours have a very long life cycle. There is no reason to suggest that the identical colour will not be being manufactured in 30 years.

Another trick up its sleeve is that at very high temperatures it melts - enabling just about any shape to be moulded, which has drawn the interest of experimental interior designers drawn to the versatility, strength and durability of these materials. For instance, with Corian, you can even get slightly translucent 'flavours', for a very interesting and futuristic look.

My feeling is that we have hardly begun to tap the possibilities inherent in this material, and that it will most likely be come a much more common place material around our homes and offices, especially with the rising prices and falling availability of tropical hardwoods.

Total Fabrication Training of Solid Surface Material


Frigidaire : 154477201 Sidemount Kit for Mounting Under Solid Surface Countertops
Frigidaire : 154477201 Sidemount Kit for Mounting Under Solid Surface Countertops
Sale Price: $17.99
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Description

Frigidaire Dishwasher Side Mount Kit 154477201

Features

  • F-SIDE MOUNT KIT
  • Works with the following models: Frigidaire FDB221RFR3
Amana Tool 57170 Round Over Countertop Solid Surface 2-Flute Carbide Tipped Router Bit, 1/2-Inch Shank
Amana Tool 57170 Round Over Countertop Solid Surface 2-Flute Carbide Tipped Router Bit, 1/2-Inch Shank
List Price: $166.44
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Features

  • Cutting diameter 1-7/8-Inch
  • 1-Inch cutting height
  • 1/2-Inch shank, 2-flute with ultra glide bearing
  • Carbide tipped, industrial quality
Hope Company Solid Surface Cleaner & Polish 8 Oz.
Hope Company Solid Surface Cleaner & Polish 8 Oz.
Sale Price: $6.40
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Description

Put just a wee bit of time and effort into caring for your high-gloss surfaces and cultured marble and you will be well rewarded. Ideal for Corian, Avonite, Wilsonart, and many other surfaces.

Features

  • 8 Oz.
  • Specifically designed to renew and maintain cultured marble and other high-gloss surfaces such as Corian
  • Cleans, seals, and protects
  • Unique solvent-free formulation
  • Do not use on laminate
Solid Surface Countertop Scratch Remover Kit
Solid Surface Countertop Scratch Remover Kit
Sale Price: $19.50
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Description

Solid Surface Countertop Scratch Remover Kit will remove damage caused by wear and tear, scuffs and burn marks from utensils, pots, pans, steel wool and non-woven cleaners. Your countertop will have a renewed and revitalized finish. Specifically for solid surface countertops such as Corian, Gibraltar, and others. High tech aluminum oxide refurbishing pads and liquid come with easy to use instructions.The kit restores matte, satin or gloss surfaces, as well as damaged areas, and beautifies your home's best investment and extends the life of your countertop. NOT for use on natural stone such as granite or marble, or on Formica or laminated or wood surfaces. (Caution: This product contains natural rubber latex which may cause allergic reactions- only the gloves are latex).

Features

  • Solid Surface Countertop Scratch Remover Kit will remove damage caused by wear and tear, scuffs and burn marks
  • Your countertop will have a renewed and revitalized finish. Specifically for solid surface countertops such as Corian, Gibraltar, and others.
Freud 85-001 2-Inch Round Over Bowl Router Bit with 1/2-Inch Shank
Freud 85-001 2-Inch Round Over Bowl Router Bit with 1/2-Inch Shank
List Price: $90.20
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Description

Application: Trimming joint between solid surface countertops and solid surface sink bowls with a smooth, rounded edge. Specially formulated carbide is ideal for fabricating solid surface materials. Features non-marring synthetic bearing to protect finished edges. Cuts all solid surface materials. Use in hand-held portable routers. Specifications: Rockler #: 38832 Freud #: 85-001 Overall Dia.: 2" Carbide Height: 1" Shank Dia.: 1/2" Overall Height: 2-7/8" Large Radius: 1/2" Angle: 15 degrees For Top Thickness: 3/4"

Features

  • Kickback reducing design
  • Individually computer balanced
  • Precision ground for the smoothest cuts
  • Covered by Freud's limited lifetime warranty
Laminate And Solid Surface Countertops
Laminate And Solid Surface Countertops
List Price: $50.00
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Description

The National Kitchen & Bath Association has taken a first step toward reinventing the installation delivery system for kitchens and bathrooms by recognizing the need for trained professional installers. The NKBA Kitchen/Bathroom Installation Manuals are designed to be a solid resource, offering information on all of the skills and competencies that are essential to professional installation. NKBA's education series is based on the premise that, in order for the industry to achieve maximum efficiency and true professionalism from installation personnel, kitchen and bathroom installers must become responsible for all phases of the project. They must demonstrate expertise and skill by providing excellent cabinet, countertop and carpentry work. And they must also be responsbile for project management, customer service in the field, and quality control before, during and after the installation. With the knowledge necessary to compete and succeed, kitchen and bathroom installers can take control of the installation delivery system and become a principle segment of the kitchen/bath industry. Laminate and Solid Surface Countertops offers an understanding of countertop materials and installation. It provides in-depth information on the tools techniques and systems needed to successfully fabricate today's most popular countertops.

Stone Care International  Solid Surface Care Kit, 8-Ounce Bottles
Stone Care International Solid Surface Care Kit, 8-Ounce Bottles
List Price: $39.99
Sale Price: $28.86
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Description

A complete stone care kit for marble, granite, natural stone, solid surfaces and tile. Kit consists of one each 8 oz bottle of Clean EnCounters Counter Top Cleaner and International Stone Polish. Clean EnCounters Countertop Spray Cleaner is designed to clean natural stone surfaces such as granite, marble and limestone, solid surfaces such as Corian, Gibraltar, Avonite, Fountainhead, Surrell, Topstone, Staron and Swanstone. Also cleans laminate surfaces such as Formica, Wilsonart, Nevamar and Pionite. Simply spray and wipe. Never leaves a residue. Degreases and cleans without streaking. Ready to use formula. The International Stone Polish is a protective countertop coating that will polish, protect and enhance the brilliant colors of natural stone. Not for floor use, the polish will protect and enhance the natural gloss of stone countertops, vanities, walls and columns. Simply apply it to the surface by hand and polish with a soft cloth. Also helps prevent staining and etching on the surface by providing a durable protective barrier. Safe for food handling surfaces.

Features

  • Ideal for granite, marble and limestone
  • Cleans and degreases
  • Safe for food handling surfaces
Swanstone QUSB-2522-077 24-Inch by 21-Inch Granite Single Bowl Undermount Kitchen Sink, Nero Finish
Swanstone QUSB-2522-077 24-Inch by 21-Inch Granite Single Bowl Undermount Kitchen Sink, Nero Finish
List Price: $404.83
Sale Price: $227.39
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Description

QU02522SB.077 Pictured in White but Available in Black Only The Swanstone Classics Collection presents the Swanstone granite single bowl kitchen sink. The granite single bowl kitchen sink from Swanstone features the same features as the drop-in version in a dedicated undermount model. Made with 80pct actual quartz natural stone, the Swanstone granite undermount sink is virtually indestructible, only diamond is a harder material. The Swanstone granite undermount large double bowl kitchen sink offers a unique, contemporary design that adds style to any kitchen. Providing a full range of products with a distinct American feel, this Swanstone collection epitomizes the ideal that quality and value never go out of style. Features: -Swanstone Classics Collection -Granite single bowl kitchen sink -Available in Nero only -9 deep bowl -Mounts under any countertop material including granite/quartz, solid surface and tile -The same features as the drop-in version in a dedicated undermount model -Made with 80pct actual quartz natural stone -Virtually indestructible, only diamond is a harder material -Unique, contemporary design adds style to any kitchen -The same features as the drop-in version in a dedicated undermount model -Swanstone's limited lifetime warranty -Dimensions: 24 W x 21 D For more information on this product please view the Specifications Sheets seen below. Installation & Care

Features

  • 24-Inch by 21-Inch
  • Bowl: 21-3/8-Inch by 17-7/8-Inch by 9-Inch
  • Undermount, granite
  • Virtually indestructible - will not damage from kitchen use
  • Drain not included - sold separately
ROE9Y72SC Compact Kitchen with Solid Surface Countertop 2 Electric Burners Oven Sink and Compact
ROE9Y72SC Compact Kitchen with Solid Surface Countertop 2 Electric Burners Oven Sink and Compact
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Description

The unit kitchen industry exists to solve the problem of providing kitchen facilities in limited spaces. Acmes modular construction in even the tightest locations easier and less costly. The refrigeration section on all our units is removable which a...

Features

  • Design flexibility
  • 6.0 cu. ft. removable refrigerator with automatic cycle defrost
  • Deluxe crispers
  • 30 lb. capacity freezer section
  • Reversible door hinges