SOLID SURFACE COUNTERTOPS

Solid surface countertops are a fairly new type of surface being used in kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects.  As the name implies, they are made from solid synthetic material which gives them many of their characteristics as well.

What are Solid Surface Countertops?

Sturdy acrylics are used to produce solid surface kitchen and bathroom countertops.  They have quickly become a popular choice for many homes, offering the advantages of laminate countertops but with greater quality and without the main disadvantages.  Popularized by leading brands such as Corian, Swanstone and others, they offer versatility and very good durability in a wide range of colors.

Strengths and Weaknesses

These are very hard, very durable countertops for the kitchen and bathroom.  Corian countertops are available in over 100 different colors as well as many patterns. Many of the looks are patterned after more expensive materials like granite, stone or quartz countertops.  Because of the variety, these countertops can be used in virtually any style of kitchen or bathroom, working well in both traditional and contemporary homes.  The surfaces of Swanstone and Corian countertops is solid, tough and non-porous, making them very easy to clean and maintain.  When custom made, solid surface countertops are made to present a seamless look in any kitchen or bathroom.  Integrated sinks can also be produced with Corian, Swanstone and other brands of kitchen and bathroom countertops.

Corian countertops and other solid surface countertops are not as resistant to heat as stone or quartz countertops.  These bathroom and kitchen countertops can also be scratched, but since they are solid in their color throughout, many scratches can be removed with careful sanding, which you can easily do yourself if you're handy, or you can hire a qualified contractor, although admittedly for a small scratch it probably isn't worth the trouble.  In terms of cost, solid surface countertops are on the upper end of the price spectrum but are not as costly as quartz, concrete, granite or other stone countertops.  They typically cost $75-$125 per square foot.

Who Should Consider Solid Surface Countertops?

If you want to peruse a large variety of patterns and colors but want something of higher quality and better durability than laminate, take a look at solid surface countertops.  They offer good quality yet lower prices than stone or quartz countertops.  Swanstone or Corian countertops would be a good place to start your search but other brands make very nice solid surface bathroom and kitchen countertops.  Due to their ease of maintenance, they make a very good choice for busy families.  Those with children might also consider solid surface countertops because they are so easy to clean.