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Granite or Stone
The most durable option of all countertops, stone is becoming more popular among homeowners and is no longer seen as an "exotic" option. Granite countertops are made from natural products and come in a wide range of colors, patterns and depths, yet each is absolutely unique. The cost, which a few years ago was prohibitive for most budgets, has come down due to increasing imports, new technologies and thinner blades that allow the product to be cut with less waste and cost. Most slabs come in 9 Ft. x 5 Ft. sections. |
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Plastic Laminates
Until a few years ago, when someone mentioned countertops, plastic laminate was probably what most people thought of first. In fact, plastic-laminate tops still account for 75 percent of the market. This product is made of multiple layers of resin soaked kraft paper, topped by a patterned sheet of melamine that is subjected to heat and pressure. A 1/16-inch laminate sheet is then made into a countertop in two ways: Post formed: post-forming is done at a fabrication plant to create tops with rounded backsplashes and nosing. These tops can be purchased off-the-shelf in limited colors, or special ordered. The result is the least expensive, easiest to clean and quickest to install plastic laminate. Custom fabricated: Custom fabricating results in a range of styles. Laminate sheets are glued to the particle board, then edged with laminate, wood or solid surface strips. |
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Tile
Granite, porcelain and glazed tiles are most commonly used on countertops, as they are less porous and more durable. Install backerboard over plywood to create a good surface to install tiles. Then use an epoxy grout that is more durable. If standard cement grout is used, make sure you seal it often and well. |
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Engineered Stone
Engineered stone combines the functional benefits of solid-surface material with the great look of natural stone. Engineered stone is mostly made of crushed natural stone (93 percent) that is bound together by acrylic or polyester resins. It's a fairly new product in the U.S., but has been popular in Europe for more than a decade. Anyone looking for zero maintenance on a kitchen countertop should consider this product. Products made of marble and limestone are best suited for bathrooms. |
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