Is Solid Surface the Right Countertop for You?
Solid Surface is a low-maintenance, non-porous countertop material known for its seamless appearance and numerous designs, which often mimic the look of granites and marbles. Thus it is often referred to as “synthetic granite” here in the Philippines.
Introduced in the late 1960s under the brand “Corian,” it is made from acrylic or polyester resin and can be shaped into any form thanks to thermoforming. It has a consistent composition throughout its thickness, hence the term “solid surface.” Unlike laminates, which feature a thin decorative surface layer, the solid surface features uniformity in color and pattern throughout its entire thickness.
Beyond Corian, there are other notable brands available in the Philippines, which include “Staron,” “Hanex,” and “Solflex.” These brands, among others, provide homeowners and designers with a diverse range of color and pattern options to suit any application.
What are the Advantages of Solid Surface Countertops?
Seamless Appearance
The most significant advantage of solid surface countertops is their smooth, seamless look. Individual sheets or slabs can be connected neatly, creating an almost invisible seam for a sleek, uninterrupted finish. It’s a big plus, especially for large or intricate countertop designs.
This feature isn’t just for residential kitchens, though. You’ll often find solid surface counters in many fast food joints, convenience stores, and hospitals.
Such a feature is particularly valuable in large and complex countertop designs. As such, you can easily find it in most fast food and convenience store counters in the country.
Variety of Designs
Solid surface countertops offer an impressive range of color and pattern combinations, making them a versatile choice for any kitchen or bathroom. You can find everything from bright, eye-catching colors to softer, more understated earth tones. Some even boast silver flecks or metallic chips scattered throughout their surface.
With a broad range of options, solid surface countertops provide a flexible and appealing choice for homeowners and designers for a personalized kitchen space.
Repairability
Another great thing about solid surface counters is their durability and repairability. You can quickly remove minor scratches and burn marks with a soft, abrasive cleaner. And even if the damage is a bit more serious, you don’t necessarily need a whole new countertop. A pro can usually fix it by sanding down the surface and giving it a new polish, making it look good as new.
It’s a practical and cost-effective solution for busy households and commercial establishments. After all, life happens—spills, drips, and accidents are inevitable. But these minor mishaps don’t have to be a major headache with a solid surface countertop. You can relax, knowing that your countertop can withstand everyday wear and tear and that most damage can be repaired without too much fuss.
Curious to know how much will your counter cost?
What are the Disadvantages of Solid Surface Countertops?
Vulnerable to Heat
While a solid surface has its perks, it also has drawbacks that are worth nothing. For one, it’s not heat-resistant. Hot pots or pans can leave a scorch mark on their surface, so you must always use trivets or hot pads to avoid damage.
It will require some adjustment if you’re used to more heat-resistant surfaces, like granite or marble, making it an essential factor in deciding which countertop material best suits your needs. If you do a lot of cooking and are worried about forgetting to use a trivet or hot pad, consider a more heat-resistant option, like natural stone or stainless steel.
Additionally, it is not ideal for outdoor applications as it can fade or warp with prolonged, direct exposure to the sun. Extreme temperature fluctuations may also cause the material to expand and contract, potentially leading to cracks.
Vulnerable to Scratches
Solid surface countertops are generally scratch-resistant but not scratch-proof. Sharp objects, like knives, and abrasive materials, like steel wool and scouring pads, can leave marks on the surface.
Remember: although your counter can handle everyday wear and tear, it’s not indestructible. It’s best to take a few simple precautions to keep it looking great. Use a cutting board when chopping veggies, and opt for a non-abrasive cleaner when tidying up. With a little bit of care, your solid surface counter can stay looking new for years to come.
Lacks the Visual Depth of Natural Stones
Lastly, while a solid surface can imitate the look of granite or marble, it doesn’t achieve the same depth and detail as an authentic stone. This lack of authenticity can be a downside, especially if you love the deep, rich color of natural stone.
However, a solid surface might be the better option if you’re more interested in uniformity and ease of maintenance. It all depends on what you value most in your countertop material.
Life in plastic, it's fantastic
What are the Applications of Solid Surface?
The solid surface is a flexible material suitable for various applications. Here are some of the common applications of solid surface:
- Kitchen Countertops
- Vanity Tops
- Reception Counters
- Workstations
- Ledges
However, keep in mind that while the solid surface is durable and versatile, it is not suitable for every application. For example, it is not ideal for applications like fireplace surrounds or outdoor kitchens because of its limitations. Always consult a professional if you’re considering solid surface for your project.
How Do You Take Care of a Solid Surface Counter?
- Clean regularly: Wipe up your countertop daily with a soft cloth and a mild, non-abrasive cleaner to remove dirt and grime.
- Rinse it well: Upon cleaning, rinse the surface thoroughly with water to remove any residue.
- Deal with spills promptly: Clean up spills and drips as soon as they occur to avoid staining.
- Use cutting boards: Always use a cutting board when chopping, slicing, or dicing to protect your counter from scratches and knife marks.
- Use trivets or heat pads: Protect your countertop from heat damage by placing hot pots and pans on trivets and hot pads.
- Consult a professional for major repairs: Contact a solid surface professional to repair or refine deep scratches, cracks, or burns.
- Don't use abrasive cleaners: Avoid using abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or steel wool, as they can scratch or dull your counter's surface.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Refrain from using harsh chemicals, like paint removers, oven cleaners, or nail polish removers, to protect your countertop from damage or discoloration.
- Don't sit or stand on your counter: Solid surface countertops are durable but not designed to support a person's weight. Standing or sitting on the surface can lead to cracks or breakage.
How Much Does Solid Surface Cost in the Philippines?
The cost of a solid surface slab can vary, depending on the brand and the complexity of the design you choose. On average, in the Philippines, the price of the material alone ranges from Php 5,200 to Php 7,600 per square meter.
Do note that these figures don’t account for the cost of installation. It’s a significant aspect to consider when budgeting for your new counter. Remember to factor in the installation charges alongside the cost of the material for a complete picture of the overall expense.
Are there Better Alternatives to Solid Surface?
While solid surface countertops offer a range of benefits, they may not be for everyone, considering their drawbacks. If you’re considering other options, you might want to look into granite, marble, and quartz. We’ll explore these three alternatives and discuss why you might want to choose them over a solid surface countertop.
Granite
Granite is a highly durable natural stone that has been popular for countertops for decades. Its unique, granular appearance comes from the cooling and solidifying of molten materials deep within the earth. Each slab is unique, offering a wide range of color and pattern combinations you won’t find elsewhere.
It has several advantages over a solid surface. First, granite is heat-resistant. It won’t be easily damaged or discolored by hot pots and pans. Moreover, it’s more scratch-resistant, making it an excellent choice for busy kitchens.
However, some granites, especially light-colored ones, require period sealing to protect them from stains. It’s also more expensive than a solid surface counter, but many homeowners consider the cost worthwhile, considering the beauty and longevity it provides.
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Black Forest (Granite)
₱5,000 per sqm.
Marble
Marble is another natural stone that homeowners and designers often choose for its timeless elegance. Like granite, each marble slab is unique, with colors ranging from white, black, brown, red, and green. It has an inherent beauty that no synthetic surface can match, giving your kitchen a sense of depth and luxury.
It’s also heat-resistant, which makes it ideal for cooking and baking. Hence, it’s often used in bakeries and pizzerias to make dough because it remains cool even in hot environments, preventing the dough from overheating.
On the downside, marble is more porous than granite and solid surface, which means it can stain if spills and drips aren’t wiped up promptly. It’s also softer, making it more susceptible to scratches and etching. Lastly, marble is on the premium side and requires regular sealing to maintain its appearance.
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Crema Marfil (Marble)
₱8,000 per sqm.
Quartz
Quartz is an engineered stone composed of crushed stone aggregates bound by resin. As such, it has the durability and heat resistance of natural stone plus the stain resistance of solid surfaces.
Engineered quartz is non-porous, so you don’t need to seal it, unlike granite or marble. It’s also highly durable, making it resistant to chipping and scratching.
Like solid surface, it comes in a wide range of designs, many of which mimic the look and feel of natural stone.
However, it comes with a higher price tag. Nevertheless, for many, the benefits of quartz outweigh the cost. Its beauty, durability, and required upkeep make it a worthwhile investment for most.
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Desert Spider (Quartz)
₱8,500 per sqm.
Conclusion
While solid surface countertops offer a seamless look, stain resistance, and a variety of designs, it is essential to consider the downsides of this material. Its vulnerability to heat and
