Solid Surface Countertops in Public Settings

We've heard the brand names before such as Corian, Silestone, Formica, Wilsonart, Avonite, Staron, and Hausys. What are these names, what are their differences, and why are they formally called solid surface countertops? Each brand is a respective trademark of their various companies and slightly differentiated formulation of what's commonly referred to as solid surface materials. Solid surface is a non-porous, man-made material. It is renewable, low-maintenance and able to create the effects and appearance of stone, wood, and other naturally found materials. The brands mentioned produce finished products such as kitchen countertops, bathroom countertops, and shower and tub surrounds. The products are made by mixing acrylic or polyester resin with bauxite, quartz, binders, and pigments. The difference from one brand to another is simply the proprietary formulation that one company uses versus another. It is no different than having a chili cooking contest and providing the same ingredients to each chef. At the end, every contestant's chili will taste slightly different but they will all be the same food! What really differentiates the brands is their respective warranties and color options.

ITEM #	LENGTH	DEPTH	PRICE
SH-04S-25X19	25"	19"	$423.75
SH-04S-25X22	25"	22"	$423.75
SH-04S-31X19	31"	19"	$447.50
SH-04S-31X22	31"	22"	$447.50
SH-04S-37X19	37"	19"	$497.50
SH-04S-37X22	37"	22"	$497.50
SH-04S-43X19	43"	19"	$535.00
SH-04S-43X22	43"	22"	$535.00
SH-04S-49X19	49"	19"	$608.75
SH-04S-49X22	49"	22"	$608.75
SH-04S-61X19	61"	19"	$725.00
SH-04S-61X22	61"	22"	$725.00
SH-04S-61X19DB	61"	19" (Double Bowl)	$848.75
SH-04S-61X22DB	61"	22" (Double Bowl)	$848.75

Solid surface counter tops can be found in multiple environments including commercial settings. Solid surface offers architects, designers, and specifies a product that is appropriate to a wide range of commercial settings and industries. The product is often specified in commercial settings such as a medial or doctors office because of the following characteristics:

• It is easily fabricated in to unique shapes, sizes, and design styles.
• The material is non porous so it is impermeable to germs.
• It is highly durable, stain resistant, easy to clean, and easy to maintain.
• It represents excellent value from a pricing perspective.
• It is available in hundreds of colors including patient calming tones that create relaxation in a tense medical setting.

Solid surface countertops also have applications in other commercial settings such as food service and office spaces. Since the product is non porous and resistant to bacteria, viruses, and germs, it has been certified by NSF International as being a safe material for the food service industry. NSF is a public health and safety company that is a not for profit, nongovernmental organization which establishes the standards appropriate for public health and safety. They focus on materials that come in contact with food, water, and indoor air. Additionally, solid surface is embraced in office space settings because it helps designers keep a consistent color theme for a company. When a company's logos and colors are established, the designer can choose corresponding countertops that will create a consistent corporate image.

Finally, solid surface countertops are appropriate for public spaces such as airport bathrooms, museums, convention centers, and others. The material is stain resistant and durable so it will withstand heavy use. Unusual shapes are possible since it is a poured material that is only limited by moulds and imagination. Additionally, the material is very easy to repair in a quick manner. Most repairs make the product look brand new without any seams to show a piece that may have potentially been removed.

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