Solid surface countertops have been around for over 25 years now. And it’s one milestone that solid surface countertops certainly deserve. While some countertop innovations are, in my opinion, fads and trends that will disappear before long (i.e., concrete), the solid surface counter is a true mainstay of the modern kitchen.
Cooks have long been trying to find the perfect countertop material. At one time, wood or butcher block were favored materials, but one problem with wood is that it is porous. Ceramic tile has those much-hated grout lines which make it impossible to roll out large sections of pie dough. Even the popular granite and marble options are not perfect: they are expensive, prone to cracking, and can even be damaged by hot pans.
There are some major factors that set solid surface apart from other traditional materials used:
- Non porous – keeps bacteria away, promoting a cleaner and more sanitary countertop.
- Strong – unlike laminate, the plastic goes all the way through, and thus resists impact better.
- Scratches can be sanded out – by far, the greatest advantage of solid surface countertop material.
- Wide range of designs possible.
- Wide range of colors possible
Two main solid surface companies that create beautiful colors and patterns are CaesarStone and Cambria. Founded in 1987, CaesarStone was an early pioneer of the natural quartz surfaces market. Its dominant position in the market has been achieved through continuous investment, extensive research
and development, highly trained personnel and an advanced market infrastructure. CaesarStone evolved a new kind of work surface by adding quartz to the Bretonstone process. The manufacture of slabs from a mixture of ground quartz aggregates, pigments and polymers proved to be the unique components necessary for this new generation of surfacing. As a result of this advanced technology, CaesarStone is able to provide improved products with unprecedented physical properties superior to those of marble, granite and other manufactured surfaces. For more than a decade CaesarStone has set new standards in innovation and craftsmanship and continues to set the trends in the industry. CaesarStone is the original quartz surface manufacturer. With a continuous proactive approach to producing over 40 innovative colors and textures CaesarStone consistently provides a premium quartz surface with remarkable style and endurance – complementing a design application, from classic to contemporary. Nonporous, stain, scratch and heat resistant and backed by a residential lifetime warranty, CaesarStone is the ideal surface for kitchens, vanities and more.
Cambria is a privately held, family-owned company with an entrepreneurial vision. We bring a new perspective and approach to the quartz surfacing industry by responding to your needs. Cambria is the only producer of natural quartz surfaces in the United States. All other quartz brands are imported. Cambria is a natural stone surface that is elegant and practical. There is no safer surface for food
preparation. If you are building or remodeling your kitchen or bath, you will appreciate the beautiful collection of colors and the exceptional performance that Cambria offers. Because Cambria surfaces are so versatile, they can be used almost anywhere you need a beautiful surface with lasting durability. Cambria is the perfect way to add rich, warm color to any room in your home. Cambria’s natural quartz surfaces are perfect for kitchen countertops because Cambria is stronger than granite and, unlike granite, Cambria is nonporous, making it one of the safest surfaces for food preparation available. In fact, it is certified by NSF International as a safe surface for food preparation. Because Cambria surfaces are so versatile, they can be used almost anywhere you want a beautiful surface with lasting durability. From the functionality of a Cambria wet bar surface to the added elegance Cambria adds to accent furniture, tabletops and desktops, the possibilities are endless!
If you are someone who enjoys easy clean up, minimal to no maintenance than solid surface is definitely a fit for you!
