Countertops made of stone

The quality of the countertop and its appearance are among the most important conditions for the competent arrangement of the workplace in the kitchen. It is on the table top that you have to cut, rub, and beat the most. Therefore it is very important which surface you prefer for your kitchen.

Table tops made of natural stone

This type of working surface has a number of advantages. A natural stone does not absorb odor or moisture, but it copes well with various mechanical influences. Such a surface is not afraid of high temperatures and is very easy to clean.

If in the course of time scratches formed, it is enough to polish them and the stone will again shine like a new one. For supporters of a healthy lifestyle, such a surface is most acceptable because of its environmental friendliness.

The only drawback of such a tabletop made of stone is its price. It is worth noting that it is not for every kitchen interior will fit equally well. For example, for small or narrow kitchen areas such coverage is too cumbersome and will create the impression of congestion. In addition, the natural stone will never be completely homogeneous in its design and composition, since it is a product of nature.

Types of countertops made of artificial stone

More common and affordable option - countertops of artificial stone. To date, there are two main coatings that manufacturers offer: acrylic stone and agglomerate. Let us consider each of them in detail.

  1. Acrylic stone is a mineral filler in acrylic resin. As a matter of fact to a natural stone this covering has no relation, similarity only visual. One of the advantages of this type of material is the possibility of creating a seamless coating in the kitchen. In this case, the complexity of the form can be completely arbitrary. Such material is stronger than natural stone, it is resistant to impacts and does not absorb moisture. Care of the table top made of artificial stone is very simple. To clean the surface, just rinse it with soapy water. But such material is afraid of high temperatures, scratches are very visible on the surface, so the use of abrasive agents or hard wool is unacceptable.
  2. Coatings from agglomerate are absolutely not afraid of heat, they are not afraid of scratches and they are more like a natural stone. The disadvantages of countertops made of artificial stone are associated with its installation. If the stove is more than 3 meters, there will always be stitches. However, they are closed fairly qualitatively and outwardly they are invisible. If the acrylic stone can be restored, then the agglomerate does not respond to such a procedure. This coating is always cold. And most importantly: you can transport the table top only in a vertical view.

Thickness of countertop made of artificial stone

As for acrylic stone, manufacturers offer models with a thickness of 3-12mm. Facing fastens on the frame of high-quality plywood. If you mount a structure with a frame, then the thickness of the coating is not important, only the quality of the substrate is important. It is clear that the weight of the table top made of artificial stone in this case depends entirely on the thickness of the acrylic stone. Producers offer to choose the largest only for one reason: if necessary, you can always polish the surface.

If you decide to use the agglomerate, then the frame can not be installed. This will have a good effect on the durability of the structure, since the substrate will not absorb moisture. If you decide to avoid stitches, you can order a one-piece construction. But then the weight of the table top made of artificial stone and its price will increase noticeably. As for the thickness, the countertops made of artificial stone are made from 1 to 3 cm. In the first case, add a rim to visually increase the thickness. In the second case the rim will not be required.