Solid Surface Man-made Alternative

Solid surface man-made alternative is to be introduce here. Solid surface is a man-made material. It is usually composed of a combination of alumina trihydrate (ATH), acrylic, epoxy or polyester resins and pigments. It is most frequently used for seamless countertop installations.

Solid Surface Invention

Solid surface was first introduced by DuPont in 1967 under the name of Corian. Since the expiration of their patent other manufacturers have entered the market with their own branded products.

Solid Surface Features

Solid surface is a non-porous low-maintenance material used for surfaces such as countertops. It can mimic the appearance of granite, marble, stone, and other naturally occurring materials, and can be joined nearly invisibly by a trained craftsman.

Solid Surface Shapes

Typically manufactured in sheet form for fabrication into finished countertops, solid surface can also be cast into a variety of shapes, including sinks, shower pans and bathtubs. Sheet goods can also be heated and bent into three-dimensional shapes using a process called thermoforming, which adds to the versatility of the product.

Solid Surface in Residential Setting

In a residential setting, solid surface can be used as kitchen countertops, bathroom vanity tops, and shower and tub surrounds. Countertop fabricators typically join solid surface sheets into desired shapes using a two-part adhesive, after which the cured joint is machined flat. The same method is used to build up edge thickness, which can be profiled using tools and techniques similar to those used to work hardwoods.

Impermeability of Solid Surface

A major appeal of solid surface is its impermeability. Solid surface sinks can be joined to the countertop surface with no gaps. This feature eliminates areas for water to collect and bacteria to grow. Integral backsplashes can also be created that follow the contours of the wall seamlessly and without gaps. Should the material become scratched or broken, solid surface can, in most cases, be repaired quickly by a certified solid surface repair company or trained fabricator. Cracked sinks can be replaced as well. Because the surface is solid throughout, a countertop that has undergone years of wear and tear can be refinished. The installed product is available in a variety of finishes, ranging from matte to high-gloss, although most manufacturers recommend a matte or satin finish for ease of maintenance.

Solid Surface Colors and Visual Textures

Solid surface is available in hundreds of colors and visual textures, ranging from solid colors to sparkling, marbleized, or granite effect. Dozens of multinational companies manufacture solid surface sheet goods and sinks for the world market; and hundreds of smaller, regional manufacturers produce for local markets.

Solid Surface Emerging Market

Although solid surface faces competition from natural stone and engineered stone/quartz surfacing, the material is popular in Asia, particularly in residential new construction. An emerging market for solid surface is in commercial and industrial settings, where its non-porous characteristics, combined with durability, renewability and formability make it the material of choice for many designers and architects. Also appealing, is the wide range of colors and textures, as well as the ability to custom-color the material for large projects. 

Looking for Man-made Alternatives

Hospitals, in particular, employ large amounts of solid surface for sinks, showers, nursing stations and wall cladding, because its seamless properties eliminate gaps and crevices that harbor harmful bacteria. Color and design flexibility are key factors when choosing engineered composites over natural stone. Most people are aware of the many drawbacks of natural stone countertops. This has led homeowners to look for man-made alternatives that can deliver similar color or appearances, but without the high maintenance or durability concerns.

Natural Stone or Solid Surface

Your decision between natural stone or solid surface will depend on a few important factors. Depending on your budget, your decorating style, and your willingness to perform maintenance, different types of countertops will suit your needs better than others.

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Sources

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solid_surface

hyundailncusa.com/blog/solid-surface-countertops-vs-quartz

www.rdmarble.com/blog/engineered-stone/stone-vs-solid-surface-countertops/