Make it work for you
SOLID SURFACE COUNTER Solid surfaces make a practical and stylish choice for bathrooms. Here’s what you need to know before you buy…
Sleek, hygienic and easy to keep clean, these stylish countertops can be gently curved to avoid sharp edges, and they offer the feel good factor of being reassuringly warm and soft to touch. Q What is solid surface? Solid surface is a manmade material formed from stone and mineral dust, acrylic, resin and pigments. Also known as composite stone, solid surfaces are flexible, and can be seamlessly thermoformed to create curves and shapes.
QIS
it similar to Corian?
Corian invented solid surface and remains one of the best-known brands, but several manufacturers are now making it, such as LG HI-MACS and Staron. Ingredients and quality vary between manufacturers – cheap solid surfaces may not offer the same performance or durability as top-end brands.
Qwhy
are solid surfaces good for bathrooms?
Solid surface material can be used to make countertops, basins and baths. Being waterproof is an obvious pro, but it’s also much warmer than ceramic, harder than acrylic and offers excellent stain resistance.
Q
Are there any drawbacks?
The good stuff is pricey compared with laminate and granite. You can buy it off-thepeg in single lengths but any jointing, curves or cutting must be done by a specialist fabricator, which will bump up costs. Allow around two weeks between templating and installation.
Qwhat
about maintenance?
Solid surface won’t scratch easily but any marks can be polished out. Some makers supply a DIY repair kit, or you can get a specialist repairer in if necessary. A damp microfibre cloth and mild soap is all you need for general cleaning.
“The seamless versatility of solid surface adapts to any design, while its non-porous, hygienic properties make it for” mould-resistant and easy to care