Countertops Flashcards
Describe laminate countertops.
High pressure laminate (HLP) has a wide selection of colours, patters, textures and technical finishes and are offered in sheets by many brands
Pros and cons of laminate countertops.
Pros: Affordable, stain proof, and easy to clean
Cons: Not durable, edges chip easily, can bubble and warp of exposed to water, and can’t be repaired which means it has a shorter lifespan.
*under mount sinks cannot be installed with laminate countertops
Describe granite countertops
Granite is an all natural, porous stone that requires sealing.
Pros and cons of granite countertops
Pros: heat, stain and water resistant when sealed correctly. Adds resale value
Cons: If not sealed correctly, it can stain and harbour bacteria.
It is very heavy and prone to cracking if not properly supported
Describe quartz countertops
A man made material and offered in a wide variety of colours, patterns in large slabs
Pros and cons of quartz
Pros: does not need to be sealed, provides more durability than granite and marble, low maintenance, long lasting, beautiful, easy to clean, heat resistant, and non porous.
Cons: expensive, difficult to install
Describe marble countertops
-Is an all natural porous stone that requires sealing.
-patterns give a luxurious look
Pros and cons of marble
Pros: adds value to house, can last long if maintained and sealed, looks beautiful
Cons: one of the most expensive countertops, since it’s softer and porous, it stains and scratches very easily and can fade if in contact with acidity
Describe wood countertops
-Butcher block style countertops are constructed from pieces of hardwood laminated together with glue for strength and stability.
-allows for a quieter kitchen and is warm
Pros and cons of wood countertops
Pros: soft and porous making it heat resistant, if damaged it can be restored by resurfacing
Cons: must be treated with a food safe protective coating, and requires maintenance
Describe solid surface countertops
A man made composite material used for many residential and commercial applications
Pros and cons of solid surface countertops
Pros: homogenous material meaning it is the same all the way through.
It is affordable, durable and can easily be cleaned since it’s non Porous.
Cons: scratches are very visible on dark colours and is not heat resistant
