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Counters are one of the most important elements
of any kitchen, providing a universal workspace to perform various
tasks in the kitchen. As mentioned earlier, counters should provide
the minimum suggested workspace adjacent to other kitchen elements,
such as sinks and appliances.
While some kitchens have varied heights of counters, the universal
height is 36-inches from floor to counter top. Once minimum suggested
counter space has been met, other design considerations might include
additional counter space, type of counters, counter height, cost,
and placement.
Counter tops come in a wide variety of materials; the most common
being particle board or plywood, covered with high-pressure laminate
plastic. This material comes in an infinite assortment of styles,
colors; by numerous manufacturers. It is the most economical choice.
Especially when purchased pre-manufactured in the needed dimensions.
Units commonly come with the counter and backsplash as one pre-formed
piece. The down side is that laminates can be less durable and scratch
or stain more easily than other counter material choices.
The next step up in material choice is ceramic tile; also available
in nearly endless style and color selections, in sizes of less than
1-inch to 12-inches square. Some installations of ceramic tile are
done with construction adhesive on a plywood core, and then grouted
when adhesive is cured.
The recommended method is using a combination of plywood covered
with cementboard or concrete-impregnated Masonite, for an overall
thickness of at least 1¼-inches before applying the ceramic
tile. Tile is adhered to the cementboard either with construction
adhesive, or preferably with thin-set mortar; yielding a counter
resistant to water.
Another step up in quality, appearance, and cost is natural stone;
such as granite, marble, flagstone, onyx, or sandstone. Solid stone
counters are considered to be the utmost in extravagance and beauty.
They are one of the most durable surfaces available for countertops,
which may very well outlast the kitchen.
While solid stone is one the most expensive options in counter
tops, there are some drawbacks. If the counter becomes scratched,
cracked, or otherwise damaged, the whole counter top may have to
be replaced.
One way to reduce the cost of a natural stone counter is to get
it in squares; usually 12-inches, and then install it like ceramic
tile. Not only is it a more economical way to achieve the beauty
of stone, but single tiles can be replaced if damaged. Another variation
of natural stone is a concrete counter top; using cement and small
natural stones. The cement is poured in a form with the stones arranged
so that they will be exposed in the final top surface of the counter.
Probably the most expensive choice in counter tops is stainless
steel. Stainless steel is becoming increasingly popular because
of its sleek appearance; also due to the fact that it is the most
hygienic choice because of ease of sterilization. Choices in style
may be somewhat limited, with fewer manufacturers. While some manufacturers
offer some basic standard sizes, most stainless steel counters are
custom-built to order.
Counter Top Edge Options
Edge treatments add the finishing touch to any counter top. There
are usually one of four styles from which to select:
- Square edge – the most common; used with
laminates, wood, and ceramic tile.
- Bullnose edge – a practical, safe edge
treatment with a rounded rim; often found on pre-formed laminate
counters.
- Ogee edge – accomplished with only certain
materials. Laminate counters with a hardwood edge are covered
with the laminate, and then a router is used on the square edge
to make either an angled or rounded edge. Exposing the beauty
of the hardwood beneath.
- Sandwich edge – features layers of wood,
metal, or colors sandwiched between layers of laminate or stone
for decorative appeal.
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