A tabletop that can be cut with a knife
A headset that doesn’t need to be wiped clean every day
Glossy and matte kitchen sets have approximately the same number of fans. The former visually expand the kitchen space due to the effect of a mirror surface, which is especially important for small rooms. At the same time, fingerprints, splashes and other dirt are very clearly visible on the gloss.
As for matte headsets with a pronounced texture, for example, wood imitation, stains are practically not visible on them, but cleaning such surfaces takes a lot of time and effort. From a cleaning point of view, a smooth matte finish is the best option.
Now on to the question of color. All designers agree that a black headset will be the most impractical. Also dust and fingerprints will be clearly visible on dark purple, brown, solid colored facades. If you don’t want to do a weekly general cleaning of your kitchen with a rag and cleaning agent, choose kitchen sets in natural shades such as green, gray or blue. They should not be too dark or too saturated. Try to choose muted colors. Another good option is facades with imitation of wood texture or stone chips, patterns or interspersed with mother-of-pearl.
Please note: As for kitchen aprons, which suffer the most from external negative factors (splashes, grease, and so on), photo printing can best protect them. There is practically no pollution on it.
Easy-to-clean tiles
When choosing a tile for decorating a kitchen apron or walls in a bathroom, you must adhere to one main rule. it should be as practical and easy to clean as possible. That is, a wall covering with a pronounced texture will clearly not work. It will be very difficult to wash off dust, splashes of water, drops of grease and oil, and other contaminants from it. Smooth tiles are much more practical in this regard. Also, do not forget about choosing the right color. more spots are visible on dark colors than on light ones.
The same goes for the kitchen and bathroom floors. If you choose tiles as flooring, then choose smooth specimens with small seams. In this case, frequent wet cleaning will take much less time and effort. And the quality of cleaning will improve several times.
Sofa with removable covers
If there is a sofa in the kitchen or living room, which is combined with the dining room, you probably have to often clean it of crumbs, coffee stains and other dirt. To cut down on cleaning time and keep your furniture presentable, buy a sofa that you can put on a slipcover. In this case, even if you knock over a plate of food on it, you can easily remove the cover and wash it in the washing machine, and the sofa itself will hardly be damaged. You can also pay attention to sofas made of eco-leather. this material repels liquid, so you can not be afraid that you will damage the furniture if you accidentally spill sweet tea on it.
Another option is to abandon the traditional sofa, replacing it with an ordinary bench or podium, which, by the way, can be made with your own hands from ordinary pallets. To make the new piece of furniture more cozy and comfortable, place a mattress, a blanket and some pillows on it.
Bed linen that is easy to change
Changing bed linen often turns into a real torture, especially when it comes to the duvet cover. Therefore, it is best to select kits that are easy to change. For example, instead of a regular sheet, choose the option with an elastic band. it is easy to pull it over the mattress and does not need to be constantly corrected. Pillowcases and duvet covers should be bought with a side slit and a zipper, not buttons. By the way, there are many life hacks on the Internet related to how to quickly put on bedding. Take a few of them into service and then the process will take half the time.
You can also use a mattress topper that does not allow liquid to pass through. He will save the mattress from accidentally spilled tea or coffee.
Interior for the lazy: 6 ingenious solutions that will save you from the hassle of everyday life
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Worktop you can cut on
A cutting board is one of the most misplaced kitchen utensils. If you once again cannot understand where the board has gone, or you are simply too lazy to use it, think about purchasing a tabletop with a special coating. The material must be strong enough and of high quality so that a regular knife cannot scratch. There are several options for such surfaces:
MDF fiber boards. not only can you cut a loaf or meat on them, but also place hot pots and pans without a stand, since the surface is heat-resistant.
Artificial stone agglomerate. in the production of this material, a large amount of stone chips is used, which makes the surface as resistant to external damage as possible.
Natural stone (quartz, granite, etc.) is the most durable of all the above options, but also the most expensive.
Sophisticated storage systems
Most housewives cannot stand cleaning and collect their thoughts for a very long time to start it. However, when friends or relatives unexpectedly call and say they will be visiting in half an hour, cleaning becomes a priority. Tidying up quickly requires a pre-planned, spacious storage system. So, for example, there should be a few only half-filled drawers, shelves and crossbars in the cabinets so that there is where to place things that are usually scattered throughout the apartment.
Open and closed storage systems are worth considering as well. For example, in the kitchen or living room, you can arrange baskets or boxes into which you can quickly throw magazines, books or kitchen utensils that are not in their place. In the bathroom and bedroom, it is best to use closed storage, for example, drawers under the bed, so that you can quickly hide personal belongings.
You will find a few more interior design tips in the article Expensive and rich: how to make a budget interior look your best.
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Laminated chipboard and MDF boards
Easy to clean but also scratch easily, so they cannot be cut with a knife.
The place of the slot for the sink is treated with silicone
On
Glued timber is less prone to deformation and therefore more preferable.
From 3 thousand rubles
How to choose the right kitchen countertop material
Price is definitely important. But when choosing, it is important to take into account the properties of the material and the possible difficulties that may arise during its installation. We visually compare the materials of the countertops according to the main criteria.
Ceramic tile
Criterias of choice
Comparison. About what a countertop is, and what are the basic properties of various materials, you can read the article on our portal: “Materials for kitchen countertops”. The table below will allow you to visually compare the materials with each other according to the criteria listed in it.
Striving for the ideal. It is important to understand that each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. So, kitchen countertops made of wood are the most environmentally friendly, but, on the other hand, this is a very capricious material that has low resistance to all kinds of influences and requires constant care.
Metal
Cold. Resistant to high temperatures, chemical attack, humidity.
Hygienic, easy to clean.
On
Features of installation. Including these are the difficulties that can be encountered when the countertop in the kitchen is still at the stage of manufacturing or installation. For example, some materials (metal, chipboard) do not allow you to create a tabletop of an arbitrary shape; wood is more suitable for this.
Treatment. Here are the features of the care of each material.
How to choose the right countertop?
The kitchen worktop is one of the most important elements of your kitchen. Why is the countertop so important? Let’s speculate. This is the main work surface in the entire kitchen, which carries almost the entire load when you are preparing food. You put pots, bowls, plates and much more on it, the tabletop is often wet. With all this, she must maintain her beauty and practicality. And this is not a complete list of all the “aggressive” moments that the surface experiences during operation. It is always important to remember that the tabletop is covered with plastic, although heat-resistant, it is still plastic. Objects that have recently been on the stove and have been very hot (pans, pots, kettles, Turks, etc.) must not be placed on it; direct high-temperature exposure must not be allowed. But hot cups, plates with first courses, bowls and boiling water poured on them, etc. are allowed. If you want to remove a hot frying pan or saucepan from the stove, use all kinds of supports (metal, wood, stone, ceramic or some other). Also, please note that you cannot cut food on the worktop directly on the work surface without kitchen boards. The knife will leave cuts on it, which will become more noticeable over time and the surface will become unusable.
What are the countertops
First, let’s take a look at what types of countertops exist. Today, the most common type of countertop is a chipboard countertop covered with heat-resistant plastic. Plastic, in turn, is divided into: glossy, matte, structured and voluminous. This plastic has a variety of designs. Most often, there are drawings that imitate various stones: granite, marble and many others. Less often, but there are also many drawings for the structure of a tree. There are also monochromatic countertops, with a volumetric structure and even with volumetric patterns.
The plastic covering the countertop is heat-resistant, withstands temperatures from 100 to 190 C, depending on the manufacturer’s material. Such countertops are very easy to care for: just wipe it with a damp cloth or towel and it will be like new again. Even if the countertop is heavily soiled, this is not a problem. the plastic coating is quite strong and resistant, resistant to light abrasions, and household chemicals will not harm it. The countertop coating is also resistant to daylight and UV radiation, which makes this product suitable not only for use in our usual apartments, but in general in any room where you need a flat surface to work on. But that’s not all. let’s note one of its most important advantages. this coating is allowed to have direct contact with food! You do not have to worry about the health of your family and children at all, because the tabletop has an E1 hygiene class. Particleboard of class E1 is more environmentally friendly, its formaldehyde emission index is negligible.
Length and thickness of countertops
Countertops come in a variety of lengths and thicknesses. The thickness is 18 mm., 28 mm., 38 mm., 50 mm.
An 18 mm plate is used for “aprons” on the working area, its width is usually 60 cm, this is exactly the distance between the upper and lower bedside tables, and the length is usually 3 m. The thickness of the tabletops is 28, 38 and 50 mm. used for work surfaces on kitchen cabinets. The surface of the countertops can be matte, glossy, or textured. I want to note that the countertop is divided into two more types: not moisture-resistant and moisture-resistant (more expensive). But this does not mean that moisture resistant can be filled with water. This means that its exposed parts are more resistant to moisture. It is still necessary to follow the operating rules. At the end of the work, be sure to wipe the countertop dry. But if you correctly install an ordinary tabletop and follow all the instructions, then you will not have problems. You’ve probably heard stories of deflated work surfaces, and this is a prime example of improper installation. During installation it is necessary to use special connecting and end strips. Aluminum is desirable. The upper part of the connecting strip covers the seam, and thereby protects against moisture and debris from entering between the countertops, but in any case, the seam itself must be treated with sealants. The end strips are designed to be fixed at the ends of the table top that are near the plate so that they do not burn, having also previously treated them with sealants. Some countertops are equipped with a drip tray on the front under the bottom. This is a special ledge under the countertop on which a drop of water is retained and does not flow further to the unprotected part of the countertop. A plinth is provided for the back side of the countertop, which also prevents water from entering the unprotected parts; it must also be treated with sealants. In addition to everything, the kitchen skirting board also carries a decorative load, since it is made in the color of the countertop itself.
Other materials for countertops
The countertops are made from natural wood. They are made from hard species: oak, ash, hornbeam.
The thickness of such countertops is usually 3 or 4 cm. The wood is sawn, milled and then polished very carefully. After all the procedures, it is impregnated with special oils and waxes, which gives the countertop moisture resistance. But this kind of countertops are more delicate, and about once every 2 years they need to do prophylaxis: having previously cleaned the countertop, it must be covered with a special oil-wax.
Another material used is artificial stone. It contains up to 93% crushed quartz and mineral substance, and the rest is polyester and acrylic resins. Thanks to this material, the worktop in your kitchen can be of various shapes and without seams.!
It is very convenient and practical. The thickness of the countertops made of artificial stone is from 2 to 7 cm, most often. 4-6 cm. Such countertops have certificates of the international standard of ecology and safety. Thanks to this high-tech composite material, countertops are not afraid of household chemicals, very wear-resistant, acid-resistant and much more. Artificial stone countertops do not absorb moisture, dyes and grease. They can be easily washed with plain soap and water. It is very important that the countertops made of artificial stone are subject to repair and restoration.
Countertops made of natural stone are less commonly used, and if they are used, then granite is most often preferred: it is more durable than marble and does not absorb moisture. The shapes of such countertops are also different. In this case, the seams can be rubbed with special grouts.
Which countertop to buy. you choose based on your tastes, preferences and financial component.
What is the best kitchen work surface
| The thicker the cladding. the more expensive |
The main rule when choosing a work surface for the kitchen is to pay attention not to the name and brand, but to the composition of the cladding. For example, acrylic filled with 50% minerals, worse than 80%.
Artificial stone countertops. Liquid-filled quartz agglomerate worktop. really durable, but if you buy with sheet fill. it will be afraid of hot.
It is important how the corners are processed (with steel, stone, etc.)
If you are not tied to design, the best choice is a stainless steel tabletop with a relief texture (it is not for nothing that they are used in restaurants and cafes), then follows in terms of price-quality ratio. MDF with film is a good choice and, as an option, plastic. Of the expensive options. porcelain stoneware is not afraid of hot and can be cut with a knife.
Slab thickness
For acrylic models, the optimum thickness is at least 12 mm. For chipboard. 38 mm.
Kitchen countertop height table
| Growth | Table top height |
| 150 | 76 cm. |
| 150-160 cm. | 82 cm. |
| 160-170 cm. | 88 cm. |
| 170-180 cm. | 91 cm. |
| 180-190 cm. | 94 cm. |
| 190-200 cm. | 1m. |
Chipboard kitchen worktops
Most often, moisture-resistant chipboard countertops are made, covered with HPL-plastic or laminated. They are cheap, with proper installation and careful use, they can last a long time.
Which countertop to choose
| MDF with foil. best value for money. Porcelain stoneware and the surface of their artificial stone (quartz with pouring) are the best choice, if not limited in price. |
- MDF with film. such a surface will not last forever, but the best price-quality ratio.
- Made of plastic. very cheap and functional, suitable if you need it urgently, cheaply and for a short time.
- Porcelain stoneware and the surface of their artificial stone (quartz with pouring) are the best choice, if not limited in price.
- Embossed stainless steel. good for everything except design.
Choosing a material for the countertop
What material are they made of, what is stronger, and what material can be harmful?
Glass top
Pros: the frosted glass coating is durable (and tempered glass), not afraid of scratches, no handprints, not afraid of chemistry, withstands weight up to 100 kg.
Surprises: scratches appear over time, very expensive.
Plastic can be different in production technology (high pressure plastics (HPL). strong, durable, a large selection of colors) and low (CPL) pressure (they are less resistant to mechanical stress, they are used for the kitchen only if sinuous shapes are needed). HPL countertops imitate metal and stone well.
Pros: do not fade in the sun, wide decorative possibilities, cheap, high wear resistance, impact resistance, not afraid of knives, water, acids and household chemicals, retains color.
Surprises: They are afraid of hot (more than 180 ° C), plastic may peel off from hot, as there is glue. If not done correctly, cracks may appear, scratched. It is afraid of water if it gets into microcracks and then onto the chipboard base. Laminated work table is easier to replace than repair.
Pros: Not afraid of water, hot and other influences. Afraid of blows.
Surprises: grout turns yellow over time, uneven, requires manual work.
Gaining popularity in the West.
Pros: Strong, durable. Beautiful (can be marbled and so on, but Super Seal or sealant must be used). Can be painted in any color. Environmentally friendly.
Surprises: The sealant that needs to be treated is afraid of the hot. Can’t be cut. Difficult to dismantle and install.
On the pros and cons of the most popular materials
Each of us, sometime or will face in the near future with a renovation in the kitchen. And in addition to choosing a furniture base and facades, you have to choose a countertop. Choosing a countertop is not so easy. Color and texture are undoubtedly an important parameter, however, you need to pay attention to the surface material and its properties. The kitchen countertop is exposed to daily exposure to sharp knives, hot and heavy pans, constant exposure to moisture, various dyes and detergents. Therefore, the resistance of the countertop to all these factors should be maximized. This is exactly what will be discussed in our article.
We all know what granite is. But how does he behave in the kitchen? Will it withstand high temperatures or food acid?
Benefits
Granite is a natural material and that speaks for itself. The unique texture and beauty of the stone will not leave you indifferent. It is also not exposed to high temperatures, and if you put a hot pan on the countertop, then no damage will remain on the granite. When in contact with a knife or other metal objects, not a trace will remain on the surface. And your knife is likely to get dull.
This Knife Can Cut Anything!! (World’s Sharpest Knife)
disadvantages
Despite the significant number of advantages, granite also has disadvantages. Natural stones have a porous structure. It is unacceptable to spill coloring juices or wine. If they are not removed immediately, traces will remain. Spilling vinegar or lemon juice is guaranteed to leave a pale stain on your countertop. To extend the service life and preserve the appearance of the countertop, you need to constantly treat the surface with special water-repellent impregnations. As we learned earlier, the structure of granite is porous and this, among other things, affects its strength. Installation of such a tabletop should be done by professionals, otherwise the tabletop can simply burst in the hands of installers. When beating meat, you need to be careful and not put much effort.
A granite worktop is almost an ideal work surface for a kitchen, but you need to be on guard at all times and keep a rag “ready” to wipe off dangerous stains. Its background radiation will not go anywhere either. It is relatively small and harmless, but it causes a lot of fear.
Marble, a noble material that has been used since ancient times in interior decoration. But is it used to make kitchen countertops?
Benefits
The advantages of marble include the incredible beauty of the material. You won’t find two countertops alike, because the marble pattern is never repeated. The number of colors and textures is unlimited. Marble is not afraid of high temperatures. You can safely put hot pots and pans on it. With proper care, such a tabletop will last a very long time.
disadvantages
The main disadvantage of marble is the difficulty in care. He needs regular impregnations to repel dirt and water, because marble, like any natural stone, has a porous structure that promotes the absorption of moisture and the formation of bacteria. Do not spill water or colorants such as beet juice, coffee or wine. If the liquid is not removed quickly, it will absorb into microcracks and leave noticeable marks and lead to corrosion in the future. Among other things, the disadvantages include the radiation background inherent in all natural stones. It may differ depending on the field and the depth of occurrence. The fragility of marble is higher than that of granite, and exposure to sharp objects will surely leave scratches on the surface.
Marble is ideal for interior decoration, but it is not recommended to make tabletops out of it. This is a very capricious material and without proper care and a large set of specialized products, it will quickly lose its shine and natural beauty.
Quartz or quartz agglomerate is a composite material consisting of 95% quartz mineral and 5% of a binder. How does this material behave in the kitchen?
Benefits
Quartz agglomerate is currently the optimal material for the manufacture of countertops. It is not subject to scratches and abrasion, so your countertop will retain its original appearance for many years. Resistant to stains and dyes (coffee, wine, beet juice), various acids (vinegar, citric acid). Waterproof and non-porous surface, plus a bactericidal additive, prevents bacteria and mold from growing on the surface of the product. The material can withstand high enough temperatures and can easily withstand a hot frying pan. A wide variety of colors and textures will allow you to perfectly match the stone to your style of kitchen. Repetition of natural colors indistinguishable from natural granite or marble. Over natural stone, quartz has a number of advantages in bending strength, water resistance and bactericidal properties. Also, it has no background radiation, unlike marble or granite. Quartz agglomerate is an environmentally friendly material that does not cause allergies and is recommended for use in hospitals, kindergartens and other institutions. Ease of care, will make you forget about a variety of cleaning products and chemicals. It is enough to wipe the surface with a damp cloth and there will be no trace of dirt.
disadvantages
There are not many disadvantages of this material. These include the large weight of the product, similar to natural stones. It is impossible to make a table top with a length of more than 3 meters, without an assembly joint. The complexity of installation is slightly higher than that of acrylic or chipboard countertops. Mandatory installation of the product, with the help of the assembly team.
Quartz countertops are the best choice for the kitchen. The surface is not scratched, there will be no stains on it, it will not burst under its own weight. Hot items can be placed on it. Advantages over natural stones on the face. And the price category is at the level of acrylic (plastic) countertops.
Acrylic countertops, or more simply plastic, is the most popular material for making countertops. But what will happen to the surface if your knife has slipped off or you accidentally put a hot frying pan?
Benefits
Acrylic is a non-porous homogeneous material that is moisture-proof and resistant to household chemicals and dyes. It is shock and bend resistant. If you drop a plate on the countertop, it probably won’t even break. Acrylic products are made in a seamless way, so you will not be confused by the joints during operation. This material is easy to restore and repair. Scratches are easily polished, and more serious damage is subject to gluing, leaving no seams. The number of colors of acrylic stone is limited only by your imagination. Even an uncomplicated pattern can be depicted on such a tabletop.
disadvantages
In general, this is not a bad material for making countertops, but only as an alternative to laminated chipboard. You need to carefully handle the surface and then it will retain its original appearance for many years. Cut exclusively on cutting boards, and put hot pots on special stands.
| Chipboard |
Laminated chipboard is the most affordable material. But what do you get for not much money?
Benefits
Tabletop Terrain #Shorts. Cutting XPS foam with a knife
You will get an inexpensive material that is easy to replace if damaged. There are simply no restrictions on the color of the surface. You can choose absolutely any color and pattern. And this is where the listing of the benefits can be completed.
disadvantages
Chips, cuts, scratches and abrasions form very easily on the surface. If moisture gets into them, then swelling and bubbles form under the laminated film from the swollen wood. In no case should you put a hot frying pan on such a countertop, you will definitely leave a mark on the surface.
If you have a limited budget or you need to quickly and inexpensively update the appearance of your kitchen, then chipboard is a suitable option.
How to make the right choice
From the above, you can make up some tips for making the right choice. Acrylic stone is more affordable than quartz. This is due to the composition and complexity of processing. Quartz surfaces are heavier. Natural material is used more often for the production of kitchen countertops and sinks. Less commonly. for the manufacture of window sills and baseboards.
Externally, quartz can only be distinguished by a more pronounced pattern. The large number of shiny granules is due to the presence of quartz granules. It is worth looking closely at the river sand in order to understand. this is the same material from which the described stone is made.!
Acrylic stone is also relevant as countertops and other decorative and furniture elements. It is more affordable. Despite its “polymer” composition, acrylic is considered an elastic material. It bends more easily and takes shape better. Quartz cannot be bent. it will break, just like marble. Therefore, due to the practicality and affordability, many choose exactly acrylic bases. They are repaired without dismantling. If the surface is cracked, chipped, or otherwise damaged, the repairers under warranty can perform on-site refurbishment. Quartz is not recoverable in most cases or requires complex operations on special equipment outside the installation site. Define for yourself the key principles and operating conditions so that in the future you do not have the problems described above or unpleasant situations.
In order not to be mistaken in your choice, you should pay attention to the original products of well-known brands. For example, Samsung Tempest or Tristone. These companies provide an affordable and wide range of colors and textures of artificial stone that can be used to decorate different rooms of apartments and private houses.
findings
When making repairs in the kitchen or simply choosing furniture, you should carefully choose the material from which the countertop will be made. If we compare all the natural stones from which this product is made, quartz remains the best in operational and aesthetic terms, although it is not devoid of some drawbacks.
First of all, it should be noted that 90% of the quartz countertop is a product made of natural stone, which is an environmentally friendly and safe material for health. The product is unpretentious in maintenance, in order to wash away dirt or stain from it, household chemicals are not needed, everything is washed off from the smooth surface of the countertop with ordinary warm water. A quartz countertop is not afraid of mechanical damage and temperature, but if suddenly a scratch or crack appears on it due to careless use, restoration will be not only very expensive, but also extremely problematic, since special equipment will be needed. The main advantage of the product is that it is durable and retains its appearance for a long time.
Quartz countertop pros and cons
Quartz countertop pros and cons
Quartz agglomerate countertops are relatively recent, but quickly became popular. The material is made from quartz chips, dyes and polyester resin. It is similar in appearance to natural stone, but what about its performance characteristics? Before buying, you should figure out what makes this material stand out from others, what are its pros and cons.
disadvantages
It is impossible not to mention the cons:
Benefits of quartz countertops
Heat resistance
The issue of heat resistance is especially relevant for those who have chosen a light tone of the product: many materials can turn yellow or darken from exposure to high temperatures. But the agglomerate is not afraid of temperature extremes and heat effects. It will not melt, deform, crack and change its color if you put a hot pan on it, spill boiling water if the countertop is adjacent to the stove, as well as in other situations. The product can withstand temperatures up to 280 ° C. This does not mean that you can once and for all give up potholders and coasters, but it is a short-term exposure. But if you suddenly do not use them and put the pan on the counter for a short time, it will not be damaged. It is worth noting that quartz agglomerate is not afraid of negative temperatures, as well as sudden temperature changes, so it can be used even outdoors.
Moisture resistance
The agglomerate does not absorb moisture, so if water gets on it, the tabletop will not deform or swell. The material is ideal for wet rooms: it will not deteriorate if exposed to moisture on a regular basis. It is not for nothing that not only countertops are made from it, but also sinks. It is also chosen when looking for the optimal material for swimming pools and saunas.
Ease of maintenance
It is easy to remove dirt from a quartz agglomerate countertop, since the material is monolithic, not porous, and therefore does not absorb anything. To make the countertop clean, it is enough to wipe it with a damp cloth or soapy water (dishwashing detergent or a special detergent for countertops is also suitable, the main condition is that they must be liquid and non-abrasive). If there is old stuck on the surface, it can be easily removed with mustard powder, lemon juice, baking soda or 5% wine vinegar.
Resistant to chips and scratches
On the tabletop, without the help of a cutting board, you can cut vegetables, meat or other products with any knives other than ceramic ones, and this will not affect its integrity. True, we do not recommend getting carried away with this, since strong mechanical stress can still leave marks on the surface.
Variety of colors and shapes
The tabletop is made for a specific client, and thanks to a special technology, it can be given almost any shape, so you can embody even the most original ideas. The advantage of the material is also the expensive look and richness of the color palette: more than a thousand textures. You have at your disposal both classic and original shades, for example, green, orange, red, blue, etc. there are much more options than when working with natural stone. This is due to the fact that in the manufacture of countertops, the master can use various dyes.
Solidity
The surface of the countertop is absolutely smooth, without cavities, pores and cracks. You can safely leave and cut food on it. And if you spill tea or coffee on it, the liquid will not absorb into the countertop and stain it. All traces can be easily removed with a damp cloth.
Antibacterial properties
Due to the solidity of the agglomerate countertop, household pollution is not terrible, it does not absorb odors, bacteria and microorganisms cannot multiply in it, fungus or mold will not start. The material is often chosen for kindergartens, schools, medical institutions and other institutions with increased sanitary requirements.
Resistance to household chemicals, acids and alkalis
We do not recommend using the listed products for regular maintenance of the countertop. it is best to choose mild, gentle products. But if you still prefer more aggressive options, the tabletop will not lose its appeal.
Durability and color stability
All of the above properties make the agglomerate countertop quite durable: it will serve you for many years, retaining its appearance and functionality.
QUARTZ countertop in the kitchen. Pros and cons of QUARTZ AGGLOMERATE.
Good afternoon friends!
We are finishing our editions dedicated to countertops, there will be many interesting editions about design, mistakes in kitchens, myths, etc. We dedicated this video to the most popular material for countertops. quartz stone (quartz agglomerate).
No specific manufacturers were cited, because all quartz in the world is produced using a single technology, which was created and patented by the Italian company Breton. You will learn everything about QUARTZ, what are the pros and cons of a countertop made of quartz agglomerate, what properties it has, how to care for it, and how not to make a mistake with the choice.
All quartz in the world is produced using a single technology, which was developed and patented by the Italian company Breton. Therefore, the main differences between manufacturers come down only to the color solutions they use to produce this material, and the cost of human resources to implement this process.
Also, the cost of quartz depends on the pattern, the simpler and more monotonous it is, the cheaper the countertop will be, the pronounced and coarse texture will cost more!
Quartz has many fakes that do not meet quality standards and are offered on the market at tempting prices, so always ask for product certifications.!
In order for our video to be even more useful, write in the comments what material your countertop is from at home, and why you chose this particular material?
Also add to my Instagram, there are many interesting things =). I will leave a link in the description of this video.
Quartz stone is a composite material created from natural quartz chips with the addition of polymer resins and pigments. The composition of the quartz stone includes:
– 94% natural quartz chips;
– 5% synthetic resins;
– 1%. color pigments.
The resin is the binder, and the pigments color the mass in the required colors.
Quartz stone is produced in the form of slabs, which are usually called “slabs” or slabs, to whom it is convenient to pronounce it. (from the English slab. slab, plate).
The dimensions of the slab are almost the same for all manufacturers: approximately 3000 x 1400 mm. The thickness is different, but most often it is 12 and 20mm. Quartz stone is a rather heavy material. A square meter of 20 mm thick quartz weighs 52 kg. Quartz stone is similar to granite in its hardness and resistance to mechanical damage. Due to the high content of natural quartz, the processing of the material requires special expensive equipment and high qualifications of the processor. This is a laborious process, so the cost of the product depends significantly on the method of processing the ends and other complex parts. The surface of the quartz stone has a noble natural shine of natural stone. You can see how quartz countertops look on kitchen sets on our website, I will leave a link to the site in the description.
So let’s take a look at the pros and cons of a quartz stone:
Pros of quartz stone
1. Quartz stone is a very hard and durable material. Quartz stone surfaces are resistant to damage and abrasion. You will have to try hard to leave a scratch on the quartz countertop;
2. The variety of facet chamfers makes quartz a versatile material for kitchens in any style from classic to loft;
3. In a quartz countertop it is possible to install a bottom-mounted sink, it is also possible to make a sink from the same stone as the countertop, it will be completely straight, I usually discourage this option because dirt accumulates in the corners of this sink and it is quite problematic to remove it ;
4. Due to the fact that quartz lends itself well to milling, it is possible to install the hob flush with the worktop, But I also do not recommend this installation method, because as a result of heating, the glass-ceramic expands and it needs an expansion gap, this gap between the glass and the cooking hob is filled with a thermal sealant, which over time loses its original properties and requires replacement;
5. Quartz stone is not afraid of exposure to aggressive chemicals, in particular, acids and solvents;
6. Quartz is not a porous material, so bacteria and mold do not grow in it. Quartz stone surfaces meet all hygiene standards. It is used not only in the kitchen, but also in medical laboratories, food enterprises and in children’s institutions;
Does not absorb dyes! Spilled coffee, tea and even brightly colored fruit juice do not stain the surface of the quartz stone countertop;
8. Surfaces made of quartz stone withstand well short-term exposure to high and low temperatures. they do not deform, and do not lose color;
9. An important advantage of quartz is color stability during production. This is what you will not find in natural stone. Having chosen the color of the quartz agglomerate, you do not have to worry about the fact that the sheets will differ in shade or pattern;
10. Products made of quartz stone practically do not require any special maintenance. If it is recommended to regularly rub surfaces made of granite and marble with wax or special mastics, then all dirt and stains from quartz can be easily removed with a sponge and a non-abrasive detergent;
11. Large range of colors, quartz countertops can be matched to any interior, there are both monochromatic surfaces and imitation of natural marble, and some manufacturers even offer textures with semi-precious stones;
12. Quartz stone has a perfect gloss, also some decors can be matte and textured;
13. The backsplash of the countertop can also be made of quartz, and if you don’t like it, there is an opportunity to make a one-piece apron, which will create an overall holistic picture along with the countertop.
Cons of quartz stone:
Quartz stone slabs cannot be joined seamlessly. The slab joint is inconspicuous, but will be visible. There are some technologies that allow you to make it invisible at a distance of more than 1m;
2. Quartz countertop is tactilely cold;
3. In quartz. There are no wood-like decors, and a rather small range of matte decors, in contrast to porcelain stoneware;
4. Limited range of texture solutions;
5. Quartz stone does not bend, unlike acrylic, so it cannot be used to create curved countertops;
6. Quartz is heavy, with a thickness of 20 mm square meter to carry 52 kg. therefore, it is required to use reinforced supports on the kitchen set and a specially made metal frame on the bar counter with a length of more than 60 cm;
7. Quartz does not lend itself to restoration, unlike acrylic stone, so if you damage the countertop, it threatens to replace the entire countertop;
8. If you put a hot frying pan on quartz for a long time, then as a result of thermal shock, the countertop may burst, therefore, I recommend using boards to avoid direct contact of the quartz surface with a hot object;
9. The high cost of the product, when compared with the chipboard countertop, also influences the cost by the size of the countertop, the more likely the countertop will take up a slab or half of it, the lower the price per square meter will be;
10. Do not cut anything with a knife directly on the surface of the countertop: the knives become blunt very quickly, and traces of metal remain on the countertop;
11. Although the surface of quartz is almost impossible to damage, strong impact on a small area can lead to scratches. Make sure that, for example, when rinsing lettuce leaves, no grains of sand remain on the work surface. Placing a full pot on top can scratch the countertop;
12. With prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays, the quartz countertop can fade, therefore, quartz is not used for outdoor decoration in those places where direct sunlight will fall on it;
13. To measure a quartz countertop, an already installed kitchen set is required, because the slightest error in dimensions and your countertop may not fit, and cutting quartz in place is quite problematic.
In general, quartz countertops are a very decent material. I definitely recommend it for use in the kitchen area.
If you are looking for a comfortable kitchen, we are always happy to help you
Furniture in the interior:
interior and furniture studio CAPPUCCINO
Odessa, Balkovskaya st., 137G
tel: (048) 770-50-15
Pros and cons of quartz agglomerate countertops
Hot dishes can be placed on these countertops. They are not afraid of aggressive washing and are more like natural stone. On countertops more than 3 m long, there will be seams, but after processing they are almost invisible. Agglomerate countertops are harder to restore than acrylic counterparts and feel colder to the touch. Such a product can only be transported in an upright position.
Care and maintenance rules
A table top made of artificial stone, care and cleaning for them is not laborious process and does not require any sacramental knowledge and skills. It is enough to follow simple rules.
- Do not put hot objects on acrylic: hot pans, hot kettles and pots, use coasters for mugs with tea and coffee.
- Do not use hard metal brushes or sponges. After that, only the master can remove scratches, and this is an extra waste.
- Be careful about household chemicals that you plan to use for cleaning. Read the composition. usually there is a mark in the description whether the product is acceptable for acrylic stone or not.
- Do not cut coloring food without a cutting board. Purple cabbage and onions will leave bright spots, spilled coffee or tea should be immediately removed with a clean cloth.
- If you need to cut something, then use special boards and rugs. a sharp knife will easily scratch the surface.
- Remove dirt immediately.
- To avoid long and tedious washing, the simplest thing is to remove all the dirt at once. Spilled something, spilled something. don’t be lazy and clean it up as soon as possible.
Stone Countertop Care
Countertops made of natural or artificial stone have long gained popularity among all segments of the population. They are attractive in appearance, extremely functional, and affordable. It is worth noting their great wear resistance.
Caring for a stone countertop is not difficult, and knowledge of simple rules in this matter will greatly simplify the life of any housewife.
How to remove scratches and chips from stone surfaces
If you nevertheless managed to scratch the marble or granite countertop, dropped something heavy and now you can see a clear chip or crack, do not try to remove the damage yourself. The most correct thing is to call a master who will carefully polish the countertop and return it to its original appearance.
The table top is not diamond
Do not forget that no matter how strong an artificial stone is, it is not the strongest on earth and is subject to mechanical stress.
How to clean an acrylic stone countertop
Artificial stone countertops are practical and comfortable, but with improper care, no material will survive the period set by the manufacturer. It is necessary to take care of them carefully, and to treat the operation process itself with care.
How to remove stains, plaque and scratches
Which compositions can be used and which are not recommended
For all the durability of artificial stone countertops, aggressive agents must not be used to clean and wash them. Especially if they contain strong acids of inorganic origin: hydrochloric and phosphate, acetone and other solvents are harmful.
Various gels such as Sif, Effect or Sonata and others that do not contain caustic components are perfect.