On Fri 20 Jun 2008 10:27:17a, Nancy Young told us...

> Wayne Boatwright wrote:
>
>> Having said that, there
>> are larger tiles of natural materials like granite, quartz, soapstone,
>> or other materials, that are perfectly flat edge to edge and can be
>> set with the barest minimum of group lines.
>
> I am considering that look. My countertops are not easily
> replaced as I have an appliance garage set on the counter
> in one corner.
>
>
>> Modern laminates are not necessarily a poor choice. They have higher
>> heat resistance than they used to, are easily cleaned, are more stain
>> resistant, require no sealing, and are far more economical should
>> replacement be necessary. Many of the patterns available now are
>> quite attractive.
>
> Laminate accumulates tiny scratches that you wouldn't notice
> on a light color, but if you choose a darker color, it will show
> as a white fog. I'm careful with my dark formica for that reason.
> Say I'm opening a can, I put the can on a towel or something.
> Like that.

There are liminates and there are solid-core liminates where the color goes
all the way through. You would not see white showing through an abrasion
or scratch on a dark laminate with the latter.

>> Solid surface materials like Corian also have many good attributes and
>> are available in many attractive patterns.
>
> I see they have more attractive choices, I saw one one show
> they call it having 'movement', I call it not being so lifeless and
> dull as the early stuff.

The first Corian countertop I ever saw looked just like a slab of vanilla
fudge. No character at all. Not so now, as you know.

>> Making a decision on a countertop material can be daunting with the
>> variety available. Far too many people are "caught up" in the
>> marketed popularity of granite and other high end products.
>
> I joke that I was a rock in my former life. I love rocks. Before
> HGTV was a dream someone thought up, I loved granite counters.
> I just didn't know that they were in reach for regular people. My
> one regret with my kitchen.

Unfortunately, even low-end natural stone counters are too high-end for my
budget. Luckily, I'm quite happy with what I have.

--
Wayne Boatwright
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Friday, 06(VI)/20(XX)/08(MMVIII)
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I can't grow up -- I'm too old!
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