Breaking Down The Differences Between Ultracompact Surfaces And Solid Surface Countertops

The installation of solid surface countertops and ultracompact surfaces has been very common lately. These two countertop materials have been increasingly getting popular these past few years. Homeowners and builders are constantly asking for these two countertop options for their construction and remodeling projects. But how do you pick between two incredible materials? Making the decision on the counters that best fit with your lifestyle and particular design preferences can be quite difficult. This is why Precision Countertops will guide you through the differences between ultra compact surfaces and solid surface countertops. If you would like to learn the pros and cons of each material, make sure to follow along with us!

Solid Surface Countertops

This countertop option is very low maintenance. It is popular for it’s repairable and nonporous qualities that make it easy to keep them in tip-top shape. Solid surfaces are made by pouring acrylic, stone pieces, resin & other chemicals into a mold. This material is fabricated and heated with high temperatures to form top sheets of sinks, countertops, bathtubs, shower pans, vanity tops and more. It is known to be a very versatile & durable kitchen and bath countertop. It is often used as a popular alternative to wood or stone. Before you choose solid surface countertops, consider the pros and cons below.

1. Pros of Solid Surfaces

• Durability – They have seamless features that make this material consistent on every level. You will not find any chips, cracks, or loose ends that will start any damage. It’s an impact resistant countertop option that goes very well in the kitchen.
• Nonporous – Solid surface countertops have an ability to be joined to your kitchen sink without leaving any gaps. They will create a watertight transition that eliminates any hidden areas that are moist where mildew and mold may proliferate.
• Easy Maintenance – It has a homogenous quality that will allow you to wipe stains down easily. This quality will also enable low maintenance and easy cleaning. All you will need is soap, water, & mild abrasive household cleaners to clean them off.
• Resistant to Scratches – One of the best advantages of solid surface countertops is its scratch resistant quality. You can easily scrub out scratches that is why this is a great countertop material to have in the kitchen.
• Versatile – Solid surfaces come in a broad range of patterns and designs that would suit your preference & may potentially mimic stone countertops, granite, or wood. It is also good to know that you can fabricate & shape it to fit your space.

2. Cons of Solid Surface Counters

• Heat Vulnerability & Deep Scratches – You can get damages like discoloration from high heat applications. Make direct cuts to its surface may also hurt the material. Anytime you are cooking or baking, we suggest you use trivets, hot pads, & cutting boards.
• Vulnerable to Certain Chemicals – They are not immune to any liquids that contain harsh chemicals like oven cleaners, lacquers, or polish remover. Certain chemicals may damage your kitchen counters.

Ultracompact Surfaces

This countertop material is sneaking its way into the radar of kitchen remodels. It is virtually indestructible, stain proof, scorch proof, and scratch proof as well. Ultracompact surfaces are created from a combination of glass, porcelain, and quartz material. It is a fairly new countertop material created through a very unique fabrication process known as Sinterized Particle Tech. This process basically involves the mix of raw elements under high temperatures and extreme pressure. Follow along to learn the good the bad and the ugly!

1. Pros of Ultracompact Surfaces

• Durable -Very durable! You can slice on them, whack them, or even sit on them and they will hold up just fine. You can find this kind of durability in many countertop materials but ultracompact will not stain like stone will. You also will not need sealing or have to worry about discoloration from food products.
• Heat resistant – If you are looking for a heat resistant countertop for your kitchen or bathroom then this is a great option for you. It is quite tolerant to high temperatures but we still would not recommend you try and set it on fire.
•  Large slab sizes – One great con to looking into ultracompact surfaces is the fact that they come in large slab sizes! Imagine all that you can do with so much material!
• Good for Indoors and Outdoors – No matter whether you are thinking to get your ultracompact surface countertops installed indoors or in your outdoor kitchen, they will last. All you have to do is take good care of them.

2. Cons of Ultracompact Surfaces

• Limited Fabricators and Installers – It is true. Not many people fabricate or install these countertops so if you are interested in learning more contact us today. We are more than happy to guide you through the in and outs for your kitchen remodel project.
• Limited Availability for Purchase – Because not many people install or fabricate this countertop material, that means that not many companies carry it either. Precision Countertops is one of the companies that do! We are here to help with your modern kitchen!

Which Kitchen Countertop Should I Pick For My Home?

Now that we have listed the pros and cons of both solid surface countertops and ultracompact countertops, it is time to choose. If you are still having trouble choosing then we invite you to our showroom. You can ask our designers all the questions that come to mind and we will guide you through our selection. For more related content be sure to visit the blog. Contact us today for more. (503) 660-3023