Countertop
In couple of centuries ago, the only option for countertops was stone or granite. Over time, due to the complexity of mining granite and stone, the stone was replaced by new materials with different aesthetic, which despite the high price, do not meet all the requirements of interior designers.
The kitchen is one of the most important parts of the house, so supposed to focus on the decoration of the kitchen. In addition to the aesthetic appearance, there are some factors for choosing appropriate countertop which is important for housewives. Ease of removing oils, protection of cabinets against impact, resistance to scratches and washability with a variety of detergents are some of these factors.
Types of Countertops
Here, we have briefly reviewed the features, installation methods and applications of common types of countertops in kitchens due to find out better and make a smarter decision.
Wooden Countertops
Wooden countertops are produced from wooden panels in different dimensions and colors. This type of countertop without veneer has a long life and high durability depending on maintenance and use. The wooden countertop is characterized by its high durability, but it is preferred to have a veneer to achieve more durability. The price of wooden countertops is usually high and depends on the type of wood. Wooden countertop is easy to install due to its light weight.
Granite Countertops
Granite is the most popular countertop. Of course, granite's resistance to water, impact and scratches, washability with all kinds of detergents, high durability, and its aesthetics appearance have made granite more popular among countertops. But this is not the end of story. Today granite is less used for two main reasons. First, the price of natural stone is rising sharply due to limited natural resources and the difficulty of the manufacturing process. As a result, a large part of those interested in this type of decoration have turned to artificial stones or, more precisely, PVC products. The second reason is some defects of stones, such as the possibility of insects accumulating between the joints, not washable, heavy weight, dangerous to earthquake-prone places, etc.
MDF & HDF Countertops
Medium and High-Density Fiberboards (MDF and HDF) are composite wood products traditionally formed by breaking down softwood into wood fibers. this type of countertops made from veneered MDF and HDF. MDF and HDF countertops are durable, impact-resistant and washable. This type of countertops is usually affordable.
Marble Countertops
Marble (Alabaster) is the oldest and most popular countertop due to its beautiful and natural appearance. One of the main disadvantages of marble countertops is its weakness against knocks and scratches. It is not suitable for large or crowded kitchens, but it can be used as a kitchen table. Alabaster is metamorphic stone that cannot resist against chemicals and acids, and for this reason cannot be washed by different detergents. Marble is the best choice for kitchens with classic cabinets.
PVC Countertops
Polyvinyl chloride (abbreviated: PVC) is a thermoplastic polymer that is widely used in new construction technology. PVC is an economical building material and in recent years it has become a suitable substitute for clay and wood, etc. PVC is also used in the manufacture of wallcovering.
Waterproof, impact-resistant, scratch-resistant, washable by a variety of detergents, quick & easy installation, light weight and self-extinguishing are some of advantages of PVC countertops.
Garnet
Garnet is the new generation of countertop made from Topsheet (marble sheet), designed and produced by Topco Industrial Group using the newest technology in the world. Garnet is produced by bending PVC panels (Topsheet) like a book shape and injecting space between two panels with polyurethane foam. It is worth noting that UV varnish makes Garnet scratch-resistant.
One of the advantages of garnet is its standard packaging. Which in addition to its aesthetic appearance, is resistant to impact and environmental changes when carried.
In addition to the countertop, also Garnet can be used as tables for restaurants, meetings, lobbies (waiting rooms) and reception desks.
Comparison between Garnet and stone countertops: lighter, acid resistant, large size (slab) and much more affordable
Comparison between Garnet and wooden countertops: 100% waterproof, insect-resistant, free of toxic gases (formaldehyde, asbestos)
Why Garnet?
Waterproof
Garnet is made from PVC and polyurethane which is 100% waterproof. Therefore, Garnet is an excellent substitute for common countertops.
Self-Extinguishing
Garnet is non-flammable and has high thermal resistance.
Light Weight
Garnet is a great substitute for stone in interior designs. Due to its light weight and high strength in terms of feasibility study, it is economical and transportation of the product to the installation site became easy and inexpensive.
Quick & Easy Installation
The large size and light weight of Garnet’s boards make installation process faster and easier. Also, Garnet is installed using special adhesive glue without using traditional building materials.
Scratch-Resistant
UV varnish makes Garnet scratch-resistant.
