Choosing a worktop for the kitchen - a review of the basic materials

worktop kitchen units - is, in fact, an analogue of the table top.It is the part of the entire structure, which undergoes a maximum of all possible actions.This is not only a purely mechanical load, for example, cutting products.This impact and temperature (hot dishes), and moisture, and a variety of chemical compounds in the form of a shed at her sauces, essences and TP Therefore choose countertop only in appearance, "because it is so beautiful" - totally unreasonable waste of money.

seems to advise something in this regard, it makes no sense, as every sane person has his point of view on any subject.Perhaps we should make a small overview of some common types of countertops, indicating their advantages and disadvantages.But the choice - an individual matter.

should be remembered that the basic material of manufacture of most countertops are usually the same.It's either MDF or chipboard.Sometimes a layered plywood.And the rest - exterior finish.An important detail - the thickness of the plate, which varies from 2 to 6 cm is understood that the thicker, more expensive..But one can not overlook the fact that the thicker - so much stronger.However, if you planned to install the hob, the best option -. 3-5 cm

What makes MDF and particleboard?First - wood fiber.A DSP - a chipboard.There is no difference, except for one detail.CPD in its composition has a resin used in the production technology.Hence - some harmful fumes.Experts say that they may have a negative impact on the fragile (s) in the body.Although the products of particleboard are still cheaper.

materials for surface cladding applied both artificial and natural.Let's speak about common options countertops.

Finish laminate (plastic)

Probably the most "buy" type of countertops, which is designed for the mass market.This tabletop attracts the low price and good quality.She is strong, not afraid of strikes.However, it should be borne in mind that the "base" afraid of water.Therefore, when installing the sink need to take care of a good sealing of the edges and ends of the table top.Included are special sinks sealing cord.In addition, you should use a transparent and hermetic.

cover sheets can not be of the same size with any countertop - it is clear that they stick together.We need to look carefully if the seam is visible.With its high-quality finish should not be.

It is advisable to choose the width of the worktop slightly larger than the width of the headset.In this case, while working in the kitchen handles all kinds of cabinets and drawers will not cling to clothes.Particular attention should be paid to finish all edges and end surfaces.If they also are covered with plastic, it is not the best model.The qualitative side trim should be made of acrylic, polypropylene.Often used a steel edge.

Separate conversation - about the shade.Practice shows that from whatever material neither has made the surface of the kitchen table, her indelible stains remain after a certain time.It is advisable to choose the surface is not monotonous, and best of all, the darker.So spots will be less noticeable.

From the viewpoint of integrity of the coating preferably matt surface.Possible future scratches on glossy surfaces will be clearly visible.

Artificial stone countertops such

recently gaining in popularity.There are two kinds of bases (composite) for the production of finishing: sinter and acrylic.When you select should be used to ask about the composition (resins, fillers), as their variety is very large and you can get confused.The more so because each manufacturer has its own technology.

These countertops are durable.The coating has no seams, it does not absorb moisture.However, the acrylic surface can not withstand high temperatures, do not tolerate abrasive detergents, as is quite scratched.A sinter it all is not afraid, but nevertheless, and it has drawbacks.It "gives off" a cold and can not be restored.If we are spoiled by the surface, it can not be repaired.In other words - for single use.

Take into account that the artificial stone countertops expensive laminated every 6 - 8. But if the choice is made, it is better to buy a model of lighter tones, and with a large or medium coverage fraction.In this case, the possible scratches are not so visible.

is necessary to take into account such a moment - a coating of acrylic stone will seamlessly at any length.But in the agglomerate will seam at a length of more than 3 m countertops And every seam -. It is a place with time accumulation of various microorganisms.Facing glued to the substrate.Best of all, if it is layered plywood.Although there are also the basis of particle board, MDF.Coating thickness ranges from 3 to 12 mm.Practice shows that there is no difference, because the stone - a material strong.Although you need to bear in mind that the thicker the layer of artificial stone, the harder the entire worktop.However, it should be borne in mind that such a coating lends itself well to polishing.It is understood that the thicker it is, the greater number of times and can be polished.

countertop can be ordered entirely performed by, for example, the agglomerate.However, it should be understood that the weight and the price will be relevant.Naturally, the need to reduce the thickness.In this case, there is an option - a side.It's just a stick, and visually it increases the thickness of the entire countertop.As a rule, ordered plate of 3 cm, and that is enough.

probably one of the main conditions for the correct choice - warranty manufacturer and seller.We need to ask what is included in the guarantee and how long it is given.