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Countertop Glossary:

Backsplash - formed material, usually 2.5" high, offering a water guard between the countertop and the wall.

Build-up - 3/4" strips of material attached to the under-side of counter tops to raise the entire counter flush with the top of cabinets-to be used with European style-frameless cabinets.

Corian® - a brand of solid surface material made by DuPont which offers a non-porous, repairable, renewable surface and with the ability to integrate sinks.

Gloss - a term used to describe a finish, which has a deep shine and smooth texture

Integrated - forming a solid surface sink to a solid surface countertop, which provides Seamless™ feature with no crevices for dirt and grime to get into.

Laminate - a thin 1/32" material adhered to a particle board substrate, which can be formed around radii by using heat and pressure - often referred to as brand names such as 'Formica' or 'Arborite'.

Matte - a term used to describe a finish, which is smooth to the touch but has very little shine - the most practical and recommended finish for Corian®.

Mitre - a seam in a countertop, usually in a corner, where the counter changes direction.

Nosing - a term used to describe the edge treatment of a countertop.

Post-form - a method of manufacturing laminate counter tops where the laminate is heated and formed around a pre-determined shape of substrate (can only be done in parallel lines).

Solid Surface - a non-porous, repairable, renewable material, made mostly of acrylic, which offers unparalleled design flexibility and a hygienic surface, often referred to as "Corian", which is a brand of solid surface manufactured by DuPont™.

Under-mount - a method of adhering certain sinks to the under-side of countertops, allowing for easy clean-up and greater design flexibility.

Edge Profile - samples of standard styles

       Eased               Round Over           Bevel 
  

Corian® FAQ's:

    2. Why is color so important?
    Your kitchen countertop is the center-piece of your home and is the area where most of the time at home is spent. The color of your countertop is important because it completes and complements the design of your home, reflecting your style and taste.

    3. How long does it take to order my countertop?
    Generally, a week to 10 days from the date of template.

    4. What should I know about sinks before ordering my countertop?
    a. Type of material you would like the sink made of: i.e. stainless steel, acrylic, etc.
    b. Dimensions of your sink cabinet
    c. Number of bowls and bowl sizes: i.e. single bowl, double bowls, 1 1/2 bowls
    d. Material quality - different grades of stainless steel will vary in cost
    e. Under-mount, integrated, or drop-in.
    - An under-mounted sink can be achieved in any surface.
    - An integrated sink can be achieved in solid surface only. This allows for easy clean-up and better hygienic    qualities to your kitchen
    - A drop-in is your least expensive and typical with laminate counters.

    5. What does under-mounted sink mean ... ?
    It is a style of sink which is made with a flat flange so that the sink can be affixed to the countertop from the under side. This allows for easy clean-up.

    6. How is Corian® different from other materials?
    With virtually unlimited design possibilities, Corian® has a distinct advantage over other materials:
    · Design possibilities are multiplied with the ever-evolving color palette, currently exceeding 100 colors.
    · Custom and versatile designs can be achieved by combining Corian® with countless other materials, such as    brass, tile, granite, wood, glass or another Color of Corian®.
    · Corian® can be formed, shaped or molded to fit any design and has a Seamless™ appearance.
    · The non-porous surface of Corian® is safe, easy to clean and requires no sealing.
    · DuPont stands behind every purchase of Corian® to ensure customer satisfaction.

    7. Can I place a hot pot directly on Corian®?
    We do not recommend placing a hot pot directly on Corian®. Although Corian® remains stable and undamaged in temperatures up to 212ºF (100ºC), high heat or flame will damage Corian®. In most cases this can be repaired. To protect your Corian® from heat damage, always use a hot pad or a trivet when using hot pots or heat-generating appliances like frying pans or electric cooking pots.

    8. What is the maximum overhang for Corian®?
    The maximum overhang for Corian® depends on the weight that will be placed on the overhang, but a good rule of thumb is 6" for 1/2" Corian® sheet

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