Advantages
Durable, economical and stain-resistant
Available in many colors, patterns and textures
Possible to be installed by the homeowner in some cases
Laminate countertops
Laminate counterops are a popular choice because they are affordable and available in countless colours and finishes, so you will be sure to find something that you will love.
Please come see us at our showroom to view samples. Because we are a factory outlet, we have large samples of many of the laminates available, so you don't have to struggle to picture your new countertop from a small sample chip. If we don't have a larger sample, we will be happy to order one in for you.
You can follow the link to our supplier's website to view some of the laminates available. Formatop Manufacturing.
Information and Care Guide
Made of thin layers of plastic bonded to a core of particleboard, laminate countertops keep their beauty without a lot of work. They resist stains, abrasions and moisture. All they need is an occasional cleaning with mild soap and water - spills wipe up easily with a damp cloth.
Factors to Consider
Knives and hot pans can damage surface, so we recommend using cutting boards and trivets
Seams are water resistant but not waterproof. Moisture can't be left on seams or it can cause the core to swell, which can't be repaired.
Cannot be repaired if scratched, dented, burned or stained
Quartz Countertops
Information and Care Guide
Quartz is made of approximately 94% natural quartz aggregates and a small amount of pigments and polyester resins which form the balance of the material. It has the strength and durability of the strongest granite, but is a non-porous surface.
Cleaning
If needed, use non-abrasive, household cleaners along with a non-scratch or delicate scrub pad such as Scotch-Brite. Abrasive cleaners will dull the surface's shine. To remove adhered material such as food or nail polish, first scrape away the excess material with a plastic putty knife and then clean the surface with a damp cloth to remove marks or any residual dirt.
Heat
It is not advised to place hot pans directly on the material. A hot pan placed on the material can cause a thermal shock that can damage the countertop beyond repair. Because any countertop is an investment we do not recommend testing the limits of any product. Trivets are recommended when using cooking units such as electric frying pans, crock pots or roaster ovens.
Scratches/Chips:
Quartz is resistant to cracks, chips, scratches and stains. However, like most materials, excessive force and/or pressure from objects can damage the surface.
Sealing
The high gloss finish and non-porous nature provide maximum resistance to staining. No sealing is required.
Granite counterops
Information and Care Guide
Granite is the most popular natural stone and countertop material due to its versatility and superior performance characteristics. It is one of the hardest and strongest materials in nature, originating from the earth's core as liquid magma. Extreme heat and pressure forged the quartz, mica, feldspar and other minerals into a very dense structure. Over time, additional heat and pressure created the fascinating combinations of colour and pattern creating a surface that is truly unique.
Surface patterns typically will have a flecked or pebbled appearance which can vary in size, shape and density of the pattern depending on the particular mix of quartz, crystals and minerals that make up the stone. The pattern can be highly structured offering a uniform appearance over the entire countertop or the pattern may change continually, without repetition, called "movement". Various textures are also available such as polished, honed and antiqued finishes.
Cleaning
Clean with a soapy cloth, using mild dish soap and hot water only. Some stones, especially darker colours, require surface towel drying after washing to avoid showing streaks. The use of vinegar, ammonia, lemon, orange, household chemicals, acid or solvents may damage the surface or granite sealer over time. To remove stubborn sticky materials, like glue, or any product that has hardened, use a razor blade tip or 000 fine grade steel wool. If staining occurs, there are ways to pull the stain out of the stone. Please call the office for more details.
Sealing
Many of our granite's feature a lifetime sealer application! Most companies charge extra for this service but we have teamed up with a premier granite supplier who provide this service for no additional charge on our already competetive pricing (some exceptions apply, ask us for details)
To seal granite, use a wipe on/wipe off procedure, similar to how you might clean any countertop on a daily basis. Frequency of granite sealer application for your particular stone is dependent on the density. It is time to reseal your countertop if: water sitting on your countertop makes that area look slightly darker showing the water is penetrating into the stone. This spot will dissipate after a few hours or less.
Scratches/chips
Cutting directly on granite surface usually will not scratch the stone, although repeated cutting will dull knives making a chopping board preferable. Granite is resistant to chips and scratches, however, like most materials, excessive force and/or pressure from objects can damage the surface. Should your granite get scratched or chipped, repairs can be made at an additional cost. We always recommend using a cutting board.
Heat
Warm pots can be placed directly on granite from the stove without any problems. However, we do not suggest placing metal pans or pots that have been on high heat directly onto the countertop, as the metal of the pan may be beyond the thermal breaking point of certain stones. Because any countertop is an investment we do not recommend testing the limits of any product.
Sinks and Faucets
Brown's Custom Kitchens and Countertops offers a wide variety of sinks and faucets to fit any look. We provide high quality products from many reputable companies.
We are also very proud to offer Bristol Sinks and Faucets. Visit the Bristol Website to browse the entire product line. Please visit our showroom to see our displays and for great pricing below the MSRP.
Scratches
Minor scratches may be blended into the sink by lightly rubbing a scrub pad in the direction of the finished grain.
Cleaning
Water and vinegar mixed in a solution may be used to remove mineral deposits that have built up in the surface.To prevent water spots, towel dry your sink after every use.Stainless steel is a material that does not rust, however, iron particles that do rust will bond to its surface. A steel polish cleaner may be used to remove these spots.
Scratches/Chips
A metal pan or pot may leave a mark but this is not a scratch. To remove use a scrub pad and soap.
Cleaning
Avoid highly abrasive cleansers. A bleach-water solution (50/50) can be used for stubborn food stains such as grease and oil rings. Fill the sink with the bleach and water solution above the stain ring line and allow to sit for at least ½ an hour before cleaning with a dish detergent and rinsing with water.
Scratches/Chips
The surface is very hard but can be chipped by hard blows.
Cleaning
Wash with detergent and warm water. A solution of baking soda, in warm water may also remove soap scum and soil. Household or bathroom cleaners may be used, as well as, chlorine or hydrogen peroxide bleach to remove stains. Do not use these bleaches full strength or let them remain on the surface for more than a few seconds. Rinse the surface thoroughly. Always rinse with clean water after cleaning.