Webmaster, Author at Solid Surface Countertops Toronto: Commercial & Residential

March 18, 2019 By Webmaster

5 Reasons You Should Choose Solid Surface For Your Medical Office

5 reasons you should choose solid surface for your medical office We agonize over the right counter for our kitchen renos. But what about our work environment? Choosing the right materials for a corporate setting is equally as important as a residential setting. If you are building your medical office, here are five important reasons to choose Solid Surface.

Aesthetics

The décor that you have in your medical office sets the tone for what customers can expect. Purchasing bargain countertops may seem like a smart idea because you’re saving money. However, all it tells your customers is that you prefer cheapness over quality. Once you have decided on the overall décor theme of your medical office, you can choose a solid surface countertop that will match it. There are hundreds of designs to choose from, and a guarantee that there will be a product that you like.

Welcoming Feeling

Modern medical offices should be bright and welcoming. They should have a tasteful design that promotes a safe environment. Whether it’s a doctor’s clinic or a dentist, your customers should feel less stress when they enter your establishment, and not more. A solid surface countertop is dependable. It is reliable. It tells customers that they can feel more at ease in this environment.

Sanitation

Medical offices need to be sanitary. Thankfully, solid surface products are perfect for this. All our surfaces are seamless ad coated with a gel finish. Our surfaces are also scratch-resistant. This means that nasty bacteria has no place to hide. If you worry that the finish isn’t as strong as when you first had your counters installed, there is no reason to worry. Simply contact us and we can refinish them to meet your standards.

Longevity

Nobody wants to have to replace something that was just installed. Thankfully, our products are built to last long. Because solid surface products are engineered with a combination of acrylic, polyester resins, and marble dust, we have the opportunity to test our designs and create products that stand the test of time. You can be assured that as long as you need your solid surface countertops, they will be there to support your needs.

Less Hassle

There is a lot of time and money that goes into designing a medical office. From hiring the right staff to creating the right environment, it’s always a nice surprise when you find something that doesn’t require a lot of effort. Consult with the experts at Solid Surface. They will take care of all your needs. Still not sure? Just contact us and we’ll walk you through the entire process. If you have a question, we’ll answer it.

February 19, 2019 By Webmaster

5 Products You Can Get From Solid Surface

5 products you can get from solid surface You may not have realized, but Solid Surface countertops can exist almost anywhere. And after we explain all the ways that we can help, you’ll be amazed at what you start noticing. Here are five products you can get from Solid Surface.

Kitchen Countertop

While this is the most obvious product from Solid Surface, it is still worth mentioning. The countertops of your kitchen will make or break your décor. There’s no point in refinishing the rest of your kitchen and leaving old, dated, and even chipped counters. Instead, have a specialist come out and take precise measurements of your space. A counter will then be manufactured to the exact standards needed. You don’t have to worry about finding a piece of granite large enough for the entire kitchen. And you definitely don’t need to worry about cutting any jagged corners.

Bathroom Vanity

Again, a bathroom vanity is one of Solid Surface’s signature products. What’s especially nice about a vanity counter made by Solid Surface is that it will be very easy to clean. You won’t have to worry about germs or bacteria living in your bathroom. Instead, just marvel at the seamless vanity that is sparkling clean.

Bathtub Surround

If you’re taking on the task of a bathroom renovation, a great alternative to tile is the bathtub surround. The exact measurements are taken and a custom surround is built for your bathtub area. Simply put it in place, apply a sealant, and you are done. No messy grout, no having to cut tiny tiles. The end result is fresh, clean, and very modern.

Hotel Reception Desk

When guests check into a hotel, the first thing they are aware of is the reception desk. If you want to set the right tone for your guests, then a gleaming, modern reception counter is a must. No matter how large you need it to be, Solid Surface can custom design the right top for you. Made from materials such as acrylic, polyester resins and pigments, and marble dust, together these materials are formed to create a wide range of natural-looking designs. No matter what your décor theme is in your hotel, find the perfect reception desk to fit in.

Airport Service Area

Yes, Solid Surface can even create the perfect service desk for an airport! No matter what the location is, there is a solid surface product for you. In an airport, there is a need for multiple smooth surfaces that blend in with the business-like tone. Also, all measurements are custom-made. And for large orders, rest easy that the surfaces will match each other. With natural stone, it can be hard to create a large order that all matches together. But at Solid Surface, we can combine the right elements to create airport service areas that all go together.

Filed Under: solid surface countertops Tagged With: bathroom, custom-made, reception desk

January 18, 2019 By Webmaster

4 Objects To Remove From Your Kitchen Counter

4 objects to remove from your kitchen counter You’ve just spent time and money to renovate your kitchen, including the addition of a new countertop. Now is not the time to hide your investment. The kitchen counter too often becomes the dumping ground, both for small appliances and miscellaneous items. It’s a flat surface which makes it easy to store papers, kid’s projects, and all manner of debris. But why spend money on a new kitchen counter if you can’t actually see it and enjoy it?

The Toaster

Toasters can be used every day, but only for a matter of minutes. It’s time to put the kitchen toaster away. Place it in a cupboard directly under the part of the countertop that it normally sits on. If you move it further away, then it won’t be put away after being used.

It’s also a good idea to place the toaster on a tray. This way any crumbs are caught, and you won’t have to deal with the mess. If you’re not completely convinced, just try the move for a week. Hopefully you’ll realize that it’s not an appliance that needs a permanent home on the kitchen countertop. And, hey, as more people go gluten-free, the toaster might just become a bit of an obsolete appliance, anyways.

Kitchen Utensils

Chances are, you have a bin (or two) or kitchen utensils taking up space on the countertop. This includes spatulas, ladles, and flippers. Do they really need to be on the kitchen counter? It’s just as convenient to open a drawer and choose one while cooking. Find a drawer near the stove for easy use. Then, transfer the utensils into a basket or two, separating based on shape.

Knives

If you’re an avid chef, then there will be an assortment of knives in your kitchen. They might not have a home, and instead live on the cutting board, just waiting to be used. You could find a chopping block to place them in, but this just leads to more clutter. Instead, place a magnetic knife strip on the wall. This is a safe, efficient way of storing your knives.

Paper

No matter how hard you try, it seems like there is always a pile of paper on the kitchen counter. Bills to be paid, coupons to be used, forms to be filled out. You may think that at least all of the papers are in one place, so they can’t get lost. But look inside a junk drawer and there is probably even more paper to be found.

The solution is easy, but hard to follow. Create an organizing area. Have slots or baskets that you can place each item of paper in. And, be sure to go through everything regularly. There’s not point in keeping a basket of coupons that all expired last year. Having a clean countertop is worth the effort of decluttering.

Filed Under: blog Tagged With: organization, remodel, renovation

December 18, 2018 By Webmaster

4 Kitchen Projects You Don’t Want To Put Off

4 kitchen projects you don't want to put off As you head into the new year, you might start wondering what kitchen projects to tackle. Here are a few that should definitely make your list.

1. Electrical Wiring

Nobody wants to spend money on things that you can’t see. Which is why electrical wiring often gets relegated to the bottom of the kitchen projects list. But electrical wiring is important to focus on. If you live in an older home, have an electrical inspector come in to test the wiring. You could have old wiring or even insufficient wiring. If the previous home owner did a lot of DIY projects, your electrical may not even be up to code.

The result of poor wiring could be as simple as the inconvenience of a blown fuse. Or it could be as dangerous as a fire. The problem is that you don’t know what is going on with your wiring until a problem emerges. Take preventative action and move it to the top of your kitchen projects list.

2. Upgrading Appliances

Kitchen appliances are expensive, and it can be financially difficult to replace them. But if you are running an inefficient refrigerator, you can actually save money with a new appliance. By investing in Energy Star appliances, you will start seeing the savings on your electrical bill immediately. Some utility companies also offer rebates if you upgrade appliances, so you could also save that way. The point is that while the initial price tag may seem high, a new refrigerator or stove might actually be in your budget.

3. Kitchen Countertops

Countertops should be at the top of any kitchen projects list. They will be one of your major purchases, but the impact that they have will make it worth it. In fact, you could get away by cutting a few corners on other projects if your countertops make a big enough splash. There are many types of countertops to choose from, so having an expert opinion is a good idea. A quick consult with a professional will give you a feel for what will work with your existing décor and will open your eyes to many new and exciting types of designs.

4. Lighting

Lighting can seem like a small matter, but it can actually make a big difference in your home. Poor lighting can make even the best kitchens seem dim and dingy. It can also lead to inadequate light over workspaces, making your kitchen less efficient. Before you make your first purchase, though, take a few days to track and map out the paths you make in a kitchen. Then, be sure to plan lighting that will work for your usage. Mix up one or two focal lights with smaller track lighting and accent lighting. If you are replacing a light over the kitchen table, look for a dimmable light to help alter the mood.If you are on a budget but want to start on your kitchen projects, look for lighting to give you a quick, affordable boost.

Filed Under: blog Tagged With: appliances, countertops, electrical, renovations

November 18, 2018 By Webmaster

4 Reasons It’s Always A Good Idea To Invest In A Kitchen

4 reasons its always a good idea to invest in a kitchen Not many people have the wherewithal to invest in a complete home renovation. It therefore ends up being the budget that determines just what part of the house gets updated. If you’re not sure if investing in a kitchen is a good idea, here are four reasons why it’s always a good idea to invest in a kitchen.

Selling Value

An updated, modern kitchen will go a long way in selling value, if you choose to move. But don’t wait until you decide to move to invest in a kitchen. After all, you’ll want to enjoy the hard work that you’ve put into it. Even kitchens that are five years old still have a large selling value. When remodelling, try to choose a more neutral, classic choice. This way anyone who looks at your house can envision themselves in it. If you need to add your personality to your kitchen remodel, choose bright walls. Putting on a new coat of paint is easy if you plan on selling in the future.

Energy Savings

There are a lot of appliances in a kitchen, and that means ample opportunity for sky-high utility bills. Investing in new appliances means that you will save when it comes to electrical and even gas bills. Look for Energy Star appliances that have been manufactured to smartly use electricity. Also look for different settings. A dishwasher, for example, that can run quick or half loads means that you won’t have to use as much water to get a small number of dishes clean. Many local utility companies will also offer rebate programs, so check out their websites to see if you can save even more money.

Wear and Tear

The kitchen is the most-used room in a house and can quickly take a bit of a beating. While bedrooms and even the living room usually just need a fresh coat of pain, the kitchen will need a complete overhaul in its lifetime. Knicks in the countertop, broken cabinet hinges, dings in the tile: all are common in a kitchen. It’s definitely not practical to remodel your kitchen every two or three years but start planning on when it makes the most sense. If you have small children, wait until they are in school. This way they’ll not only be out of the house more when the repairs are happening, but they will hopefully be out of the complete mess stage of toddlerhood.

Positive Energy

The final reason why investing in a kitchen is always a good idea is really quite simple. You use your kitchen a lot and want to enjoy it. A kitchen should inspire you and make you want to bring people together. If it doesn’t, start envisioning a new kitchen’s potential so that you can add a bit of joy to the home.

Filed Under: blog Tagged With: cabinets, remodel, renovation

October 18, 2018 By Webmaster

5 Reasons a Shower Surround is the Way to Go

5 reasons a shower surround is the way to go Remodelling a bathroom is a fun, creative experience, but often the number of choices becomes overwhelming. The focal point is often the shower, as this can be a very large piece in the bathroom. How you design your shower is an important part of the creative puzzle. One design element that is picking up steam is the shower surround. Easy to install, customizable, and pleasant to look at, shower surrounds are the way to go.

Less expensive

Shower surrounds are less expensive than tiling a shower. Most people have a finite budget when it comes to a bathroom remodel, so price is a very important issue. Shower surrounds can help keep your budget in check. Not only will they fit most people’s budget, but because they still look nice, you can use the money that you saved on other elements of the bathroom.

Versatility

No matter the size of your shower, there is a shower surround that will fit the space. There are pre-fab surrounds and there are also custom-made surrounds. So if you have a unique space then no worries as there will be a way for a customized shower surround to fit.

Easy to clean

Shower surrounds are usually just one or two pieces and even these pieces will be expertly sealed together. So, cleaning becomes a lot easier. You can simply spray and wipe down the interior of the shower. Tiles are easy to clean, but the grout in between them is a lot harder. Grout can quickly become discolored and often needs to be cleaned with a special brush.

The silicone seal between tile and a bathtub is also the perfect place for mold to grow. This seal needs to be expertly cleaned. If not, it often needs to be dug up and replaced to keep it looking fresh.

Modern designs

Shower surrounds come in many different varieties, so no matter what your design plans are, there is an option for you. There are flat designs but there are also designs with built-in shelves. Some even have benches built in. Shower surrounds have kept up with modern designs and no longer look out of place in new bathrooms.

No leaks

Leaks in any bathroom are always a concern, no matter the type of material that is used. When you have a shower surround expertly installed, you can be assured that there will be no leaks. Instead the plumber will make sure that the pipes behind the wall are tightly sealed. Only after this is determined will the shower surround be installed.

Filed Under: blog Tagged With: bathroom, renovation, showers

September 18, 2018 By Webmaster

5 Different Types of Kitchen Countertops

5 different types of kitchen countertops Kitchen countertops are often the focal point of any kitchen. Great care needs to be taken when deciding what will look the best in this busy room. Here are five different types of kitchen countertops and what to expect from them.

Stainless Steel

If you are an avid cook, or just a germaphobe, then stainless steel countertops are an innovative way to stylize your kitchen. While they are most often found in restaurants and industrial kitchens, stainless steel is slowly creeping its way into residential kitchens.

The positive side of stainless steel is that it is extremely easy to clean. It is also hardy and indestructible and will last a long time. However, stainless steel can scratch and dent, so the aesthetics may not be what you want over a long time. They are also quite expensive so it’s important to know you want them in your home for a long period of time in order to get your money’s worth.

Butcher Block

Butcherblock, made of different types of wood, gives a nice, warm, and inviting look to a kitchen. Options include bamboo which is sustainable, and maple, which is hardy. There are many different types of designs you can make with butcher block countertops, depending on the type of wood you use and the placement of the grain.
The biggest issue with butcher block countertops is that they require a fair bit of upkeep. To keep them sanitary, they will need to be sealed which has to be reapplied. They also get their fair share of scratches and stains.

Tile

One of the lesser used types of countertops is tile, but because of this, when you see it, it really packs a visual punch. Tile countertops can be all manner of style and material.

With tile countertops, its important to keep the grout intact and clean. Grout can also become discolored over time, so be sure to clean it with water and vinegar. If a tile piece becomes cracked or lose, it is relatively easy to fix, as long as there are extra tiles around.

Natural Stone

Natural stone is considered as on of the more premium types if countertops. Stone types such as granite and quartz need very little upkeep and add a dazzling shine to your kitchen. Marble can also be used, and while its natural design is a great focal point, it is more likely to crack or chip.

If you have the budget for a complete kitchen reno, natural stone is usually where that money ends up in.

Solid Surface

If you want the look of a high-end natural stone countertop, but don’t want to invest in the expensive materials, then a nice alternative is a solid surface countertop. These products are man-made to look like their natural kitchen countertops. They can be found in a variety of styles and colors to suit all kitchen décor. Solid surface countertops are easy to clean and will last for a long time.

Filed Under: solid surface countertops Tagged With: natural stone, solid surface, stainless steel, tile

August 18, 2018 By Webmaster

Top 5 Kitchen Color Trends

top 5 kitchen color trends

When selecting a color palette for your new kitchen, it all comes down to personal taste. There are many ways to create a welcoming environment and color is just one of them. Here are the top 5 kitchen color trends this year and ideas on how to achieve the look you want in your kitchen.

1. Bold Colors

Go big or go home with color. Whether it’s neon green, apple red, or deep blue, one of the top kitchen color trends includes pops of color. The nice thing about this trend is you get to decide just how much color is included in your kitchen. And, you can start high or low. Color on the ceiling is certainly a bold move, but one that can separate your kitchen from others. If you’re not sure about being that daring, opt for accent walls, kitchen cabinets, or even a bit of color in your tile.

2. Earth Tones

If you want color but are nervous about making too bold of a statement, then opt for earth tones. Natural browns and tans help create a warm environment in a kitchen. This color choice is easiest seen in kitchen cabinets. Choose natural woods and instead of painting them, stain them. This way the wood grains are accented and become the focal point of the whole kitchen.

3. Gray Tones

While beige once reigned supreme, it has now been taken over by grey. There are many shades of grey, from light off-white to deep storms, so choosing gray again comes down to taste. This neutral pairs well with other bold colors and can help make your kitchen seem open. Gray is one of the kitchen color trends that will stick around for a while.

4. All White

An all white kitchen remains one of the most classic of kitchen color trends. All white signifies space, cleanliness, and openness. At the same time, it also creates a welcome feel to the kitchen. The really nice thing about an all white kitchen is that you can easily add pops of color if you want to change the décor around. This means that as your tastes evolve, you can add different lighting fixtures or accessories and change your kitchen without having to invest in a large renovation.

5. Metallic Accents

Metallic accents is one of the hottest kitchen color trends right now. While chrome and stainless steel have always been kitchen favorites, new metallic choices are also emerging. Copper is big and can be seen in copper mugs and copper pots and pans. Gold is also a popular trend and can be seen in many kitchen accessories. Metallic accents bring a lot style wise, so use them carefully. They are best used in small amounts to as to not overwhelm the existing décor.

Filed Under: blog Tagged With: black and white, earth tones, paint

July 18, 2018 By Webmaster

How To Keep A Kitchen Island Functional

The kitchen island is often the focal point of a room, and it’s important that it not only looks good, but has a purpose. Here are some tips on how to keep a kitchen island functional.

Storage

The best way to keep a kitchen island functional is to use it for storage. Whether it is open shelves or hidden shelves, be sure to have a kitchen island that works for you, not against you.

Large, stationary kitchen islands often have shelves behind cupboard doors. This is great except, depending on the size of the island, these shelves can actually be quite deep and impractical. If you find this is the case, don’t be afraid of creating extra doors on the other side. This way you can access the shelves from both side and keep everything better organized.

If your kitchen island has open shelves, be sure to invest in stylish bins and baskets to keep everything organized. Wire baskets will fit in a rustic-themes kitchen. Stainless steel bins adhere to a modern look. This is an easy way to add décor and add to your theme.

Whatever the design, the best way to jeep a kitchen island functional is organize is so that it works for you. Keep utensils that you use every day close at hand. Put larger, less used items, farther back. Function is the key to organization.

Portability

A Kitchen island is often stationary, but if you have the opportunity to create a movable kitchen island, be sure to take it. Portability gives you the freedom to move your kitchen island according to your needs. If you are short on counter space, then an island can quickly maneuver to be extra prep space. It can also be positioned as a place for appetizers so guests can nibble and watch you in action.

If there are extra bodies in the kitchen than normal, then moving the kitchen island out of the activity zone may actually be the best bet. Move it to the side or out of the room completely so that nobody accidently stubs their toes.

Kitchen islands that are portable can also serve double duty as a table. You can move it into an open area, add some bar stools, and a cozy table for two is set.

De-Clutter

The biggest downside to a kitchen island is that they can quickly become a dumping ground for all sorts of odd and ends. There are two approaches to combat this.

The first is to have a clean surface rule. Under no circumstance is there to be anything on the kitchen island except meal prep. Be sure, then, to have adequate homes for all the junk mail, keys, and miscellaneous that often finds its way to the surface.

The other solution to keep your kitchen island functional is to acknowledge that it will always be a place for clutter. Then, create an organizing system. Have small baskets with labels ready. Put out a mail slot to keep flyers upright and accessible. And be sure to go through everything at least once a week to weed out expired coupons and children’s permission slips.

Filed Under: blog Tagged With: kitchen, organization, storage

June 18, 2018 By Webmaster

4 Kitchen Reno Mistakes To Avoid

4 ktichen reno mistakes to avoid

Before you dive into your next project, think about the many kitchen reno mistakes to avoid. Read on to help you plan your dream kitchen.

Budget

Not sticking to your budget is one of the biggest reno mistakes to avoid. It’s so easy to try to justify the next purchase because it looks so nice. Planning a budget is more than just picking random numbers out of the air. It requires a lot of research and a bit of fluidity.

When starting a budget, think about how much you can reasonably spend. Important factors to consider are if you will be selling the house in the near future or now. If you plan on moving, then it may be wise to scale back; after all, even if it looks nice, there’s no guarantee that the new buyers will even want to keep the new design. If you will be staying in the house for a long time, then try to spend the top of your budget so that you can get the most enjoyment out of it.

Once you have a total budget, minus 10% from this number. That 10% will be your contingency fund; once you start tearing down walls, there may be a lot of unforeseen costs. With this new number, start dividing it into categories: appliances, paint, accessories. Don’t forget costs for items you can’t see, like plumbing and electrics.

Keep going back to your budget as your kitchen reno progresses. If you always know your numbers, then one of the kitchen reno mistakes you can avoid is going over budget.

Workflow

There are three main parts of the kitchen that create a triangle workflow: the sink, the stove, and the refrigerator. Make sure that there is a clear path between these elements. Practice going between the three areas and envision yourself prepping, cooking, and cleaning. If you find that you have to walk around the island to reach the refrigerator, then you may need to rethink the design. This kitchen reno mistake needs to be thought of early in the planning stage. It’s a lot harder to move a sink after a completed kitchen reno than before.

Choose appliances first

It can be easy to overlook appliances and go straight for tile, countertops, and cabinets. But appliances should really be the first step in a kitchen reno. Refrigerators come in many different depths and widths. Stoves, too, can vary in width. Instead of having a gap between the stove and the countertop, place the appliance first so that the countertop can be measured to fit exactly.

It’s also a good idea to find out how noisy your dishwasher will be. It’s nice to be able to turn on the dishwasher immediately after dinner. But, if the living area or TV area are right next to it, then it can easily disrupt your evening plans.

Big picture

Finally, an important kitchen reno mistake to avoid is forgetting about the big picture. Don’t pick out individual accents or appliances until you compare them to the entire scheme. This way everything will flow together and be harmonious.

Filed Under: blog Tagged With: budget, new kitchen, project, reno