April 20, 2020 By

The Ins and Outs of Disinfecting Your Kitchen

laminate-countertopsYour kitchen is the heart of your home. It’s where you cook, entertain, and feed your family. Keeping your family safe and clean from bacteria and viruses keeps your family healthy and safe. Whether you have solid surface, marble, or laminate countertops, find out right now how you can keep your kitchen germ-free.

Clean Your Kitchen Daily

This may go without saying, but you need to clean your kitchen daily. If you have porous surfaces, you need to watch for growth of bacteria, mold, and viruses more vigilantly. Non-porous materials like laminate countertops require less maintenance.

Clean regularly with disinfectant wipes. Some materials need just a soft towel and regular soap. Because viruses and bacteria may stay on surface for hours or even days, regular cleaning will ensure that you eliminate germs from your home.

Here is a simple breakdown of recommended cleaners for each type of countertop. Be sure to print this list and keep it in your kitchen for easy reference:

  • Solid Surface: Clean the solid surface countertop using a gentle microfiber cloth. Wipe the countertop each day. For stains, avoid harsh cleaners. Instead use mild dish soap with fresh water. Avoid water spots by using a towel to dry any moisture. You can also use glass cleaner or ammonia on solid surface countertops.
  • Laminate: Use dish soap and water. Use a microfiber cloth or clean soft cloth. Wipe down the counter daily. Rinse the cloth in fresh water.
  • Quartz: Wipe down each day. Use washcloth dipped in soapy warm water. Rinse in clean water. Wipe away any soap.
  • Marble: Use a marble cleaner. If you do not have marble cleaner, then use a non-abrasive dish soap. Use warm water in a spray bottle. Cover the marble with water and scrub very, very gently. Wipe any water with a soft cloth until all water is wiped up.
  • Corian Countertops: Use an ammonia based cleaner. Do not use window cleaner. Clean with a damp cloth. Use a circular motion.

How to Disinfect Your Kitchen

Bleach works great on almost all surfaces. Bleach works well on quartz. However, your laminate, Formica, and older vintage countertops might be damaged by bleach. If you combine diluted bleach with 70% isopropyl alcohol, most viruses and bacteria will be eliminated, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

Should I Use Vinegar?

While vinegar does clean to some extent, vinegar will not eliminate viruses and bacteria. If you are looking to disinfect your kitchen, opt for disinfectant wipes, bleach, and similar cleaning products.

Wash Your Hands

Don’t forget to wash your hands after cleaning and disinfecting your kitchen. You can use disposable gloves if you want. However, regular soap and water will do.

Other Cleaning Tips

Here is a short list of other ways you can disinfect your kitchen. Eliminate bacteria, fungus, and viruses.

  • Disinfect nonporous food containers like glass and metal with disinfectant wipes
  • Move foods to clean containers
  • Run dishwasher on sanitizing setting
  • Leave newly bought packages out of the way for a few days before use
  • Rinse all produce
  • Always wash your hands, especially before serving food or when doing food prep and cooking
  • Encourage family members to wash their hands
  • Keep clean towels in the kitchen for hand use
  • Disinfect any utensils or cutting boards that come into contact with raw meat or raw eggs
  • Replace outdated cutting boards

Contact the Counter Experts at Solid Surface Canada

Ready to replace or refurbish your outdated countertop? Trust the experienced experts at Solid Surface Canada. We pride ourselves on the best customer service in Toronto. Solid Surface Canada has the widest selection of countertops, custom store fixtures, custom cabinetry, kitchens, dental cabinets, and so much more. Call us today. We are ready

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March 20, 2020 By

How to Care for Solid Surface Kitchen Countertops

solid-surface-countersKeep your solid surfaces clean and pristine for years to come with these simple maintenance tips from our experts. Prevent damage and scratching of your solid surface countertops. Enjoy beautiful counters for years to come.

Solid Surface Basics

Many counters have relatively low maintenance. Solid surface counters are non-porous and simple to clean. The “synthetic” stone surface will last for many years with proper care. Because the countertops are seamless, unlike laminate counters, you don’t have to worry about bacteria and grime in gaps and cracks like porous materials.

Cleaning your countertop involves a few simple steps:

  • Clear off any pots, pans, and objects
  • Dampen a microfiber cloth
  • Use mild dish soap and water or an ammonia-based glass cleaner
  • Wipe down the surface gently
  • Towel dry any moisture
  • Air dry

How can you remove difficult stains from your countertop? Use a mildly abrasive cleaner to remove any stains. You can use baking soda and water to remove stains from matte finishes. Some commercial solid surface cleaning sprays can be bought at the local grocery.

Maintenance

Once you have cleaner your countertop, keep the surface clean with a little basic maintenance. Prevent stains by keeping hot objects and strong chemicals away from your counter. Use a potholder to protect the surface from hot dishes and pots.

Always use a cutting board. A knife can easily scratch the surface permanently. Avoid dropping heavy items on the countertop. If you have permanent damage to your countertop or are ready for an upgrade, you can easily replace the counter affordably.

Counter Repair and Replacement

If your counter needs replacement, call the experts at Solid Surface Canada. We provide high-quality workmanship for every budget. Whether you need a full upgrade or want to schedule a consultation about your needs, our friendly staff will happily answer all of your questions. We provide the best solid surface products in Canada.

We provide quality products for both residential and commercial clients. Solid Surface Canada carries a number of popular brands like Corian, Formica, Meganite, and Staron. Talk with our experts today about your project’s needs.

 

 

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February 19, 2020 By

4 Best Kitchen Countertops 2020

kitchen-countertops-ideasReady to choose the right countertop for your home? With so many options like solid surface, quartz, and other materials, how can you choose? For over fifty years, solid surface countertops have durability and a versatile number of styles. Be inspired with these kitchen countertop ideas.

What is Solid Surface?

When looking at the best kitchen countertops for 2020, consider solid surface countertops. This durable countertop mimics natural stone but is non-porous. Unlike bouncy laminates, solid surface countertops do not crack or break easily. The material continues from top to bottom, making it more durable under the impact. Want to make a statement? Fortunately, solid surface comes in a variety of styles and colors that will match any of your exciting kitchen countertops ideas.

Solid surface countertops can withstand heat. Homeowners should use a cutting board if they have solid surface countertops. Hot pans may damage the surface if they have a very high temperature. The non-porous nature of solid surface means that cleaning and maintenance are easy.

Wood Surfaces

While wood surfaces can be beautiful they require regular maintenance to maintain their look. Wood can be hard to clean and may get slimy over time. Porous wood does not withstand damage or spills as well as a solid surface.

Granite and Marble

Some homeowners like the luxurious look of granite or marble countertops. This costly option does crack like natural stone.

Tile Countertops

Another popular option this year includes tile countertops. This ornamental option withstands heat. While a beautiful option, tile will chip easily. Heavy impacts can crack the tile. Grout lines need proper sealing to prevent staining from spilled liquids or coffee.

Contact Us

Since 2001 Solid Surface Canada has provided superior solid surface fabrication and installation. We pride ourselves on our attention to detail and adherence to the highest of industry standards. Contact our experienced team today about your kitchen countertop needs. We provide an extensive array of exciting styles, colors, and designs perfect for every homeowner and budget. Trust us to build the kitchen of your dreams. Call us today.

 

 

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February 1, 2020 By

25 Minimalist Countertop Ideas for 2020

countertopsWhether you own a home, have a small business or run a large restaurant chain, you make a first impression the minute someone walks through your door. The right countertops make a statement about your home or business. You want surfaces that emphasize both elegance and functionality, as well as your individual taste. Explore this year’s trending Minimalist design ideas.

Breaking Down Minimalist Design

When we discuss minimalism in interior design, we refer to the old axiom “less is more”. In minimalist design clean simplicity and elegance have priority over the superfluous. In other words, clean countertops in muted colors, neutral tones, and clean lines demonstrate elegance and order. A commercial retail space, office, or home that emphasizes simplicity denotes professionalism and class.

Top Trending Design Ideas

When selecting the right materials for your minimalist design, you can choose from a wide variety of countertop options. Enjoy a great array of colors and styles. Here are the most popular minimalist ideas:

  1. Solid surface neutral tone countertops contrasted with dark cabinets and fixtures
  2. Custom task lighting to maximize utility and elegance
  3. Metallic fixtures in mixed styles
  4. Monochromatic palette in matte charcoal, marble, and white
  5. Accent with natural materials, woods, and unique organic designs
  6. Install a statement chandelier
  7. Leave spaces blank or simply add sparse vases in dark colors to surfaces
  8. Add beautiful geometric art prints
  9. Place lovely vases of lush greenery strategically around the space
  10. Install colorful toe-kick lights or under cabinet lighting for extra elegance
  11. Carefully select which items to display in your home
  12. Avoid cluttering counters and shelving
  13. Coordinate the flow and layout of your space
  14. Choose antique glass materials
  15. Contrast neutral walls and flooring with bold bright countertop colors
  16. Curved and organically shaped counters
  17. Ergonomic design in opal
  18. Simple lines and geometric
  19. Avoid harsh patterns
  20. Use recycled materials
  21. Install stainless steel fixtures
  22. Include hidden storage to reduce mess
  23. Make stunning statements with unique custom shapes
  24. Tastefully combine glass displays with elegant lighting
  25. Always have the guest experience in mind

As you can see, there are countless ways to create an elegant clean minimalist look in your home or business. The minimalist style has the advantage of being easy to maintain and to perpetually looking classy. Unlike other styles like Boho, maximalist, or shabby chic, this clean design is timeless. Combine this style with an industrial look or Scandinavian furniture for a twist.

The Premier Design Professionals

Contact the seasoned design professionals at Solid Surface Canada today. Our friendly staff will happily answer any of your questions. We work with any project, large or small. We pride ourselves on superior artistry and craftsmanship. Call us today.

 

 

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April 19, 2019 By

The Surprising Link Between Corian Material and Archaeology

the surprising link between corian material and archaeologyYou probably best know Corian material from your kitchen. This synthetic material is durable, hygienic, and versatile. No matter what color or design you’re looking for, you can create a Corian material that will fit your design. While Corian material may be most common in your home, it has a wider array of uses. Interestingly, Corian Solid Surface is able to protect the ancient ruins of Pompeii.History

Almost 2,000 years ago, Mount Vesuvius erupted and scattered ash all over the city of Pompeii in Italy. The ash was so thick that in some places it landed in piles 6 meters high. The result was catastrophic. Those who were not able to escape in time were buried under the ash and the city basically was left a ghost town.

It was centuries later that archaeologists began to take an interest in Pompeii. Once the ash was removed, the entire city was found to be preserved. Pompeii became one of the greatest histories of civilization and was a perfect snapshot into the daily lives of the people of the Roman Empire.

Modern Time

There are still many discoveries to be found in Pompeii, but now the task is to preserve the ruins. The weather is harsh and can do great damage to the millenniums-old city. Structures were needed to protect certain parts of the ancient city. However, because Pompeii is a major tourist attraction, it’s important to have protective structures that also allow visitors to see the wonderous site.

Corian Solid Surface

Many designs were thought of, including traditional surfaces such as glass or wood. Ultimately it was decided that Corian Solid Surface would be the best material. Not only is it durable enough to protect history, but its design is actually nice to look at.

The Corian Solid Surface is used as a sort of rooftop, specifically over a neighborhood of Pompeii that housed the very wealthy. Frames of galvanized steel were created and then the Corian Solid Surface was placed on top. The final color choice was Distinct Tan. This neutral color seamlessly blends in with the natural stone color of the buildings.

The aim for using Corian Solid Surface was to protect history but also bring elements of design. The structures are meant to complement the ancient city and not take away from its natural beauty. If you were to take a quick glance at the city, you might even first think that you’re merely seeing the city as it once was.

Preserving history

The innovative design of Corian Solid Surface means that there are so many possibilities. Many more historical sites face the challenges of weather erosion and tourist interest. As a result there will be an even greater need for protective designs that use Corian Solid Surface.

 

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September 18, 2018 By

5 Different Types of Kitchen Countertops

5 different types of kitchen countertopsKitchen 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.

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November 18, 2017 By

Best Low-Maintenance Countertop Materials

Best Low-Maintenance Countertop MaterialsWith your busy life, you don’t have time to deal with countertops that need tons of regular maintenance.  Sealing natural stone and worrying about scratches and stains is more work than many of us want to put into our kitchen!  Fortunately, there are a wide variety of countertop materials that are significantly lower maintenance, allowing you to have great countertops without the added work or stress.

Solid Surface

Naturally, we’re going to recommend solid surface above all others.  Solid surface is worry free, with scratches easily being buffed out; as the color and pattern go all the way through the material, you don’t have to worry about ruining your finish.  Solid surface is easily cleaned with soap and water, is resistant to staining and resist heat and impacts better than nearly any other surface available.  It’s hard to go wrong when you pick solid surface.

Stainless Steel

If you’re looking for a more industrial/modern-chic look, stainless steel is an interesting option – and you can’t get any lower maintenance than stainless steel.  As the name would imply, they don’t get stained by food or juice or anything else that they might encounter in the kitchen, and are heat resistant, to boot.   They don’t need to be sealed or refinished, and require no special products to clean.  They can be slightly more expensive than solid surface, however, and they are much noisier.  Still, they’re a solid alternative.

Laminate

Laminate is a very affordable alternative for a low-maintenance countertop.  Many of the same manufacturers make both laminate and solid surface options, including Wilsonart and Formica.  They are easier to install than solid surface, and offer many of the same benefits – a nonporous surface, no need for sealing or refinishing, hundreds of colors and patterns, etc.  The main issue they have, compared to solid surface, is that the pattern doesn’t go all the way through the material, so you risk having unsightly damage to your counter that is impossible (or, at least, very expensive!) to repair, as opposed to a quick-and-easy solid surface repair job.

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October 23, 2017 By

Benefits of a Solid Surface Sink

Benefits of a Solid Surface SinkWhen picking a new surface for your kitchen or bathroom sink, we highly recommend solid surfaces.  If you’re looking for a wide range of performance abilities, a selection of different looks and designs to choose from and a reasonable price tag, solid surface is simply very difficult to beat.  It is absolutely perfect for your next sink replacement.

First of all, solid surface is seamless.  It can be integrated into your solid surface perfectly, without obvious seams, joints or other connections. The seamless joints look amazing, as your entire room ends up looking like one continuous piece, but this isn’t just a positive because it looks good.  No, the lack of seams and cracks means that your surfaces are much easier to clean.  You don’t get bacteria or mildew growth because there are no cracks and crannies for them to spread into.  That makes it an exceptionally hygienic option, especially compared to natural marble or other surfaces.

Secondly, you get a wider variety of colors and styles when you pick solid surface.  When you pick a natural sink material, your choices are generally limited to the natural colors of the rock.  Even materials like stainless steel just come in one basic color.  Solid surface, on the other hand, has an entire range of styles and colors to match any room’s requirements.  No matter what color or design scheme you’re planning on using, solid surface has a match for you.  Your customization options are drastically improved when you use solid surface.

Finally, solid surface is both durable and renewable.  Solid surface isn’t as fragile or brittle as porcelain or ceramic, making it less likely to break and scratch.  It is somewhat more likely to scratch than those materials, but that’s where solid surface’s real benefits shine.  Any stains or scratches can be buffed or sanded right out – solid surface is continuous, meaning the color and pattern stays the same throughout the entire depth of the material.  That makes any repair a very easy task.

Consider solid surface for your next sink!  You won’t be disappointed.

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May 6, 2017 By

3 Things You Should Never Do in Your Kitchen

3 Things You Should Never Do in Your KitchenAfter more than 15 years of experience working in and around kitchens, you would think nothing could surprise the experts at Solid Surface Canada anymore.  You would be mistaken!

Kitchens are great, multi-functional spaces.  You can do tons of things in them, from cooking to entertaining to family time.  When you use solid surface for your countertops, you have a quite durable room, too, able to handle most of the punishment you could give it.  “Most” is not “all”, however, and here are some things you really shouldn’t do in your kitchen.

Leave Those Spills

Solid surface has advantages over natural stone in that it’s non-porous.  Bacteria and germs can’t penetrate its surface, like it can on granite.  That means spills aren’t as much of a problem on solid surface as they can be on other surfaces.  However, that doesn’t mean it’s a magic surface.  Leaving spills on your countertop overnight is a surefire way to ruin your finish.  Don’t forget to dry, either – letting water dry on your countertop will eventually lead to a film buildup, making your counters look blotchy and uneven.  Wiping and rinsing completely and cleaning up those spills before they dry will prevent those hard water marks from forming.

Forget the Stepladder

Sometimes, a pot or pan is just out of reach, or you need to clean the top of those cabinets.  You may be tempted to just climb on top of your countertops and use it as a stepping-stool to get to those hard-to-reach places.  But watch out!  Countertops aren’t designed to handle the weight of people; it’s designed for cooking activities and appliances.  You wouldn’t want to crack or chip your new countertop because you didn’t go get the proper tool for the job!

Burn, Baby, Burn

Solid surface is more durable than most surfaces, and can stand the heat better than most.  Still, even it has its limits.  Placing a hot pot or pan directly on to your countertop can lead to cracks and burns, even on solid surface.  Trivets and other heat-protectors should be used when handling hot pots and pans to prevent burn-in and scorchmarks.

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February 21, 2017 By

Design Choices for Kitchen Sinks

Design Choices for Kitchen SinksNow that you have your new solid surface countertops picked out, it’s time to move on to an important piece of kitchen hardware – the sink.  There are a wide range of possible sink options to choose from.  Some blend in seamlessly with the countertop, designed to be an inconspicuous as possible.  Others stand out and become a feature of the kitchen itself.  The sink you choose depends on your style choices and what you practically want to do with your kitchen – there isn’t a right or wrong choice.  Here are some of the options available.

A seamless sink blends in with its environment, and doesn’t detract from the surrounding accents and features.  When you’re talking about solid surface countertops, you’re usually talking about a solid surface sink.  When your sink is installed alongside the countertop, the seamless finish means that there are no cracks or crevices for mold or mildew to grow – it’s an ultrahygenic option.  Solid surface sinks are scratch-resistant, easy to clean and set the industry standard for durability.

If you want something a little different to break up a solid surface countertop, stainless steel is a contemporary, trendy choice that can work quite nicely.  It’s a generic enough material that it blends with almost any type of surface, with any color or pattern.  It’s also fairly maintenance free; they’re difficult to crack, chip or stain, which is what you want in something that’s going to see as much use as your kitchen sink.

Stylized sinks become features of their own – they stand out and can become the centerpiece of your kitchen.  Farmhouse sinks are very popular – it’s an oversized sink with an overhanging lip.  It draws attention to itself, and can be a functional and beautiful addition to your home.              They’re not just available in porcelain anymore – you can get farmhouse or apron sinks in copper and stainless steel now, giving you more of a selection.

We do recommend that you stick with undermount sinks.  Top-mounted sinks build up grime along their perimeter edges – that’s unsanitary and ugly.  We also recommend avoid acrylic sinks; they’re prone to chipping and wear, and won’t last as long as a good solid surface or stainless steel option.  Also, don’t get too crazy with fancy shapes.  Standard sink shapes are standard for a reason: they work!

Whatever your sink choices are, we recommend our high-quality solid surface countertops to surround them.  Contact us today to see what we can do for you!

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