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Solid Surface Countertops By Wilsonart (Continued)
Wilsonart Solid Surface Countertops
 Solid Surface consistency of pattern and color, plus chemical
bonding to fuse solid surface pieces provide very inconspicuous seams. Seams are solid, flush to the surface and moisture
resistant. There is no grout to clean, and liquids cannot penetrate the surface. Granite slabs vary in thickness and
appearance. This results in visible and sometimes uneven seams at corners and back splash areas. The random, inconsistent
appearance of granite further accentuates the seams where separate granite surfaces are combined. The seams are not
chemically bonded, so they can become stained and dirty with time unless they are properly and routinely sealed.
Solid Surface edges are formed by fusing two pieces of material
together. With solid surface, color and design matching between pieces is typically very
good, if not exact, since the manufacturing process ensures a consistent look and quality.
Seams are smooth and very inconspicuous. Since it can be shaped and routed, edge
options are nearly limitless. Edge options are virtually unlimited with solid surface. With
granite, no two pieces will be alike, resulting in visible seams made more obvious when
patterns and colors are inconsistent. Because of the natural potential for chipping and flaking, special edge designs are limited.
Solid Surface is nonporous, stains will not seep into the surface. Surface stains are easily
wiped away with soap and water or buffed away for good. All granite is porous. This is
why it stains so easily and must be properly and routinely sealed. Be sure that your sealer is non-toxic and safe for use on food preparation surfaces.
 Wilsonart® Solid Surface products - Gibraltar® and Earthstone®
- meet FDA* standards for food contact, ASTM International standards (G-21 and G-22) for fungal and bacterial resistance
and have NSF International approval in Class 51 for both "Splash Zone" and "Food Zone" areas. Of course, good hygiene is always
recommended with the use of any product. Granite has small surface crevices so it's harder to keep them free of mildew and
bacteria. Proper sealing and maintenance can protect against these conditions - as long as the sealant remains intact. Even so
, granite surfaces do not currently meet FDA and NSF standards for food preparation areas. Nor do they meet ASTM standards (G
-21 and G-22) for fungal and bacterial resistance.
Heat Resistance- With Solid Surface minor heat damage usually can be buffed away by
the homeowner. More severe heat damage can be inconspicuously repaired by your
certified installer. Trivets are recommended by solid surface manufacturers to protect
countertops against exposure to extreme heat. You should refer to your warranty
regarding coverage for any repairs. Granite is very heat resistant; however, the sealant
used on the surface is not. Trivets also are generally recommended by the stone industry.
Solid surface does not require sealing or special cleaning products. Soap and water will
wipe away most stains. Minor scratches and burns can be buffed away by the homeowner
without impacting the look or finish. More serious damage usually can be inconspicuously
repaired by your certified installer.You should refer to your warranty regarding coverage for any repairs.
Surfaces with a gloss or semi-gloss finish may require more maintenance than a matte or
satin finish - scratches may be more apparent and require a more detailed buffing
technique. Darker colors also may require more maintenance. Scratches and stains in solid
surface can be buffed away . Most experts agree that a granite countertop should be
resealed every one to two years. In addition, weekly application of a stone polish may be
recommended as well as specialized cleaning products and methods. Ask your installer
what products they recommend for your particular stone and their frequency of use. When
considering the cost of a granite countertop, these items should be included. Though
granite is very scratch resistant, a cutting board is recommended to avoid scratching the
sealant. When chips and scratches do occur, they are very difficult to remove. Repairs are
usually visible, and serious damage may require full replacement of the countertop
Granite products are generally not warrantied unless a warranty is provided by the installer
. Because each slab is unique, there is no way to predict its performance over time. The
product may include internal fissures, natural cracks and impurities which may or may not
affect its performance. Homeowners must discuss warranty options with each installer to
determine what, if anything, is covered. There is no standard in place or recourse if the installer goes out of business.
Solid Surface
Wilsonart Solid Surface is accompanied by a 10 year, transferable warranty. Wilsonart provides warranty support and a customer service hotline
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