Have you seen the beautiful countertops that have popped now and then on your timeline? The glossy, shiny countertop will pique your interest at a glance with its beauty and character. Although not as popular as marble and quartz, resin countertops have caught the eye of several homeowners, warranting them a discussion in the kitchen remodeling world. So what are these alternative countertops? And are they worth your kitchen level up? Let us find out.
What Are Resin Countertops?
Also known as epoxy countertops, they are made from mixing liquid resin and liquid hardener, the resin is a rock-hard material characterized by a clear glossy finish. After combining the mixture, a liquid is poured over the existing countertop and left to harden.
Advantages Of Choosing Resin Countertops
- Durable
Because most durable materials come at a high price, homeowners have been forced to settle with what they can afford, but such is not the case with resin countertops. These are made to stand up to the impact of damage by resisting scratches, dents, and stains while remaining affordable. Not to say epoxy countertops are cheap, but they are much more affordable than durable options like natural stone countertops.
2. Water Resistant
Water resistance is crucial when choosing a countertop for the remodel in a place with high moisture levels, like the kitchen. Non-porous resin countertops work well with spills and splashes. Not only is this a plus in the daily kitchen operations but a plus with maintenance as it is ideal when you need to sanitize or disinfect the worktops.
3. Heat Resistant
I can confidently say that heat and water resistance are the two qualities that rank countertops superior in kitchen countertops. Although hard to find both on the countertop, the resin is one exception. In addition to being water resistant, the resin has heat resistance characteristics making it one less thing to worry about when you leave the hot baking dish on it.
4. Beautiful
There is no question about the beauty of resin countertops. Its ability to take on different pigments, colors, and forms when being made allows the material to take on different aesthetics, all pleasing to the eye. These countertops can be made to match any kitchen aesthetic, from natural to artsy. Because it is poured in liquid form, your kitchen remodeler can mold it into your design. This is any remodeling homeowner’s dream.
5. Safety
Although made from chemicals, epoxy countertops are food safe and non-toxic once cured. During application, leave the room well-ventilated so that all the volatile organic compounds evaporate. Keep this up for the next few days to ensure no harmful substances linger on the countertop.
Downsides Of Installing Resin Countertops
- Messy Installation
Reading blogs describing how these countertops are made makes the process sound straightforward but far from it. Requires expertise to ensure no bubbles are formed when the liquid is poured over the surface. Additionally, as the liquid flows to the edges to self-level, it can drip off, messing up the work area.
2. No Do-Overs
If you plan to go DIY, you should know you only have one chance at getting your installation right. If you mess it up the first time, repeating the process will take time, money, and effort. Thus, homeowners are encouraged to hire a professional kitchen remodeler to ensure a successful installation.
Wrap Up
As always, whether or not to choose resin countertops for your kitchen to remodel lies with you. Hopefully, you can go into your decision well informed with this guide. Talk to a kitchen remodeling expert to narrow down your options for the kitchen. Get a quote and start envisioning your kitchen remodel.