may trend 2015
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Page 36 - May 2015 - Builders Club News • www.buildersclubnorth.com www.buildersclubnorth.com • Builders Club News - May 2015 - Page 37
Tips from the trade
Ultra Compact Surfaces!Have you heard of Ultra Compact Surfacing yet? It is a new surfacing category truly unique and unlike any other countertop surface offered. Being in the countertop industry for more than a decade I have had to revisit my thinking about ultra-compact surfacing. Everything industry professionals know about granite, marble, quartz and solid surface maintenance really does not apply to this new surface product. Traditionally, sales professionals tell consumers that hot pads, trivets and cutting boards should be used to mitigate thermal damage and scratching. Thermal shock is usually not covered in most manufacturer warranties. But is not a concern with Ultra-Compact Surfacing.
What is Ultra Compact Surfacing? This countertop product is manufactured by mixing raw materials found in glass, porcelain and quartz under extreme heat and pressure to create a nearly indestructible surface. This product category is UV resistant and water resistant, perfect for outdoor kitchen applications. Since this product is not resin-based direct sunlight will never affect the finish. Many people would suspect that natural stone products would be far superior for outdoor kitchens. However, in recent years most quarries have been applying an epoxy coating on the material for shipping purposes. Over time the epoxy will start to discolor in direct sunlight, as would any Quartz product. These new Ultra-Compact products are also freeze and thaw-resistant. So, in extreme cold this surface will remain stable.
Where does it come from and who makes it?Currently, there are two manufactures that have launched an Ultra-Compact product line. Despite some minor character differences the processing is remarkably similar. Dekton made by Cosentino, is available in multiple slab thicknesses. The most readily available thickness for countertop usage right now is 2CM. Cosentino is working on producing a 3CM thickness, which is the most common stone thickness in the Midwestern market. Cosentino's 1.2CM and .8CM thicknesses work great for wall cladding and flooring. Neolith is another ultra-compact surface. Their slab thicknesses are 1.2CM and .6CM. There are multiple design, fabrication, and installation considerations to make when using this product. Contact your building partner and/or preferred vendor to learn more about what is possible in your local market.
So, if you are looking for a unique material to use in your next kitchen remodel or outdoor kitchen project, then look no further. Ultra-compact surfaces will last a lifetime!
Want more information? Call Katrina Bigger(612) 366-2259 Direct(651) 437-1004 Main(651) 480-8191 Fax
Innovative Surfaces, Inc. awards 4 Club Points
What’s new in countertop surfacing?