Frequently Asked Questions
Useful advice on care
Solid surface material is attractive yet robust and easy to maintain. However, it is not self-cleaning so will need some routine care to keep up its fresh appearance!
Wipe up any spills as soon as possible using a damp cloth or normal liquid detergent and water.
Grease stains can be removed using ammonia - based “hard surface” cleaners.
More stubborn marks can be tackled with an abrasive cream then washed and dried off. It is recommended to avoid contact with extremely strong household chemicals such as nail polish remover, oven cleaners, paint remover/paint brush cleaning fluid, drain cleaner etc.
If any strong substance comes into contact with your surface it should be washed away with plenty of clean water immediately.
What about difficult stains or cigarette burns?
Solid surface material is non-porous and has the colour and pattern right through the product. This means that cigarette burns or difficult stains can usually be removed using an abrasive cleaner, an abrasive pad or even fine sandpaper without harming the smooth surface.
Do solid surfaces scratch easily?
Items that are harder than solid surface material may scratch your surface. These include ceramics, stoneware, stainless steel and glassware. Normal use of these items should not present a problem. However, if serious scratches occur they are easily dealt with by a certified fabricator.
Can a solid surface be buffed back to the original shine?
If you have a high gloss countertop and you think it has lost its shine you can get a certified fabricator to rebuff the surface back to its original pristine state.
Can solid surface worktops be repaired if seriously damaged?
Solid surfaces are homogenous, exceptionally durable and impact resistant. They are unlikely to crack, craze or chip like marble, granite and laminates. However, if an accident does seriously damage your worktop we have the expertise and materials to repair almost any damage.
Can I cut or chop on solid surface worktops?
Although very durable, it is not recommended that you cut and chop directly on the surface as it is not meant for this purpose and the hardness of the material means that it will blunt your knife!
Can I place hot cookware on solid surface worktops?
Use a traditional trivet or heat resistant mat to place hot pans or equipment onto. Some kitchen equipment reaches extremely high temperatures which could potentially damage any work surface.
Are solid surface worktops hygienic?
The solid surface materials we use are Avonite, Velstone and Schock(Cristalan). These have been proven to be three of the most hygienic surface materials available. Laboratory tests show that the non-porous construction of the material does not support fungal growth and the material is extensively used in healthcare facilities and food manufacturing facilities.
Will the colour remain the same?
Yes, the colour remains true throughout its lifetime.
What makes solid surfaces so different to granite, laminate and tile surfaces?
Hygiene - The nature of the non–porous material makes it naturally hostile to bacteria. The possibilities of crafting the material to make the seams inconspicuous means that bacterial growth cannot invade and multiply in the joins.
Homogenous construction - this means the colour and design are not just on the surface but go right through meaning that colour is lasts for the lifetime of the surface and damage is easily mended.
Flexibility - the nature of the material makes it able to be sculpted into almost any shape so design is not restricted.
