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Marble Surface

Solid Surface

Solid surface is a durable manufactured acrylic product. It is non-porous and when properly cleaned, does not support the growth of mold, mildew or bacteria. Because the color is consistent throughout, marks and scratches can easily be removed to restore it to its original appearance. The seams are virtually invisible and each brand offers integral sink options to help give it a seamless appearance, making it easy to clean and maintain. 

Solid Surface Countertops
  • Will I need to hire a contractor for my installation?
    Selective Countertops, LLC offers full removal of existing countertops and installation of any new products we provide to ensure that your new purchase is installed correctly and in a timely manner. Selective Countertops, LLC will not disconnect or reconnect any plumbing, electrical or gas connections – these are the homeowners responsibility.
  • How long will it take to receive my new countertops?
    We do our best to provide the shortest lead times possible. Our typical lead times are 3-4 weeks from measure to install, but this may fluctuate based on volume and tend to be little longer in the spring or around the holidays.
  • What do I need to do to be prepared for the measure?
    Please have all countertops that are to be measured completely cleared off and wiped down prior to our measure tech arriving. All sinks, faucets and cooktops/ranges also need to be on site. Please plan on being available to make any necessary decisions during this process. Most measure appointments typically last an hour.
  • What do I need to do to be prepared for the install?
    We ask that you review our Prior to Install Check List before your install.
  • What can I expect during my install?
    The install time alone will vary depending on how large of a job it is and the material(s) to be installed. It will be noisy, messy and smelly. We keep most of the loud equipment use outside, however it is not possible with all of it. Dust collection systems are used, but no installation process is ever completely dust free. We do recommend covering certain areas to help contain the dust. Our jobsites are always left in "broom swept" condition. Chemicals are often used in the installation process. Epoxies and glues can have a strong odor but are not a health concern with proper ventilation. Our professional installers always work diligently and respectfully to bring your vision to life.
  • How does the measure process work?
    We will schedule a final measure date and send one of our skilled measure techs out to the jobsite. They will gather all the necessary measurements and information needed. At this time, any additional questions can be answered. If you are purchasing new cabinets, we will perform a final measure once all cabinets are set.
  • Do I need to make an appointment to visit your showroom?
    We do not require appointments for our showroom, however we do recommend one. This ensures that we have someone available to meet with you one on one to go over all questions and information you may have. Please bring along to your appointment a detail drawing of your cabinet layout with measurements, along with any tile, paint, stain or cabinet samples and anything else that may be helpful to you for making your selections.
  • Will my quartz countertop be seamless?
    Seams may be needed depending on various factors in your project. While they will not be as seamless as solid surface applications, we attempt to avoid the use of seams whenever we can. Seam visibility may vary based on the design.
  • Do quartz countertops need to be sealed?
    Quartz countertops, unlike granite, do not need to be sealed.
  • How thick will my quartz countertop be?
    Standard thickness for Cambria countertops is 3cm, which is approximately 1-1/4".
  • Can I put hot objects directly on my quartz countertops?
    Sudden changes in temperature to your quartz countertops can cause damage from the thermal shock. We always recommend using trivets or hot pads to protect the surface from hot objects.
  • Can quartz be used in outdoor applications?
    Quartz countertops are not approved for outdoor applications and will completely void Cambria warranty.
  • Can quartz chip?
    Under normal use it is very unlikely that your quartz countertop will ever chip. Edges are usually more susceptible to chipping than the middle of the surface, and if hit with enough force, chipping can occur. These occurrences are generally not covered by any warranty, but usually are repairable depending on the size and scope of the chip or damage.
  • How do I clean my quartz countertops?
    Cleaning your Cambria countertops is easy! Wash with a soft cotton cloth and warm water, or use a mild soap if desired. See Cambria's list of approved cleaners if you would like something a little stronger.
  • Are laminate countertops easily damaged?
    All laminate surfaces can be vulnerable to chips, excessive heat, cracks and scratches if not properly cared for.
  • Can you undermount sinks in laminate?
    Yes, specific sinks can be undermounted in laminate. Karran is the only sink manufacturer who holds a patent for this. In order for Selective to install an undermount sink in laminate, it must be supplied by us.
  • Can laminate countertops be repaired?
    Unfortunately chips, burns, cracks and scratches are not able to be repaired and a replacement countertop would normally be recommended.
  • Is there a difference between the laminate finishes?
    All laminate finish options are similar when it comes to durability, however overtime, some may wear better than others. We can help you compare the differences between the variety of finishes and specialty textures to find the one you love best.
  • What is the difference between solid surface and Cambria quartz?
    Solid surface is an acrylic based product with added resins and dyes that has a matte finish. It can be refinished to remove light scratches and the seams are virtually invisible as they get sanded down when assembled. Cambria Quartz is a quartz based product with added pigments and binders. It has a polished finish, but is also available for most designs in a matte finish, too. Cambria cannot be refinished. Both are great options to add an updated look to any project!
  • Can I put hot objects on my solid surface countertops?
    Any acrylic or polyester solid surfaces will be susceptible to damage from high heat. We always recommend using trivets or hot pads when setting hot objects or using electronic cookware on your countertops.
  • Do solid surface countertops scratch easy?
    Because the solid surface material is a softer product than quartz or the like, they do scratch easier. Solid surface is the only renewable countertop option and these scratches or marks can easily be removed and restore the top to its original appearance.
  • Can solid surface stain?
    Solid surface is stain resistant, however if not properly cleaned and cared for, stains can occur.
  • Will solid surface sinks stain or crack?
    The sinks provided by each brand are made from the same high quality acrylic material as the countertops. They are stain-resistant, but not 100% impervious to staining or cracking. Because it is a non-porous material, stains usually only amount to surface stains and can be buffed out using a Scotch Brite pad. Cracks are also very rare, but they can be caused by repeated heat stress. We recommend tempering your sink by running hot water from the tap prior to pouring any boiling liquid down your drain.
  • Will I see seams with solid surface?
    Because solid surface is such a versatile material, the seams are virtually invisible. In most applications, it will blend and appear as one piece, but it can vary.
  • Is cultured marble real marble?
    No, it is faux. It is created from a combination of real ground marble, but overall is not real marble.
  • Will cultured marble change over time?
    Over the course of several years, your cultured marble countertop may vary in color depending on the lighting where it is installed. Lighter cultured marble colors may notice this change more than darker.
  • Will cultured marble scratch, chip or damage easy?
    While it is a durable material, it still is possible for scratching, chipping, etc to occur.
Durasein, Wilsonart, Bellavati Solid Surface
Solid Surface Display
Corian, Avonite, Livingstone Solid Surface
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