When it comes to modular kitchens, countertops form the essence of the kitchen, which every individual looks for in the first instance. Without the right choice of material, fitting, and colour kitchen countertop can prove a failure in the long run. They need to be a robust material to disallow permeating of any liquid on the surface, should be scratch resistant, and able to hold some strain. Select the size of the countertop, keeping in mind the surrounding appliances and cabinet. If possible, use drop-in sinks as the material will be more compatible despite adding a few extra bucks to cost. Slanting can be provided to ensure that the liquids do not thicken in one place. Thickness can vary according to the material but is kept about an inch in general. If heavy material such as stone etc., is used, check for cracks and make sure that there is a sufficient base to hold it as stone-based materials are usually heavier. Please don’t fall for those glittery type materials. Although expensive, they do not last even for a decade. Choose seamless countertops for better support and rigidity.
Countertop materials: Although it is an individual choice which material they like, some of the demanding countertop materials available in the market are listed.
Ceramics: Best in budget and low in labour, these provide a rustic appearance with the strength to last a decade but are highly porous.
Wood: A variety of wood such as teak can be used as these are inexpensive and do not require any complicated installations. Polishing can improve the look but need high maintenance.
Granite: Most demanding material in the market is made from igneous rocks. It is scratch-resistant, and its thermal-proof nature gives it a long life and can be glossy or matte.
Stainless steel: Shiny steel is the next preference after granite but is prone to scratches and dents despite its high strength.
Floor tiles are available in different sizes and a wide range of colours, patterns, and textures. Large industrial units manufacture these by using high-quality silica and clay. These tiles have become very affordable and thus more preferred than other types of flooring, such as marble and granite. These are easy to install and do not wear off like marbles which turn yellow with time due to the formation of iron-oxide or improper periodic maintenance. Floor tiles are available in different types such as vitrified, ceramic, porcelain, glass, marble, and granite, with each having different properties and suitability. For example, vitrified tiles are less in moisture and higher in strength, making them ideal for places such as a garage to manage the overhead weight. These days, with digitalization innovation, custom printing of designs can be easily done on tiles, increasing their purview. Double charge floor tiles are the perfect combination of beauty and strength as they are made by hydraulic by pressuring two layers of powder. The thickness of the top layer constitutes 30-50% of the total breadth of the tile, making it very hard when compared on a Mohs scale.
Further, unlike printed on other glazed and polished tiles, the design is engrossed, making it last longer and free from any scratches. Apart from this, they can also be glazed to add a new layer of protection. These can act as a substitute for full-body tiles and are also known as double-loading tiles. Double charge floor tiles because their manufacturing process is high in price but is less in variety and designs.
