How to select building materials for solid surfaces Sheet?

Solid surfacing Sheet materials are made of polymeric man-made components like marble dust, acrylic, bauxite with fillers and pigments. They are used in various building products like bathroom fixtures like shower pans, sinks, bathtubs and in other installations like countertops and wall cladding. Solid surfaces are non-porous and are easily and cheaply maintained. They mimic the appearance of naturally occurring materials like wood and stone and can be invisibly joined by an experienced craftsman from a solid surface building materials company.

One of the desirable features of solid surfaces is their seamless nature. Their engineered composites have a surface finish of a gel coat that is not penetrated by bacteria or stains. Besides having a uniform appearance their seamless nature is impervious to water as no gaps are left. Bacteria cannot grow in a dry surface. When a solid surface breaks or gets scratched it can be repaired by a trained fabricator with ease.

Decide whether you would like the solid surface to cover existing walls. In order to save on costs it is advisable to install a shower wall or bathtub to cover an already existing surface. Specialized glue is used but the existing surface should not be bowed or spongy. However, solid surface materials cannot be installed over existing fiberglass or plastic surfaces. Such will have to be removed and new backer board put in place.

Your budget will determine whether you will get materials that are cost effective like acrylic or the more elegant material like Swanstone, which is more expensive. In addition, acrylic is available with a lifetime warranty while Swanstone is easily maintained, and comes in wide array of choices.

After selecting the material to use, you should now select the colors, designs and the accents that you prefer. Some materials are available in a wide range of colors, finishes and patterns and smoothness.

The next step is to select the backer board. Note to select one that adheres to the material on the walls. Acrylic is a good choice especially where the walls are in excellent condition as it is easily installed with butyl tape and a color matched sealant. This will save on costs as well as reduce the installation period. Where the walls are in bad shape, you can install a green board that is moisture resistant over them. A cement backer board can also be used. Swanstone can also be used over existing walls due to its good structural shaping.

Ensure that all fixtures that are behind the wall like shower valves are in perfect condition and well placed. In addition, identify which fixtures like shower accessories and bathtubs require enhancements so as to perform better. These enhancements may include corner seats, hand held shower among others.

If the whole process appears too difficult for you, call an experienced contractor. Professional services may be expensive but less viable in the long run. However, watch out as some professionals insist on products that they sell rather than what is solid surfaces Sheet appropriate for you.

acrylic solid surface sheet