Selective Countertops LLC
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Laminate FAQs
What is Laminate? Plastic laminate is created using layers of paper that are first impregnated with resin and then bonded together using pressure and high temperature to form a thin, rigid sheet. Branded manufacturers of laminate, including Formica, Arborite, Wilsonart, Pionite and Nevamar, are fastened with glue to a wood substrate typically used for countertops. We carry an assortment of more than 200 stock colors and textures and we are certain that you’ll find the right color for you from our selection, but we can also custom order sheets of certain types when necessary.
Is one finish better than the other in regards to laminate?
There is no single “best” finish when it comes to laminate finishes. We can help you compare the differences between matté, gloss and specialty textures but a particular finish may also wear better, depending on the desired level of usage. All laminate surfaces can be vulnerable to chips, excessive heat, cracks and scratches if not properly cared for.
Can I repair a damaged laminate countertop?
Laminate is a very thin material and requires some minor maintenance. Unfortunately, chips, burns, cracks and scratches are not able to be repaired and a replacement countertop would normally be recommended.
What are the differences in laminate countertops?
Our post-form collection series consists of countertops that can be heated and bent to fashion backsplashes and wrapped-front profiles. From this collection, we have seven
unique profiles, and seven custom profile options, ranging from the simplicity of our 180° wrap to the practicality of our D Edge. With our custom collection, barring very few limitations, we can also apply wood-accented edges to your countertops.
Quartz FAQs
What is engineered stone?
Engineered stone is a quartz product and quartz is rightfully considered one of the hardest minerals in the world. Pure quartz can be combined with pigments and resins to create non-porous slabs that are strong and match the beauty of natural quarry stones. Our stock collection of approximately 140 colors also comes from Cambria, one of the most-respected brand names in the industry.
Will the countertop have a laminated edge and do I require a sub-top?
The thickness of our available stocked stone and quartz countertop materials is 3cm. This allows for an edge that requires no additional sub-top buildup and no seamed-edge lamination.
How thick is 3cm?
3cm is approximately 1-1/4 inches in length. It is about the thickness of a half dollar when standing on its edge.
Can I put hot things on stone or quartz?
Generally, stone and quartz are very resistant to high temperatures. A tea kettle or a hot dish out of the microwave is typically not a threat, however, a 450° pot from the oven could result in damage.
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 manufacturing warranty, but would usually be repairable, depending on the size and scope of the chip or damage.
Will my quartz countertop be seamless?
Quartz is commonly manufactured and installed just like granite, so if a seam is required, it will not appear as seamless as solid surface countertops do. We attempt to avoid the use of seams whenever we can, but when necessary, our seams are consistent with the best in the industry.
Can I have an integrated sink with my quartz countertop?
There are unfortunately not any integrated sink options available for quartz countertops. Our recommendation would be a silgranite or stainless steel undermount sink for use with quartz countertops.
Will quartz products vary in color?
Quartz countertops are composed of 93% natural quartz and variations in the natural stone color, patterns, size, shape and shade are to be expected with quartz products.
Solid Surface FAQs
What is a solid surface?
Solid surface material is an acrylic product consistently colored all the way through and typically made in sheets ½” thick. Stains cannot penetrate solid surface options and neither can mold, mildew, or bacteria. Solid surface countertops are also repairable and renewable should damage ever occur. As a premier supplier and fabricator of solid surface materials, we can help you to customize your design ideas by adding integral sinks, seamless backsplashes and inlays from a collection of more than 100 colors.
Does my solid surface countertop need a sub-top or buildup?
We supply standard buildup support for solid surface materials and the need for them is always evaluated when taking measurements.
How thick will my solid surface countertop be?
The material itself is ½” thick but the edge is laminated to 1-1/2 inches.
Can I put hot things on my solid surface countertop?
Any acrylic or polyester solid surfaces will be susceptible to damage from high heat. Hot frying pans, dishes from the oven or warming trays can scorch or even fracture your solid surface and we always recommend using trivets or a hot pad for setting down hot objects.
Will solid surface sinks stain or crack?
Sinks are made from the same high-quality acrylic material as the countertops and 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 stresses, so we recommend tempering your sink by running hot water from the tap before pouring any boiling liquid in your drain.
Measurement FAQs
How does the measuring process work?
One of our measurement specialists will visit your job site and take detailed measurements using sophisticated digital tools. At this time, we will also review all the necessary details of your job and answer any remaining questions you have before your countertops are created.
What do I need to do to be prepared for measurement?
Please have your countertops cleared prior to our specialist’s arrival and have all sinks, faucets, soap pumps, hot and cold water dispensers, cooktops, dishwashers, refrigerators and any other appliances on site with you. Please plan on being available to the specialist to make necessary decisions during this process. Appointments tend to last approximately one hour.
How long will it take for my countertop to be produced?
Depending on the type of countertop you order, production times can vary. For post-form and flat-lay countertops, average production time tends to be from seven to twelve working days. If you have ordered laminate tops to be installed, the average lead time is approximately three to four weeks. Solid surface is approximatey four to six weeks. Cambria countertops are an installed product only and the average lead time for production and installation runs at approximately three weeks from measure.
If you have ordered a custom color in laminate, solid surface or quartz material, please be advised that ordering a non-stock color will add to the normal stock lead time. Visit our location today and speak to a showroom representative for lead times on any other specific materials.
Installation FAQs
Will I have to hire a contractor for my installation?
Selective Countertops, LLC offers full-service, expert installation for your countertops to ensure that your new purchase is installed correctly and on time.
How long does a countertop installation typically last?
Installation times vary quite a bit depending on the type of material, the layout of your job and the levelness of your cabinets. Most times, a solid surface installation will take three to four hours and a stone or quartz countertop installation will last four to five hours.
Will the countertop installation be noisy, messy or smelly?
Yes, yes, and yes. Our professional team will take the utmost care when installing your countertops, but there are loud tools required to get the job done. We also use dust collection systems, but no installation process is ever 100% dust free and you may want to cover certain areas to help contain the dust. Job sites will also always be left in “broom swept” condition when completed. Chemicals are often used in the installation process and epoxies and glues can have a strong odor but are not a health concern with proper ventilation.
Let’s work together
Phone: 715-833-8711
Address: 2716 Melby St.
Eau Claire, WI 54703