Product Information - Laminate

• Laminate is constructed in various thickness grades, depending on the purpose they serve.  Horizontal grade is one of the thickest laminates at .039” and is designed for flat, high-impact and heavy use countertops.
• Vertical grade is the thinnest grade at .028” and is often used for low impact vertical installations such as backsplashes.
• There are two options of backsplashes.  If the material has been molded in to a post-form backsplash, there will be no seam and the backsplash will be “rounded”.  The second option is a backsplash that is built at the home site and will be set on the back of the countertop.  This backsplash will have a “square” edge and a seam will be created.
• Sinks are typically top mounted or deck mounted.  The sinks can be a variety of finishes, such as stainless steel, cast iron and acrylic. 
• Under mounted sinks are not recommended as it’s difficult to protect against water penetration.  Once water penetrates the particle board base of this product, it will swell and deteriorate.
• There are virtually hundreds of colors to choose from when selecting laminate.  Almost any décor can be matched which is one of the reasons laminate countertops are so popular.
• In addition, special finishes are available.  Typically, the cost is slightly higher on the specialty finishes.  The finishes include the looks of stone, wood, granite, marble and even leather. 
• Laminate offers a variety of edge treatments.  There are two basic edges.  A straight edge is simply a strip of laminate applied to the front edge of the countertop.  There will be a thin seam visible in this application.
• Since laminate is pliable when heated, it can be wrapped around plywood to create a rounded edge.  This edge is called a post-formed edge. 
• There are two decorative edge treatments that are commonly used.  The standard beveled edge in which solid surface or wood can contrast with the laminate.   You can also use a contrasting laminate, such as a stone look, to apply to this beveled edge. 
• A full front edge molding allows for a limitless range of options to choose.  The most commonly seen profile is called an ogee edge.  This is a double curved form made up of a concave and convex half that looks like the letter S.  It will appear seamless at inside corners and can be bent around a radius at the outside corners.  You can stain a wood ogee to match your cabinets, or insert a solid surface edge band.
• You can add a metal or texture in the backsplash for a unique and different.  There are metals and textures made for this purpose and are typically available where the material will be selected.

Century Tile also offers:

Chicago Ceramic Tile

Chicago Granite Marble

Chicago Hardwood Flooring

Chicago Laminate Flooring

Chicago Carpet

Chicago Flooring