A Guide to Choosing the Right Solid Surface for Commercial Projects

Welcome to the latest edition of my newsletter, "All Things Solid Surface", where I am talking about how to choose the right Solid Surface for commercial projects, as this can make all the difference to the end result.

When specifying materials for commercial projects, selecting the correct surface is essential for durability, hygiene, and overall design look. Solid Surface is widely used in commercial applications such as reception desks, tea points, washroom troughs, and wall cladding due to its non porous nature, seamless appearance, and ease of maintenance.

1. Durability and Performance

Commercial environments require surfaces that can endure frequent use. Solid Surface is the perfect choice as it provides excellent impact resistance and is entirely non porous, making it suitable for high traffic areas.

• Scratch and Stain Resistance - Some finishes are more resistant to scratches and stains, however, darker colours may show signs of wear more quickly than lighter shades or textured finishes, just because the eye is drawn more to it than other decors.
• Seamless Joins - Unlike natural stone, Solid Surface can be joined seamlessly, eliminating dirt traps, preventing any spread of bacteria and providing a uniform appearance.

2. Hygiene and Maintenance

Solid Surface does not harbour bacteria, mould, or mildew, making it ideal for hygiene critical environments such as healthcare, hospitality, and food preparation areas. It can be cleaned with standard non-abrasive cleaning agents.

• Certifications: Some Solid Surface brands meet recognised standards such as GreenGuard certification for low VOC emissions.
• Easy Repairs: Scratches and minor damage can be repaired by refinishing, extending the lifespan of the material.

3. Versatility of Design

Solid Surface is available in a wide range of colours and finishes, providing design flexibility for commercial projects. It can be fabricated to achieve bespoke shapes and features, as it can be thermoformed and shaped.

• Colour Uniformity - Solid Surface offers consistent colour throughout, unlike natural materials, which can have variations in pattern.
• Thermoforming -The material can be heated and shaped, allowing for curved edges and custom designs, which allows for intricate designs.

4. Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Sustainability is increasingly important in commercial design, with some Solid Surface brands incorporating recycled conten and complying with environmental standards.

• Recycled Content - Certain manufacturers, including Corian HIMACS, Staron, Krion and Durat produce surfaces containing recycled content.
• Long Lifespan - The ability to refinish and repair Solid Surface extends its usability, reducing material waste, and showing that it is built to last.

5. Cost and Value for Money

Solid Surface may have a higher initial cost than materials such as laminates, its durability and low maintenance requirements offer long term cost savings, again, as it is built to last and stand the test of time.

• Minimal Maintenance: No need for sealing or specialist cleaning.
• Customisation - Solid Surface allows for bespoke designs, enhancing commercial spaces and residential places.

When choosing the correct Solid Surface for a commercial project, there is quite a bit to consider including durability, hygiene, aesthetics, sustainability, and cost.If you understand these factors you can then make informed decisions which can help in making a choice.

We know, BSF Solid Surfaces Ltd that choosing the right material can make all the difference in a project. If you need durability, hygiene, or a seamless aesthetic, we’re here to help you get it right.

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Nicola Barden is the Managing Director of her family business, BSF Solid Surfaces Ltd, offering high-end, custom-made, bespoke counter surfaces from Solid Surface, a luxurious, man-made stone material, used for both commercial and residential projects, their website is www.bsfsolidsurfaces.com

She can be contacted at [email protected] or give her a call at 01277 263603 if you want to chat about anything or nothing in particular.

In her spare time, she can be found with her husband, son, three madcap cats, and one crazy dog. They enjoy going to the zoo, the woods, the park, the rides, the cafe for "coffee and cake" and anything that allows their energetic son to expend his endless amounts of energy!