Glossary: Kitchen Countertops
Before you head out to choose your countertops, read up on these key terms that may be mentioned in the stores.
James Frederick Housel
Mix and match materials to suit your style and budget.
Honed: A low-sheen surface with a smooth, matte finish.
Plastic laminate: The most common countertop, made by sandwiching paper layers between clear plastic that is then bonded to a plywood or fiberboard substrate. The top layer of paper supplies the visible color and pattern. Ready-made molded versions are called “postformed.”
Polished: A sleek, mirror-like surface that is light-reflective.
Richlite: The brand name of a tough, paper-based material that has moved from commercial kitchens to homes.
Solid surface: A manufactured product that emulates stone (Corian and Wilsonart are two brands); created by combining natural minerals with resin and additives.
Tumbled: A surface finish produced by tumbling stone in sand, pebbles, or steel bearings to round off corners and create a rustic, matte finish.
For more kitchen fundamentals, purchase Ideas for Great Kitchens.
