Prefab Countertops?

Question

JD Martin · Answer

The in-store, in-stock laminates are cheaper versions of the made to order, at least these days and at Lowes. I did both this year and compared the two products:

1. The on-the-shelf particleboard was thinner than the custom-ordered version;.

2. The on-the-shelf buildups (i.e. at backsplash) were much thinner than the custom ordered version;

3. The finishing panels that go on the ends of the on-the-shelf are horribly cheap, the buildup is too thin and the self-adhesive is a joke.

Considering the price difference, I won't go the off-the-shelf again unless we're talking some tiny section of counter that needs to be added, an island, etc. For a whole kitchen, no way. I've used it for years but they have really reduced this product to an embarrassment of cheapness. The off-the-shelf versions all had warps in them, such that you're cranking the sink down to ridiculous levels, etc.

Dumitru Anton · Answer

@Evan Ventura,

People here on BP have also successfully used the cheap IKEA countertops (around $75-99 for a piece). at that price they where treated as expendables (one per tenant), and some even reported getting the install time with demo at 2-4 hours.

for the other, you need to "waterproof" the common points of water entry:

-caulk between the wall and countertop

-use varnish on points contacting sink

-use good glue near the oven/range since the usual pressure-activated glue does not fare well with heat

Brandon Schlichter · Answer

All depends on the property and tenant. We put them in all our low and mid level rentals and haven't had a single complaint in 3 years thus far.

Todd Plambeck · Answer

It's essentially the same as the laminate they sell you when order to spec.  I've used both and have not had any issues with either and they both wear the same.

Prefab Countertops?

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