Bar counters in the kitchen? Why not! This interior detail has been very popular for many years and is not going to give up its positions. To explain this phenomenon is quite simple: bar counters are suitable for spacious kitchens and cramped studios, act as an element of zoning and a functional work surface. It all depends on what shape and size to give this design.
Those who are going to equip their kitchen with the help of a bar counter have a difficult task to choose countertops. Many masters will certainly advise bar counters made of artificial stone. Before agreeing or rejecting such a proposal, it is worthwhile to study in detail the characteristics of this material.
Varieties of Artificial Stone
Speaking of bar counters made of artificial stone, they usually mean a material that visually resembles natural stone and has some similar characteristics. In this case, manufacturers can offer several materials with such properties. Among them:
- agglomerate;
- acrylic;
- liquid stone.
All of them have advantages and disadvantages, and also have some features in appearance. In order for the ordered bar counter to be a profitable and successful acquisition, these features will need to be taken into account.
Agglomerate bar counter
What is an agglomerate? This material for the production of bar counters and countertops is considered the closest natural stone. The fact is that the composition of the agglomerate includes from 90 to 95% of the natural material in the form of crumbs. In this case, different types of natural stone are used:
- marble;
- granite;
- quartzite;
- other rocks.
During the production process, the crumb of natural stone is mixed with fixing agents, binding resins, decorative additives and coloring pigments. Due to this feature, at first glance, the agglomerate is quite difficult to distinguish from natural stone. In the kitchen, such bar counters look solid and luxurious.
Advantages and disadvantages of sinter countertops
The installation of a bar counter decorated with this type of artificial stone will be a real find for those who value practicality and chic in the interior.
The appearance of such products is really luxurious, while the countertops are almost indistinguishable from those made of marble, granite or any other stone massif.
- The bar counter will be very durable and resistant to mechanical damage.
- Agglomerate can be safely used for furniture decoration in hotels, bars and restaurants, in apartments. Most of its components are of natural origin, so it is completely safe for health.
- Such countertops are resistant to humidity and high temperature, so even a hot frying pan left on the bar counter will not cause much trouble.
- A variety of color palettes makes it possible to choose a bar counter for the kitchen with almost any interior.
- Getting rid of dirt on the surface of an artificial stone is simple - just a damp sponge and a detergent.
Among the disadvantages are:
- high cost of the product;
- the possible presence of seams (bar counters of a large size or complex shape are made from several pieces of agglomerate);
- the need for sanding when scratches occur on the surface.
Acrylic stone bar counters
Another type of artificial stone for countertops from bar counters is acrylic. These products are made from white clay powder using polymers, acrylic resin and coloring agents.
Depending on the color and style of execution, bar counters can repeat the appearance of products made of natural stone or be completely unlike it. As for color, there can be dozens of options.
Features of acrylic countertops for bar counters
Despite the features in appearance, acrylic products are not much inferior to analogues from the agglomerate. They have quite a few advantages.
- A wide selection of colors and shades makes it possible to design a classic interior or complement the design with a bright element.
- Complete absence of seams even in large details of complex shape. It is possible to complete an integral bar counter from artificial stone by using special seamless manufacturing technology.
- Relatively low weight makes acrylic products stand out against the background of natural stone.
- Resistance to water and blows makes bar counters made of artificial stone durable and practical.
- Bacteria, mold and fungus do not multiply on the acrylic surface, so such furniture is considered ideal in terms of hygiene.
- Artificial stone does not require special care. Wet cleaning with a detergent will be enough for him.
Does this material have flaws? Unfortunately yes.
- High price. Compared to plastic and chipboard, an artificial stone bar counter clearly loses in price.
- Susceptibility to heat. Hot pots should not be placed on such a surface, otherwise the bar will be damaged.
- When washing, do not use hard brushes and powder detergent, as the countertop is scratched.
Liquid stone bar counters
Another type of artificial stone for bar counters and countertops is liquid stone (it is often called cast stone). The production technique of such products is somewhat different from the production of agglomerate and acrylic stone. The basis of the cast stone is MDF or particleboard. The base is coated with a special coating consisting of polymer binders and colored granules. The thickness of this layer can reach 3-15 mm.
Such countertops should be ordered for racks and other work surfaces only from trusted companies with a good reputation and a long history, since poor workmanship leads to quick wear of the product.
Advantages and disadvantages of cast stone
The characteristics of this material directly depend on the features of its manufacture.
- The beautiful texture and rich colors make the choice of countertops for the bar a pleasant experience.
- Relatively light weight compared to natural stone and agglomerate (for this, the light base of particleboard is responsible).
- Thanks to resistance to shock, moisture and chemical compounds, the kitchen counter can last for many years.
- Mold and fungus cannot settle on such a surface.
- Care for cast stone is quite simple.
Among the shortcomings can be called the following features:
- a slight unpleasant odor of styrene - it can last a couple of months;
- there is a risk of cracks on the surface (this often happens when the coating has a small thickness of 3-4 mm).
Reviews of bar counter made of artificial stone
Artificial stone found both its admirers and opponents.
Those who are satisfied with the purchase note:
- high resistance to moisture - even if the sink is close, the material retains its shape for many years (chipboard and fiberboard are deformed and delaminate under these conditions);
- strength;
- luxurious appearance (bar counter made of artificial stone fits perfectly into any interior);
- the possibility of repair (even if a piece of material broke off from a countertop under mechanical action, it can easily be restored).
Among the minuses indicate:
- the appearance of cracks;
- unpleasant odor;
- unreasonably high price.
To protect yourself from buying low-quality products, you should carefully choose the manufacturer. To begin with, it is advisable to study reviews about the company, to find out the duration of its work in the services market. In addition, the quality of the material is of great importance. Low cost may indicate the fragility of the bar.