When it comes to choosing the perfect countertop for your kitchen or workspace, resin countertops are an increasingly popular option due to their durability and versatility. Resin countertops are made by mixing specific proportions of resin with a hardener, which transforms the liquid mixture into a solid and resilient surface. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore two primary types of resin countertops: epoxy resin and phenolic resin. We’ll discuss their respective pros and cons, things to consider and alternatives, helping you make an informed decision for your countertop needs in your home or clinical lab.
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Resin countertops are engineered surfaces created by blending different types of resins with hardening agents. This causes them to become solid form to create the countertop surface. These countertops offer a seamless, non-porous, and visually stunning finish. Two of the most popular types of resin countertops are epoxy resin and phenolic resin.
Epoxy resin countertops are known for their exceptional durability and resistance to heat and chemicals. These characteristics make them ideal for laboratory and industrial settings where stringent requirements are essential. Epoxy resin countertops are fabricated by layering epoxy resin on a substrate, such as plywood or particleboard, and then applying heat and pressure to create a solid, glossy surface.
Epoxy responsive countertops best suited to laboratories or industrial sites
Phenolic resin countertops, on the other hand, offer a different set of advantages. These countertops are more cost-effective compared to epoxy resin counterparts and provide a higher degree of design flexibility. They are particularly well-suited for areas where frequent cleaning is expected, such as medical bioscience and clinical environments. Phenolic resin countertops are crafted by pressing layers of kraft paper saturated with phenolic resin, resulting in a hard, durable surface.
A phenolic resin countertop is advantageous where cleanliness is required
Epoxy resin countertops and phenolic resin countertops have their own pros and cons. Let’s dive deeper into the strengths and weaknesses of both epoxy and phenolic resin countertops to help you decide which one is the best fit for your specific needs.
Epoxy response countertops and phenolic response countertops have their own advantages and disadvantages.
poxy resin offers two main advantages. It is highly durable and is heat resistant. Epoxy resin countertops are incredibly durable and can withstand the rigors of heavy daily use without showing signs of wear and tear. They excel in high-temperature environments, making them suitable for applications where exposure to heat is frequent.
Epoxy resin has five major disadvantages. Its disadvantages include that installation is difficult and requires experience, it dries immediately after the first attempt, the curing and application process time take a while, they tend to be more expensive, and they can be somewhat high maintenance.
Let’s get a bit more into the cons of epoxy resin:
Installing epoxy resin countertops can be a complex process that often requires professional expertise. Epoxy resin cures rapidly, leaving little room for error during installation. This means you must work quickly and precisely. The curing process of epoxy resin countertops can take several days, which may disrupt your daily routines. Epoxy resin countertops tend to be more expensive than some alternative materials, which can be a factor to consider for budget-conscious buyers. While they are resilient, epoxy resin countertops can require ongoing maintenance to preserve their glossy appearance and prevent scratches.
Phenolic resin has two major pros of moisture- and bacterial-resistance and it is easy to fabricate and create a customized design. Phenolic resin countertops offer excellent resistance to moisture and are inherently antibacterial, making them suitable for environments where hygiene is paramount like a doctor’s office or other clinical lab. Phenolic resin countertops are also easier to work with during installation and can be customized to suit various design preferences. That way you can achieve just about any aesthetic you are looking for with a phenolic resin countertop.
Phenolic resin has one major disadvantage of low toughness and it’s curing reaction to an open flame. Phenolic resin countertops are typically not as tough as epoxy resin countertops. They can react poorly to open flames. Therefore, before deciding on a phenolic resin countertop you would need to think through the uses of the countertop as it would not be the best idea to put a phenolic resin countertop next to any sort of open flame.
Everyone should consider countertop resin for any countertop surface. Epoxy resin countertops are an excellent choice for those seeking a modern and creative look. They also work wonders as a refinishing option for old countertops, breathing new life into your space. The glossy finish achieved after the resin cures can give your surface a reflective and polished appearance, enhancing the overall aesthetics.
While resin countertops offer numerous benefits, the installation process may be intimidating for some. If epoxy resin countertops do not align with your preferences or requirements, consider these alternative options:
Quartz and solid surface countertops are popular choices for their durability, ease of maintenance, and wide range of color and pattern options. They offer a more straightforward installation process compared to resin countertops.
Advantages of quartz and solid surface countertops
Recycled glass countertops are an eco-friendly choice that combines the beauty of glass fragments with resin binders. They provide a unique and colorful appearance while being easy to maintain.
For those looking for a cost-effective and customizable solution, do-it-yourself tile countertops are an attractive option. With a variety of tile materials and designs available, you can create a countertop that matches your style.
Tile countertops can give you a variety of options.
Epoxy countertops cost $50 to $150 per square foot installed or $1,500 to $6,000 for an average-sized kitchen. A DIY epoxy resin kit costs $100 to $350, depending on the size, and saves you $45 to $140 per square foot in labor costs. Epoxy is durable but is hard to install.
Epoxy countertop costs by size Project size Countertops square footage Average cost installed Small kitchen (70 – 100 SF) 20 – 30 $1,000 – $4,500 Average kitchen (100 – 200 SF) 30 – 40 $1,500 – $6,000 Large kitchen (200+ SF) 40 – 60 $2,000 – $9,000 Bathroom counters 5 – 15 $250 – $2,300
Epoxy is messy and difficult to work with, so most of the total cost comes from labor fees. Installation costs $45 to $140 per square foot for labor and only $5 to $10 per square foot for materials.
Epoxy countertop cost calculator Factor Average cost per square foot Epoxy resin materials $5 – $10 Installation labor $45 – $140 Total cost to install $50 – $150
The following factors affect the installation cost:
Epoxy vs. polymer resin – Epoxy is stronger and more moisture resistant than polymer resin but costs more.
Color / intricacy – Custom designs and unusual colors or textures cost more than a basic finish.
Brand – Popular epoxy brands include Stone Coat, Permaglaze, and Miracle Method.
Permits – A bathroom or kitchen remodel permit costs $200 to $1,500 and is required for major structural changes. However, many cities don't require a permit for replacing an existing countertop.
Repairs – Countertop repairs cost $200 to $800 on average, depending on the size and extent of the damage.
Epoxy countertops come in a variety of colors, patterns, and designs. Popular patterns mimic granite, wood, or marble at a much lower cost than the real thing.
Kitchen with green cabinets and epoxy countertops in marble pattern.
DIY epoxy countertop kit prices are $100 to $350, depending on the counter size, tools needed, and material quality. Working with resin is difficult and should only be attempted by experienced DIYers.
Apply a thin “flooding” layer first to minimize bubbles. If bubbles do appear, use a hair dryer to bring them to the surface and pop.
Epoxy countertops cost $50 to $150 per square foot installed, while quartz countertops cost $50 to $200 per square foot and granite countertops cost $80 to $150 per square foot. Epoxy is cheaper and easier to maintain than granite but is harder to install than a stone slab.
In comparison, other types of countertops cost $50 to $150 on average installed, depending on the material.
Epoxy countertops are durable, heat-resistant, and scratch-resistant. Because epoxy is non-porous, it is food safe and does not require sealing.
Epoxy countertop pros and cons Pros Cons
DurableHeat, stain, and scratch resistant
Wide variety of colors and designs
Food safe
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Eco-friendly
Difficult, time-consuming installation
Inconsistent quality between manufacturers
Prone to stains
Epoxy countertops are made from mixing liquid resin and a chemical hardener. Epoxy is typically poured over existing countertops or underlayment but can sometimes be poured into a mold and made into a slab like concrete.
Epoxy countertops can be installed by professional countertop installers or experienced DIYers.
Epoxy countertops last 10 to 30 years when taken care of properly. When cleaning, use gentle cleaning methods such as mild soap, a non-abrasive sponge, or a steam cleaner.
You can apply epoxy over most countertop materials, including granite, laminate, quartz, Formica, concrete, wood, butcher block, tile, and marble.
Epoxy takes 5 hours to dry between layers and 24 hours to cure. Avoid touching or using it during this time.
Standard epoxy countertops are durable enough to be used outdoors but tend to turn yellow when exposed to UV rays. Choose a UV-resistant epoxy brand or use special additives to prevent yellowing outdoors.
Epoxy countertops are worth it for many homeowners because they are long-lasting, non-porous, and durable. However, they are harder and more time-consuming to install than slab countertops.
When hiring countertop installation companies for your epoxy countertop project, be sure to:
Look for a company specializing in epoxy countertops, as the epoxy installation process requires different skills and experience than other countertop materials.
Get at least three estimates to compare.
Choose a licensed, bonded, and insured company that has been in business 5+ years.
Check out their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Ask for references with contact information.
Avoid choosing the lowest quote or quality may suffer.
Get a detailed contract and warranty in writing before the project starts.
Follow a payment plan instead of paying in full before the work is complete.
Consider asking the following questions before hiring an epoxy countertop installer:
What experience do you have working with epoxy?
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
Do you have a portfolio of recent comparable work?
What does the estimate include?
What other costs can I expect?
How long will the epoxy take to dry and cure?
Will this project require a permit? If so, will you handle it?
How will you protect my floor and walls from drippage?
Do you need a deposit? If so, how much is it?
Do you offer a warranty? If so, what does it include?
Epoxy resin countertops are famous around the world for their mechanical properties and resilience. Most of their fame is due to the unique process called curing. Epoxy resin is a type of plastic, cured as a solid of silica, resin, hardener, and filler and is reinforced with fiber, making it hard to argue with its durability. However, even though epoxy resin is a favorite in many different industries, every material has its pros and cons, so we’re taking a look at all it has to offer.
As we already mentioned, epoxy resin is very durable. However, despite its strength, what makes epoxy resin so easy to work with is how sanitary it can be. Extremely easy to clean, it is ideal for businesses, kitchens, and laboratories that need to maintain a sterile environment. As it is substantial (i.e., it is non-porous), it won’t matter what cleaning method or product you use. It is nearly impossible to create cracks or damage to the surface, meaning it will remain shiny after years of use. Even compared to polyurethane, epoxy wins for its sturdiness and durability.
Another great thing about epoxy resin is how resistant it is to moisture, making it the perfect countertop to install around sinks and other water sources. It is also pretty resilient to high heat and caustic chemicals. As if all these important factors weren’t enough, epoxy resin is a material that is indeed a stunner, whether you choose the solid primary color or the various marble-like designs that are available.
NOTE: To keep your epoxy resin surfaces in their best shape, make sure you follow the right epoxy resin maintenance tips.
Perhaps the most disappointing thing when it comes to epoxy resin is that it can be a disaster if not applied correctly. In such instances, when mistakes are made during application, the process of removing the material can take a lot of time. It is true, however, in all instances when it comes to epoxy resin. The method of application shouldn’t be rushed, so applying it can be much more time-consuming than with other materials.
To save yourself a headache; as a single mistake might mean having to redo the entire project, make sure you put some effort into proper preparation. Cleaning the surface thoroughly and making sure it is completely dry is vital, as even the slightest moisture can result in an uneven surface.
But even though the extra time and effort are worth it when compared to the benefits this material offers, another downfall is its availability. Because of the manufacturing process, you might have to wait a while after you place your order. So, in general, you should brace yourself as it’ll take you a lot of patience with this material.
If you decide getting epoxy resin is the best thing to do, make sure you don’t challenge your luck by DIY installing it, especially if you are a first-timer. Instead, trust a team of professionals with its installation (and everything else in between) to enjoy the best possible results one can get out of epoxy resin.
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