If you’re the type of person who constantly falls in love with different countertops, but your wallet doesn’t allow replacing, then covers are some of the best options for you to consider because you can get a taste of quartz and granite countertops without installing them. Here is what to know.
What Are Countertop Covers?
Countertop covers are exactly what they sound like. They’re sheets or thin layers of materials that can cover the top of the countertops to protect them or to change up the look.
Countertop covers are all the rage right now. They’re really easy to use. They can be put on any surface of countertops and they will look amazing.
Countertop covers are available in a lot of varieties and some are better than others. Some are very durable and easy to apply whereas others can only last you a decent amount of time before they can tear and scratch. So, it’s always better to get something that is long-lasting, especially if you want your countertops to last for a long time and you don’t want to spend money replacing them.
Types Of Countertop Covers
Here are some different types of countertop covers that are used commonly.
Stick-On Tile
Tiles are mostly stuck on the surface of the countertops with an adhesive or cement-like binding agent of sorts, but these stick-on tiles will change the way you think about countertop covers.
They’re very thin, like stickers but the look is similar to tile, so when it’s applied, it looks like the top of the counters are tiles, which is amazing. So, if you want to go for a tile look for your countertops but don’t want to get the real thing, then this will be a lifesaver and it’s also a lot less expensive.
Laminate
Laminate is one of the best countertop cover options out there. Laminate is not just a countertop material, but it’s also amazing when it comes to use as a cover. It can be mimicked into any material and finish you want and all you have to do is stick the laminate paper on top of the existing countertops. You can easily hide your cracked, fades, or damaged countertop with laminate covers.
It is stress-free, very easy and you will be amazed with the results at the end because they’re that great. Laminate is also a very inexpensive option, so you don’t have to worry about that sizable dent in your wallet.
Resurfacing Covers
These covers are more like kits. They contain epoxy glue and chips of stones to create different textures and the finish of an actual natural stone. This is like your own adult arts and crafts project but on a countertop. What’s not to love?
First, the epoxy is layered onto the existing countertops and while it’s still drying, you can apply stones on it to make it look like a mosaic. This kit is particularly amazing if you have large divots in the existing countertops and you want to smoothen the surface of the countertops, hence the name – resurfacing cover kits.
Wood Overlay
If you love the look of wood and want to make your countertops look like actual wood countertops, but without spending a huge load of money, then wood overlay is perfect for you. This is a slightly thicker cover but you know what they say:
The thicker they are, the more durable. And especially with wood, you need something that’s slightly thick to ensure that any moisture or water doesn’t penetrate it and cause more damage. So, if you want to go for a wooden option in covers, then this is your best bet.
Films
Think of these as thin and very beautiful sheets of any type of countertops you want to imitate. Films are really easy to apply and they come in almost every variety under the sun. The only problem with films is that they can be quite flimsy and the application can get easily botched if you work too slowly or inaccurately.
Also, they are very thin and they are at risk of getting torn, especially if you use sharp knives directly, so make sure that you are taking care of this tiny detail when you’re working. If you want a set it and forget it kind of countertop, then install quartz kitchen countertops Potomac. You won’t need covers for it because it’s a low maintenance material.
Contact Paper
The name can be misleading because it’s not paper. It’s a very sturdy harder version of vinyl panels that are thinner but can be applied on the countertops very easily. Think of it as a hybrid between vinyl tiles and shelf paper.
This is also very easy to apply and it lasts a lot longer than you might think, especially if you’re already judging the material by the name. It either comes with a sticky base that is stuck right onto the countertops or you can apply the glue first and then secure the cover on top.
Modular Granite
If you want to make your countertops look like granite, but don’t have the budget to get the natural stone, then this option is perfect. You can get modular granite or granite overlays for your countertops. They are very thin tiles like sheets of granite that can be stuck onto the countertops.
It will make your countertops look like the real deal and they’re so much more reasonable than any other natural stone countertops out there. You will fall in love with your countertops by the end of the process.
How To Apply Countertop Covers?
Now that you know the different types of countertop covers, the next thing to go over is the application. Keep in mind that this will be different for different covers, but the general method follows these instructions:
Clean The Countertop Surface
First of all, you need to ensure that you have cleaned your countertops. If you apply covers on dirty countertops with crumbs or debris on them, then they will not stick properly. So, take some rubbing alcohol or some neutral cleaner and get rid of any stains, dirt, and debris from the countertops.
Take Measurements
Next comes the measurement of the cover. Some are very versatile and you can just stick them or apply them and leave them be. Others will need to be cut to size to fit perfectly. So, if that’s the case, then measurement will be crucial.
Apply The Cover Carefully
Lastly, you want to apply the cover on the countertop and then smooth it out. If you’re using something like a peel-and-stick cover, then you need to scrape the surface to remove any air bubbles. This will ensure a smooth application.
Wait For The Adhesive To Dry
Once the application is done, you will need to wait for a few hours for the cover adhesive to dry. If you’re using something that is stuck onto the countertop, then you need to wait it out until the adhesive dries. After that, you’re free to use your countertops, which are the real thing underneath, but they’re still sporting a new look which is amazing.
Conclusion
Countertop covers are amazing because they keep the original countertops in amazing shape and you can flaunt the countertops with a new look without breaking the bank. However, if you don’t like the artificial look of the covers and want the countertop surfaces to look real, then you should install new countertops after carefully choosing the right option. Get in touch with granite countertop installers Rockville for help.
