Plastic countertops for the kitchen: how to install it yourself, instructions, photo and video tutorials

Recently, they have been striving to install precisely plastic countertops for the kitchen, as this material has proven itself perfectly in a humid environment. In this room, during the cooking process, one has to deal with unforeseen situations.

The surface of polyvinyl chloride allows you to protect the base of chipboard or MDF from all kinds of influences. Thus, the appearance of the product does not change over many years of operation.

Basic requirements for operation

A similar plane in the kitchen area covers the floor cabinets from above and serves as a work surface for a cook or housewife. However, in addition to the listed functions, it can also act as a decorative element.

Due to its rather large area, it has a huge impact on the visual perception of a particular kitchen set. Despite the materials used in the manufacture, any structure of this type must meet certain requirements.

1. Adequate strength, because the surface is almost constantly exposed to numerous mechanical influences, which are expressed in the movement of dishes or the falling of various objects. Without resistance to damage, aesthetics are quickly lost.
2. Anyway required hygiene. That is, the coating should not absorb and accumulate dirt. It is very good if it can be easily washed, as there will be plenty of opportunities to stain it.
3. Also required thermal resistance, thanks to which it will be possible to withstand short heating without damage. Materials do not always meet this requirement.
4. Needed actual design, because the surface is one of the most visible in the kitchen. In this regard, kitchen tables with a plastic worktop, as well as PVC work surfaces, are considered a very interesting and inexpensive option.

Note! In the modern world, such a cover for the lower cabinets is made in the form of a single plate, while covering a number of several elements at once. Depending on the layout, it can have a different shape.

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The main advantages of PVC analogs

These surfaces are considered the most common today, because their price is relatively low. For more effective protection, the ends of structures are processed using special methods. When choosing products, it should be understood that none of the domestic manufacturers performs elements longer than three meters. In this case, Italian products are purchased.

List of undeniable benefits

In fact, there are many positive qualities, but it is necessary to list those on which the operational period depends. High reliability is ensured by a special sealing layer, so you don't have to worry about the product swelling after contact with water. As for giving individuality, today there is a modern printing method that allows you to create your own drawing.

The following is a list of advantages:

• Thermal resistance, allowing it to withstand fairly high temperatures, which is required, for example, in contact with a hot frying pan or other hot objects.
• Resistant to ultraviolet rays and aggressive media resulting from cleaning with cleaning agents.
• Democratic cost, which makes it possible to purchase goods even for middle-class citizens.
• Numerous color options, thanks to which you can transform any interior.
• Ease of maintenance, consisting in simple cleaning of the surface.

Attention! When choosing, remember that the strength of the product will largely depend on the manufacturer. Our enterprises, as a rule, use 28 mm chipboard, while European companies use 38 mm.

Disadvantages of other materials

Modern kitchen countertops made of plastic are primarily distinguished by their affordable cost and aesthetic possibilities. However, other materials used in the manufacture have certain disadvantages.

They should be considered in more detail to ensure the superiority of polyvinyl chloride products.

• Stainless steel is more durable, but also somewhat expensive. In addition, such products require regular maintenance, because drops, prints and scratches remain on these surfaces.
• An array of wood benefits from an environmental point of view, but in the process of operation it is considered very capricious. From time to time the surface should be treated with wax and oil. Therefore, additional instructions for use will be required.
• Artificial and natural stone has excellent wear resistance, the possibility of seamless connections and other positive qualities, but too high a price becomes an obstacle for many.
• Ceramic tiles are considered a relatively rare coating. The main disadvantages lie in the presence of numerous seams, which create some difficulties during operation.
• Specially prepared glass can be a good design solution. As for its practicality, it is at a low level.

Note! This variety of materials is primarily associated with the design of the kitchen and the preferences of the owners. However, you should only buy goods that are of good quality.

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Self replacement

If necessary, instead of the old analogue, a new plastic countertop for the kitchen can be installed, and even a beginner can do such work.

Below is a detailed procedure for replacing the top of the headset with your own hands.

1. The inside hardware is disconnected first. In this case, all screws are left, as they will come in handy later.
2. After disconnecting communications, the cabinet cover is removed, and traces of the sealant are completely removed, which is noted in the video.
3. The removed part is used as a template for marking. Further, it fits in such a way that a small gap remains. Holes are made on each side for an electric jigsaw.
4. After the cutout, the new plastic kitchen countertop is put in place. It is fixed with screws that remained during dismantling. The remaining space is filled with sealants.

Important! When working, the corner finish matters. In this case, metal linings are used that can give the product a presentable look. This hides the space between the sections.

Choosing a color scheme

Having decided to purchase this product, the consumer decides only one part of the process of repairing or arranging a kitchen room. However, the chosen option will set the tone for the whole room, so you need to approach it professionally.

Choosing a color is not a difficult process, but it deserves some attention. When organizing the interior, the range is selected depending on the entire design.

List of some nuances

• Bright hues in any case associated with cleanliness. They always look stylish and fashionable. However, the choice of this option depends on the installation location.
• Dark colors can be used with maximum effect, but it has its own subtleties. On the dark plane, streaks, prints and scratches become visible.
• Imitation plastic kitchen countertop under the stone ideal for furniture of different colors and shades.
• Exotic colors surfaces are gaining popularity lately. The main problem is that drawing like this gets boring over time. Streaks and minor damage become visible.
• Imitation under the tree considered the most optimal option in our time. All breeds, as a rule, look believable, so it seems that natural material is used.

Remember! Almost all current shades change over time. Only white and black colors, as well as their various variations, can boast of constancy.

Characteristics of the plastic coating

Such a surface is a complex composite system containing high molecular weight organic compounds. The introduction of fillers significantly improves the strength characteristics, giving the material the necessary technological properties. As for functional or specialty supplements, they are also intended to improve certain properties.

Main advantages

The distinctive features of polymers are thermal plasticity, which is reflected in the preservation of the structure with increasing temperature. The use of polyvinyl chloride in construction and furniture manufacturing is due to numerous positive qualities. In addition, the cost of vinyl products is a determining factor.

The following advantages can be highlighted:

• Relatively light weight, affecting production.
• Possibility of processing with simple tools.
• Chemical resistance, thanks to which the material is able to withstand the effects of aggressive environments.
• Low thermal conductivity, which has a direct impact on thermal insulation.
• Fire safety, because PVC is difficult to burn.
• Resistance to mechanical stress.
• Low water absorption.

Note! Polyvinyl chloride immediately gained commercial distribution, ranking second in popularity. The leading position belongs to polyethylene, which is used in everyday life.

Finally

A kitchen table with a plastic top can also be a good solution, and it will be inexpensive. Low cost does not mean that the quality will be low. Everything is explained by the excellent properties of the starting material.

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