Countertop Trends knows from experience what it takes to make kitchen and bath countertops to fit your lifestyle.  Durability and beauty are built into each top using only quality materials.  We have compiled the most commonly asked countertop questions so that as you design your kitchen you will be able to combine quality and beauty with form, function and versatility.

Q. When I miter a postform countertop to a bar or peninsula top, will the backsplash extend to the edge of the bar?

A.  The backsplash will end where the back corner of the cabinet ends.  The bar portion will extend longer by 2", 5", 11" or 17" depending on the width of the bar.  In each case a small cap is applied to the backsplash called a "bar cap".  Also remember that a  bar less than 27" of any style can not be mitered into a 25" kitchen.

Q.  Can the ends of my laminate countertop be softened?

A.  A radius corner or eased end can be applied to most edge styles.  The edge of the radius will be square, not rolled like the edge style.  The smallest radius is a 1".  All radius sizes need to be provided at the time the order is placed.  In determining the radius size, remember to add at least 1" of overhang in addition to the size of the radius to ensure that the overall length of the top will not leave cabinets exposed. (Example:  cabinets = 97" + 3" (radius) + 1" (overhang = 101" overall length.)

 Q.  My cabinets measure 156" but I am unable to find a top longer than 144".  Can I get a top cut to 156"?

A.  A butt joint is neccessary in all tops over 144" long.  Butt joints may be assembled if the top is 168" or less in length.  Tops over 168" will be shipped in two pieces.

Q.  If I have a corner sink base, can I still have a countertop with a postformed backsplash?

A.  Yes.  A diagonal bridge option would be used.  The front diagonal edge is pieced in and is designed to allow a sink to be placed with a standard 3" set back from the edge.

 A standard double bowl sink will work with this cut if a 6" spacer is place on each side of the sink.  The sink cutout will not be cut in the top.  However, a triangular hole will be in the top at the sink location. 

 The cabinet sink base measurement muct be provided at the time of order.  The corner measurements must be equal and the corner must be square.

Q.  If I have a lazy susan corner base cabinet, can I sill have a countertop with a postformed backsplash?

A.  Yes.  A plateau shelf extension would be the option used in this situation.  The front 45 degree edge is created by the top being set in and a shelf piece is attached behind the backsplash.  The corner cabinet base measurement must be provided at the time of order.  The corner measurements must be equal and the corner must be square.

Q.  Can a sink cut-out be made in a top before shipping?

A.  A sink cut-out can be made in most tops, however the sink location must be specified from the end or corner of the top to the center of the cutout.  Exact cut-out dimensions must be provided to CTT at the time the order is placed.

Q.  How should laminate countertops be stored prior to installation?

A.  Whenever possible store countertops horizontal and as flat as possible.  Try to keep them in a warm dry area.  Let the pieces of countertop acclimate to room temperature before installation. 

Q.  Can laminate tops be used as a cutting board or have hot utensils laid on them?

A.  While contemporary laminates do have durable finishes, you should not cut directly on their surface or lay any utensils warmer than approximately 250 degrees fahrenheit on your countertops.

Q.  If my walls are out of square, do I need my countertop to be cut out of square as well?

A.  If your walls are 1/2" or less out of square, simply sanding the scribe stick, which is attached to the back of the countertop, should allow the top to contour to your wall.  If 1/2" scribe sanding is not enough, it may be necessary for you to use loose or detached backsplash to cover the gap between the back of the tops and the wall.

Q.  I have custom shelves that are at the end of my cabinets.  Can I get a countertop to match them?

A.  Yes.  The edge veneer edge styles allows for a perfect half round.  This option aids the designer in being able to reflect the shelves below.  Also note the corner is a 45 degree inside corner which is fabricated without laminate seams.  Also the radius corner on the bar top softens the corner of the raised eating area.