Paper Countertops Look and Feel Like Stone
May 12th, 2009 in Blogs
Rob Yagid , associate editor
44 users recommend
Easily tooled, not easily damaged. Paper countertops can be cut or routed to have crisp, defined edge profiles. However, manufacturers suggest that paper counters be finished with eased edges because the material can be sharp. Cutting and shaping ease are by no means a reflection of this countertop’s surprisingly strong durability.
Photo: Krysta Doerfler
Paper might not seem like a suitable raw material for countertop fabrication, but when saturated with resin, heated, and compressed, the result is surprisingly stonelike. This type of paper-based panel is durable and has been used for years in industrial and marine applications, while also being the surface of choice for skateboard parks. Several manufacturers make these counters (see my source box below), but different processes result in varying performance traits.
Panels made of post-consumer waste paper are typically sought for their green attributes. This recycled paper is less uniform than virgin material, however, and can result in a countertop that varies in thickness, which can lead to installation difficulties—especially at butt joints. Virgin material, though less green, allows for tighter tolerances during fabrication.
The type of resin used to bind paper together also has an impact on the countertop. Phenolic resin, though extremely strong, is caramel in color, which limits the range of color choices. Also, UV-exposure causes phenolic resins to darken over time.
Klip Biotechnologies LLC makes a paper-based countertop, EcoTop, which is made with a different type of manufacturing process. Joel Klippert, the creator of EcoTop, describes the material as “a blend of bamboo fibers, which add dimensional stability to the counter; recycled demolition wood fibers; and recycled paper.” These materials are bound together with a VOC-free water-based resin.
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The resin won’t darken due to UV-exposure and is clear, which enables Klip Biotechnologies to make counters from white to black and many colors in between. Unlike other paper-based counters, EcoTop does not need to be installed by a certified technician.
All paper-based countertops can be cut and shaped with carbide-tipped blades and router bits, just like solid-surface material. Panels are available in sizes as large as 5 ft. wide, 12 ft. long, and 11⁄4 in. thick, depending on the manufacturer. These countertops are stain resistant, but should still be properly finished. Some manufacturers provide their own finish product, which is a combination of natural oils and waxes that enrich the appearance of the top while protecting it from damage.
Damage that does occur, such as scratches and scorch marks, can be sanded out of the top. However, it’s difficult to do without creating a blemish, so refinishing the entire top is recommended. A yearly application of mineral oil or an approved finish will help keep this top looking new.
If you're interested and want to learn more about a specific product, you might find these Web sites helpful:
| Manufacturer | Web Site |
| Paperstone | www.paperstoneproducts.com |
| Shetkastone | www.shetkastone.com |
| Richlite | www.richlite.com |
| EcoTop | www.kliptech.com |
| Price: $35 to $90 per sq. ft. |
| Note: Costs reflect materials only |
| Read the complete article... Amazing Countertops Manufacturers have improved old materials and developed new ones, expanding the potential for new and remodeled kitchens by Rob Yagid  |
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posted in: Blogs
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Comments (13)
Since products like Richlite are manufactured similarly to plywood (several thin layers compressed into one) I wouldn't recommend trying to sand out a deep gouge. Once you've blown through past that first, very thin surface layer, the appearance will change as the lower-level sheets tend to be much lighter in colour. Doesn't look very nice.
Posted: 12:06 pm on May 28th
This type of paper-based panel is durable and strong enough for basement bar purposes.
Barry
http://basementdesignpro.com Posted: 2:39 pm on May 21st
Wow...really? I suppose his argument would be that trees will repopulate much faster than stone? I'm just playing the devil's advocate right now, but if that's the case, then bamboo would seem a far more environmentally-sound option that paper, right? Posted: 11:54 am on May 21st
I don't think that "eco-friendly" should/can be limited in anyway. People often forget the link between the products and materials we use to build our homes, and the energy it takes to create those products. You argue for more responsible energy use, which I totally agree with. But what about all of the energy that's used to mine that soapstone or granite, transform it into a countertop and transport it to your kitchen? What about the lasting affect of the mine itself? I think paper countertops have value not because of their high price, but because of their smaller impact on the environment and our energy consumption. Posted: 12:43 pm on May 20th
So, what’s the greenest countertop out there? In his opinion, it’s a wood countertop made from a tree that fell in your back yard. What’s the worst top from an environmental perspective? In his opinion, that title goes to either concrete or natural stone. He finished the conversation with, “Have you ever seen a stone quarry?”
Posted: 8:25 am on May 20th
Countertop prices (stone in particular) fluctuate pretty drastically. Sure, you can probably find some granite counters for less money than these paper products. However, for many of the eco-conscious folks out there the environmental benefits of a material outweigh the higher cost. Buying counters that were made with recycled content, and made by a company who is trying to make good use of waste is the allure here, not potential cost savings. I think that's a common thread throughout sustainable/green consumerism. People seem willing to pay more for products they feel good about, or that they feel are better for them and the earth. I'd compare it to buying locally grown vegetables instead of buying the dirt cheap genetically modified stuff at the super market. ElGuapo, your granite counters may afford you the minor convenience of placing a hot pot wherever you want to. But again, those in the market for this type of countertop are willing to take on the minor inconvenience of having to place a hot pot on a trivet. FacilityMan, I love your question and I wish I had an answer for you. I'm going to shoot an e-mail to the president of one the companies mentioned in the article for a response. If I get some feedback, I'll post it here. Posted: 12:32 pm on May 18th