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Solid Surface Countertops

In its role as antacid, the chemical compound alumina trihydrate soothes stomachs. But if you add an acrylic binder, don't swallow the alumina trihydrate cocktail. Use it as a countertop instead.

That's right. Solid surface material (such as Corian) consists of alumina trihydrate and a binder. "Because the mixture is naturally pure white, pigment is added," says Tim Buechler, owner of AFM Surfaces. "Solid surfaces come in hundreds of colors." Then manufacturers shape the mixture into sheets which are turned into counter, desk and table tops and fireplace mantels.

The solid surface's outstanding feature is design flexibility. "You can glue it to itself, and the joints disappear. It looks seamless and can be made into all sort of shapes."

Copyright 2003 Rochester Area Builders, Inc. No part of the Builder's Corner articles may be reproduced or printed without written permission from Rochester Area Builders. 108 Elton Hills Lane NW, Rochester, MN 55901. Phone 507-282-7698.