Third-generation builder says solid surface countertops are making a comeback
After 50 years of new home construction and renovation, Welling Construction, Inc. has seen just about everything when it comes to kitchen and bathroom trends. Although some trends are gone forever, think avocado green kitchens and carpeted bathrooms, there is one that is making a welcome comeback.
“When we first started in the early 70s, laminate was the trend in bathroom vanities and kitchen countertops,” said Sean Welling, 3rd generation owner of Welling Construction, Inc. In the 90s, that trend shifted to solid surface which reigned in popularity until the early 2000s when granite became the countertop material of choice. Today, said Sean, that trend is shifting back to solid surface. “We are once again seeing a majority of our clients choose solid surfaces for their kitchen and bathroom projects.”
Solid surface countertops keeping up with current trends
Why the comeback? Sean believes it comes down to options. “In the 90s, if you had a solid surface countertop, you were limited to standard patterns,” he said. “Today, there are a lot more options, including natural colors that look really sharp.”
Brian Smith, director of sales and owner at L.E. Smith, says those options are continually increasing. “There is a strong range of colors and patterns to choose from,” he said. “Neutral colors that mimic natural stone are the most popular, but Wilsonart® continues to come out with new options that are matching current trends in colors and styles.”
Wilsonart® recently introduced new solid surface colors that look like marble, and Sean says it is unlike anything he has ever seen. “I have already had a client order one of the colors that were just released,” he said with confidence that solid surface will continue to be a client favorite. “As long as they continue creating new colors that match current trends, I am sure solid surface will continue to be popular.”
Benefits of solid surface
In addition to offering a wide variety of colors and styles, solid surface bathroom vanities and kitchen countertops offer an upgrade from laminate without the sticker shock that accompanies quartz or granite options. “A lot of our clients don’t want to spend the money on quartz or granite countertops,” said Sean, “When they see the options available in solid surface, they can easily imagine it in their spa-style bathroom or upgraded kitchen. There is also a sense of relief when they realize that they can also fit it in their budget.”
It is not just Sean’s clients that see the value in solid surface. When he and his wife designed their new kitchen, they also chose solid surface for their countertops. “We love our new kitchen and can’t say enough about how easy it is to maintain the solid surface countertops,” said Sean. “We also use our home as a show house for clients and we get a lot of compliments on the kitchen.”
A few of the most popular benefits of solid surface countertops include:
- Price point: Perfectly priced between laminate and quartz
- Color options: Ranging from trendy to natural and everything in between
- Low maintenance: Non-porous properties mean that countertops never need to be sealed and are naturally antimicrobial
- Seamless appearance: Seams are sealed so tightly, they are almost invisible, allowing for clean lines in the kitchen with no place for bacteria to grow
- Durable: Although difficult to damage, solid surface can be easily repaired
L.E Smith, a premier solid surface manufacturer/installer
L.E. Smith is a premier solid surface manufacturer in the Midwest. “We have worked hard to build this reputation,” said Brian. “Our team is committed to ensuring each of our clients are more profitable as a result of partnering with us.”
Welling Construction, Inc, which has partnered with L.E. Smith for 40 years, knows first-hand how this commitment can help the bottom line. “They put out a great product, and they are excellent at communicating project updates,” said Sean. “We know exactly what we are going to get when it will be delivered and how much it is going to cost. You just don’t find that level of service with other companies.
With the experience and technology to custom fabricate solid surface, when you partner with L.E. Smith, you also gain the ability to offer unlimited design options for all your residential projects. Our residential solid surface program offers:
- 20 of the most popular solid surface colors available in-stock
- Professional measurement and installation available
- Delivery to your location or job site is available on all non-installed projects
- Installation process allows for a seamless no-touch experience
If you are interested in learning more about L.E. Smith’s residential solid surface program, contact us at insidesales@lesmith.com or call 419-636-4555.
