Butcher block

If you're planning a new kitchen or even just a face-lift, a new kitchen counter top can really make a big impact! There are quite a few different ways to improve your counter top surfaces.

1. Laminated plastics are available in many colors, patterns and designs. They can be used for counter tops, doors, drawers and many other surfacing applications. Rigid laminated plastic sheets are available in matte or glossy finishes. They are made from layers of paper, first impregnated with resin and then bonded together under pressure and high temperature. 1/16" thickness is used for flat work surfaces and 1/32" on vertical surfaces, such as the short wall between your backsplash and upper cabinets.

2. Most manufactured counter tops are made of high density particle board; however, regular particle board and plywood also make ideal bases for plastic laminates. High-pressure decorative laminates such as "Arborite' brand are popular, and available in dozens of patterns, and hundreds of colors including woodgrains.

3. Unfinished countertops can be covered with laminates, ceramic tiles, cultured marble, real wood veneer; or you might elect to have a solid wood "butcher block" top.

4. Straight sections of manufactured countertops retail from approx. $10- per linear foot, with L and U-shaped tops being more expensive. The shape of your kitchen, and the age and squareness of the house will determine the degree of difficulty involved in fitting the counter top.

5. Pre-fabricated L-shaped tops are available, but you must have a perfectly square corner, or the top will be difficult to fit in place. And of course, U-shaped kitchens are the most difficult, given that you have two corners to match.

7. With U and L designs, it's most often advisable to have the kitchen angles measured, and the counter top manufactured to fit your kitchen. Also, there are variances in cabinet and counter top depths (front to rear) and if you're buying pre-fab, by the foot, you'll want to make sure of your depth measurement, as well as the length.