Scratches
Solid surface worktops are highly scratch resistant but not scratch proof and the surface must be protected by chopping or cutting boards. Dark, heavily pigmented colours will show scratches, dust and ordinary wear and tear more readily than lighter, textured forms.
Staining
Solid Surface worktops are resistant but care must be taken to clean the worktops down. Solid surface worktops are non-porous and will not absorb liquids, but it is still possible that grease, wine, coffee, nicotine, fruit juices and other strongly coloured substances can stain the surface if not properly protected or if the spills are not cleaned up immediately.
Hygienic
Solid Surface worktops is naturally hygienic as it is non-porous and the seamless joints do not harbour germs.
Handling
For installation of worktops weighing above 120kg, you will need to supply additional labour at no cost to worktops.net. Every additional 75kg requires an extra person to assist with lifting.
Repairable
Solid surface worktops can be repaired. For minor scratches and marks, using an ordinary abrasive cleaner and a scouring pad the surface may be fully restored to its original appearance. For more extensive damage, our specialist team can do repairs.
More specific guidance can be viewed on our Care & Maintenance page.
Solid Surface
Solid surface worktops represent the pinnacle of quality, durability, hygiene, and visual appeal. With exceptional design flexibility, they are increasingly favoured by architects and designers for both residential and commercial kitchens. Whether you're creating a sleek contemporary space or a more traditional setting, solid surfaces adapt beautifully to any style.
At worktops.net, we offer leading brands such as Corian, Diore, Hanex, and Hi-Macs - trusted names known for their performance and aesthetics. When installed by our expert team, you can be confident you're investing in a premium-quality worktop that’s built to last a lifetime—at a price that offers outstanding value.
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Solid Surface
Frequently Asked Questions
They are created from a blend of acrylic resins and natural minerals, resulting in a seamless, non-porous surface.
Yes - scratches and small damages can often be sanded out or repaired, making them very practical.
Absolutely. Sections are bonded together for a smooth, seamless finish, ideal for large kitchens or curved designs.
They can withstand moderate heat, but it’s best to use trivets or mats for very hot pans.
Solid Surface Edge Details
Enhance the finish of your solid surface worktop with our precision-crafted edge profiles. Designed to complement both modern and traditional interiors, our edge details add a stylish, seamless look while maintaining the durability and hygiene benefits of solid surface materials.
Choose from a range of elegant profiles to suit your design preferences and achieve a truly bespoke result. Each edge is expertly fabricated to ensure a smooth, long-lasting finish.
Solid Surface Return End Styles
Return ends are custom-shaped finishes applied to the exposed edges of a solid surface worktop. They’re designed to provide a polished, continuous look where the surface terminates—whether against a wall, cabinet, or open space.
Each return style serves a specific purpose, from creating standout design features to accommodating architectural details or practical use cases. Whether you're planning a flowing curved end, a distinctive break front, or precision notching for cabinetry, these return styles ensure a tailored, high-quality finish.
Explore the full range below to find the perfect return style for your project.
Solid Surface Square & Coved Upstands
Upstands are an essential element for achieving a refined and practical finish where your worktop meets the wall, offering protection against splashes and spills while creating a seamless transition between horizontal and vertical planes.
Square upstands provide a sharp, modern look with a defined 90° junction, and are fixed on-site using special glue or silicone. Coved upstands, in contrast, feature a smooth, curved join that blends effortlessly into the worktop surface, ideal for hygienic environments and easy cleaning. These are manufactured and fixed in the factory for precise integration.
Both types of upstands are fabricated to exacting standards to ensure a perfect match with your solid surface worktop. However, it’s important to note that upstands are made in a straight line, and any imperfections or large variations in the wall profile can leave gaps, which will need to be filled with decorators’ caulk. To achieve the best result, plastering or tiling should be completed after the worktops have been installed, ensuring a polished, professional finish.
Solid Surface Cutouts & Drainer Grooves
Custom cutouts and drainer grooves add both functionality and finesse to your solid surface worktop. Whether you're integrating sinks, hobs, tap holes, or pop-up sockets, each cutout is precisely machined to suit your specifications and seamlessly finished to match the surrounding surface.
Drainer grooves can be added for both style and practicality—angled or flat, they channel water efficiently back into the sink while enhancing the clean, bespoke look of your kitchen or utility space. Every detail is carefully crafted to maintain the durability, hygiene, and elegance of your worktop.
Solid Surface Technical Information
Thermal Expansion
Solid surface worktops can expand up to 1mm per metre and therefore a gap of at least 3mm should be left between the worktop and any walls. These gaps are filled with decorators caulk for a neat finish.
When solid surface worktops are joined to other materials (such as glass, steel or wood) an elastic type of adhesive, for example polyurethane, is required for expansion.
Overhangs and End Panels
Solid Surface Worktops must be supported every 600mm.
Maximum recommended overhang is 300mm. Greater than 300mm requires steel support.
Solid underside wrapping is recommended on overhangs or end panels when MDF substrate is visible beneath.
Due to the weight of solid surface worktops, it is essential that your units are level and securely fixed.
Sinks
Because solid surface worktops are fabricated to give a seamless appearance, it is also possible to install sinks and bowls from the same materials for a smooth and elegant finish.
A minimum of 70mm is required between sink cut-outs.
If a waste disposal unit is fitted to an undermounted sink after installation, additional support will be required, otherwise your warranty may be invalidated.
Hobs and Splashbacks
Splash backs or wall cladding are installed with a minimum 50mm gap behind an electric hob and a minimum 100mm gap behind a gas hob. There must also be a minimum 50mm gap from the cutout to the front of the worktop. To accommodate these requirements, it is sometimes necessary to widen the worktop to what is called a “breakfront.”
- Sink cutouts are placed a minimum 50mm from the worktop front edge
- A minimum of 120mm is required between two hob cutouts
- A minimum of 100mm is required between hob and sink cutouts
- A minimum of 70mm is required between two sink cutouts
- If a waste disposal unit is fitted to an undermounted sink after installation, additional support will be required, otherwise your warranty may be invalidated
