Countertops Are Not Always As They Seem
At IVO Cabinets & Surfaces, we believe that knowledge is very important for a successful home improvement project. One important aspect we’d like to shed light on is countertop seams. Countertop seams occur when a material slab isn’t big enough to cover the entire area without cutting it into smaller pieces. While they’re not preferable, having seams in your countertop layout doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll be visible. They do not always appear as they “seam.” Seams typically are most visible on a veined/lighter material opposed to a countertop with a uniform, dark color.
What Makes a Good Seam?
A well-executed seam should blend seamlessly into your countertop, not standing out as the first thing you notice when you enter the room. It should be visible and tactile but not strikingly noticeable. To help you gauge our quality, we have samples of seams available for both granite and quartz countertops.
Our Commitment to Quality
As experienced fabricators, IVO Cabinets & Surfaces strives for a tighter seam than industry standards dictate. Additionally, we discuss the possibility of lippage, which is sometimes unavoidable due to the natural warp in countertop materials. While even minor lippage can be noticeable, we ensure that it’s not detectable from the front and back of the countertop. Near the center of the seam, a maximum of 1/32″ is considered acceptable.
Seam Placement Matters
IVO goes the extra mile to place seams in the least vulnerable areas to prevent breakage. However, we value your input, so if you have a preferred location for your seam, let us know, and we’ll provide our best recommendation for placement. We will always try to place seams according any veining & layout preference to reduce their appearance.
Template/Layouts
For stones with intricate patterns or movement, we suggest template or layout appointments. During these appointments, we’ll measure your material precisely and determine the best location for seams. It’s crucial that a homeowner or someone with decision-making authority is present during this process.
Epoxy Bonding
Countertop seams are bonded with epoxy that matches the color of the countertop material, ensuring a cohesive look.
Understanding countertop seams is vital for a successful project. At IVO Cabinets & Surfaces, we prioritize quality, and we’re here to ensure your satisfaction every step of the way. If you have any further questions or concerns about countertop seams or any other aspect of your project, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
