Recyled Countertops
What Are Composite and Recycled Countertops?
First of all, let's define what we mean by 'composite' and 'recycled' countertops. Composite means that they're made from the combination of several distinct materials but don't really fall under the other standard countertop classifications like laminate or solid surface.
Recycled countertops are not old countertops that have been reprocessed into new ones, but rather, made from recycled and reused materials. In most cases, the terms 'recycled' and 'composite' are used interchangeably since many composite countertops use recycled materials.
Now that it's clear as mud, perhaps some specific examples will help clarify things.
The materials used in composite and recycled countertops are an eclectic bunch. Some products are paper-based using new or recycled paper or a combination of both. Others composite or recycled countertops reuse old glass or a combination of paper, fly-ash (a by-product of coal combustion) and Portland cement. Still others use scrap aluminum chips resulting from the milling process in the production of other products. In most cases, these materials are combined with a "glue" binder made from resins, epoxy or cement that holds the ingredients together and results in a countertop you can ultimately make a sandwich on.
Regardless of what you call them, the appeal of recycled countertops is that they offer a more eco-friendly alternative to standard countertop choices. They make productive use of materials that otherwise would be destined for landfills or the incinerator.
If you're looking for a kitchen countertop that's "greener" than the standard fare, a recycled or composite countertop may be what you're looking for.
Below are some links to a few popular Brands
paperstoneproducts.com
squakmountainstone.com
suberra.com
trinityglassproducts.com
vetrazzo.com
First of all, let's define what we mean by 'composite' and 'recycled' countertops. Composite means that they're made from the combination of several distinct materials but don't really fall under the other standard countertop classifications like laminate or solid surface.
Recycled countertops are not old countertops that have been reprocessed into new ones, but rather, made from recycled and reused materials. In most cases, the terms 'recycled' and 'composite' are used interchangeably since many composite countertops use recycled materials.
Now that it's clear as mud, perhaps some specific examples will help clarify things.
The materials used in composite and recycled countertops are an eclectic bunch. Some products are paper-based using new or recycled paper or a combination of both. Others composite or recycled countertops reuse old glass or a combination of paper, fly-ash (a by-product of coal combustion) and Portland cement. Still others use scrap aluminum chips resulting from the milling process in the production of other products. In most cases, these materials are combined with a "glue" binder made from resins, epoxy or cement that holds the ingredients together and results in a countertop you can ultimately make a sandwich on.
Regardless of what you call them, the appeal of recycled countertops is that they offer a more eco-friendly alternative to standard countertop choices. They make productive use of materials that otherwise would be destined for landfills or the incinerator.
If you're looking for a kitchen countertop that's "greener" than the standard fare, a recycled or composite countertop may be what you're looking for.
Below are some links to a few popular Brands
paperstoneproducts.com
squakmountainstone.com
suberra.com
trinityglassproducts.com
vetrazzo.com