Did you know that your manufactured home kitchen countertops play a huge rule in enhancing the look and functionality of your home?
Countertops are an important addition to your kitchen. However, it can get damaged over time due to water leaks from the faucets getting under it. And when they get damaged, you’ll have to replace them.
Most replacement kitchen countertops for manufactured homes come in 2-foot increments, and some have corner miter cut. To hold the structure together, you’ll need adhesive and some bolt kits.
But note that the new countertop will be deeper than your older one by many inches. The installation process is also a two-person job since they are heavy and you’ll need an additional hand.
And though they have mitered corners, aligning the seams and seal will be a challenging job.
Types of Manufactured Home Countertop Surfaces
When making a selection, it’s essential to consider the elements it will be exposed to. For the case of the kitchen, the likely elements are ingredients and food materials and so you have to select one that is not affected by these materials.
The good news is you have a wide array of countertop surfaces to choose from. Also, knowing the care and maintenance of each one is important in making the best decision.
From laminate to wood and classic granite, you can get your manufactured home kitchen countertop from a variety of options. Each has its style, design, and you have the liberty to select one based on your needs.
Well, below are some of the most popular surfaces:
- Granite
- Laminate
- Solid Surface
- Ceramic
- Quartz
Countertop Installation Tips
1. Before starting the installation, it’s ideal to evaluate your cabinet and wall condition as they are vital to the process and must be considered when installing the new countertop.
2. Run a tiny dotted line with glue over the cabinet in preparation. Ensure each part remains on top of the dotted glue well.
3. Once it’s firmly in place, ensure the cabinet is well aligned to the construction. Put screws into the cabinet and attach them correctly to the bottom part. Finally, tighten the screws.
4. Finally, get a special silicone sealant for reinstalling the sinks, faucets, and taps. Smoothen the edges with a wet fingertip and caulk the backsplash edges.
How to Care for Your Countertops
The way you will care for your countertop depends on its type and the manufacturer’s instructions.
The general care tips:
1. Use the coasters under drinks
2. Use hot pads under pots and pans
3. Clean any spill immediately
4. Use cutting boards instead of cutting any ingredient or food directly on the counter
Caring for Granite Countertops
1. Get rid of any spellings such as acidic substances immediately
2. Use a soft cloth or a sponge to clean the surfaces
3. Avoid using generic cleaning products like glass cleaners or bleach as they may contain chemicals that can reduce its longevity
4. Avoid using bathroom grout cleaners
Caring for Laminate Countertops
1. Clean the surface using a sponge or damp cloth and mild soap or detergent then rinse it with warm water and dry it completely.
2. If you are cleaning more tough stains like coffee or tea, use a soft-bristled brush and mild household cleaner.
3. Now, scrub the surface vigorously until these stains disappear.
4. In case there are still stains left mix baking soda and water then rub it lightly for about 5 minutes.
5. But don’t over scrub as baking soda can be too abrasive when used for a long time.
Caring for Solid Surface Countertops
1. Avoid placing any hot pan directly to the counter surface.
2. If you encounter any deep crack or cut, call a professional fabricator
3. Also, never use strong acidic cleaners on the countertop surface. Long term exposure of these cleaners could make the surface white, which is hard to remove.
Routine Cleaning:
1. If your solid surface countertop is non-porous, then look for a mild cleanser and damp cloth to conduct regular cleaning
2. If your counter is of a matte finishing, then use a light abrasive cleaner.
Spills and Stains
1. If you try the regular cleaning agents and they don’t get rid of the stains, then try the full-strength bleach. But avoid exposing your countertop surface to more than five minutes of bleach and rinse the surface immediately after bleaching with warm water and general cleanser.
2. If a lit cigarette comes into contact with the kitchen countertop, it can leave a nicotine or scorch mark stain. Get rid of these stains by buffing in a circular motion with a cleaning pad or an abrasive cleaner.
Repairing Scratches
1. You can quickly fix smaller scratches on your countertop by rubbing them with a wet buffing pad in a circular motion.
2. After the surface dries, wipe it with a dry cloth and then a clean cloth.
Caring for Wood Countertops
1. Clean the wood surface immediately if it’s exposed to stains, spills or moisture.
2. Ensure that the counterp doesn’t come to contact with acidic substances, i.e., vinegar
3. Use a soft sponge and a non-toxic surface cleaner to wipe the surface.
Caring for Quartz Countertops
1. For new spills, make sure to immediately wipe up the mess and wash with mild washing detergent afterward.
2. If you are cleaning dry spills, use a surface or glass cleaner and a non-abrasive sponge to get rid of the mess.
3. Use a degreasing product in case there is any grease on your quartz tabletop.
4. Use an adhesive remover to remove permanent marker stains in your countertop then rinse it with some warm water to get rid of any left residues.
Caring for Ceramic Tile Countertops
1. You should clean a ceramic tile countertop with a soft cloth and mild soap.
2. When cleaning, refer to the instruction manual to ensure the cleaning equipment or liquid you are using does not make its warranty void.
What You Need to Know About Choosing Manufactured Home Countertops
1. Wood
Wood counters will remain durable and long-lasting as long as you use the right finishing and treatment products.
Besides, they come with anti-bacterial properties making them safe for preparing food.
There are three different types of wood styles:
- Edge grain
- End grain (butcher block)
- Wide plank.
Pros:
- It is compatible with a variety of treatments
- It’s good and safe for food preparation
- It becomes waterproof when you seal it
- You will enjoy natural unique wood patterns
- Easy to access in the market
Cons
- It can be easily scratched or nicked
- Naturally, the material it’s not waterproof
- You need to treat or seal it to increase its durability
2. Granite
Granite is the one of the best kitchen counters in the market that has a characteristic premium feel and look. This is an excellent upgrade for your kitchen due to its impressive looks and features.
Granite countertops feature a luxurious look which makes it a favorite to those who enjoy redesigning their kitchen to achieve quality, elegance and functionality at a go.
On top of its beauty, it’s highly durable and resistant to heat damage. But note that beauty and quality means a higher price and prepare to spend more money on getting this countertop.
Pros
- Each slap has a unique look
- They’re highly resistant to heat
- It requires low maintenance when you treat it with a sealer
- It’s available in a variety of types and colors.
Cons:
- It is quite expensive
- It’s not possible to DIY the project
3. Marble
Well, if you desire the best style, luxury, and you don’t prefer a granite countertop, then a Marble one will do. It’s one of the most luxurious counters you’ll ever dream of owning in your home. Most people love marble due to its impressive looks and premium quality.
Each of its slabs is also unique and the sheets have a distinct veining pattern. Finally, you’ll love to hear that they are both waterproof and heatproof. However, marble is quite porous and hence gets stained easily. Also, note that it’s in the same price range as granite.
Pros:
- It’s waterproof and heatproof
- It comes in an impressive look
- Provides high-value upgrade for your kitchen
Cons:
- It is quite expensive
- Its repairs are quite challenging
4. Tile
If you are looking for a waterproof kitchen countertop, then I’ll suggest going for tiled ones. Regardless of whether its porcelain or ceramic, they are highly durable. However tiled porcelain countertops are quite impervious to water while tiled ceramics are less challenging to cut or handle.
However, if you don’t handle them well, then they’ll crack. The good news is you can DIY the project.
Tiles are also available in different colors and patterns, and you can, therefore, get anything you want.
However, before choosing tiles for your countertop, ensure they are first rated for kitchen use as you may end up getting fragile ones meant for other structures. Also, ensure the tiles you choose are sealed for an even and smoother surface.
Pros
- Tiles come in a wide variety of options.
- You can easily DIY the project
- Tiles are waterproof and resistant to heat damage
- They are quite affordable
Cons
- Tiles are quite prone to breaking and cracking
- The mortar requires maintenance and replacement after some time.
5. Stainless steel
Stainless steel is also one of the perfect options for your manufactured home kitchen countertop. This type surface surface reflects light and will, therefore, make your room brighter.
Shiny and sleek, this material is perfect if you desire your manufactured home kitchen to have an industrial look.
Besides, these don’t require much cleaning or sanitizing, which makes them a favorite for many professional chefs.
However, some people feel that stainless steel counters may look so impersonal, but you can change that by blending it with other materials and textures in your kitchen.
Pros:
- Resistant to stain and spills
- It is fairly durable
- Easy to clean and resistant to heat damage
- It is ideal for both home and commercial use
Cons
- Stainless steel countertops scratch easily hence cannot be used for cutting
- They are prone to denting
6. Laminate
Laminates are made by fabricators from synthetics, which are then coated with plastics. The surface of the laminates is quite smooth and easy to clean. You only need to wipe them.
Fabricators usually sell the laminates as pre-formed segments. But you can also order to fabricate custom dimensions and sizes for your kitchen use.
Though laminate countertops have a wide array of colors, styles, and patterns, they don’t possess that luxurious look like the other types.
Provided you adhere to the correct laminate installation steps and treat it, it’ll be waterproof.
But you have to be careful with these countertops as they can quickly get damaged and repairing them is no easy.
Avoid using it when cutting vegetables, meat, or ingredients – instead, get a chopping board for the use.
Pros
- It’s possible to DIY the project
- Easy to clean unlike most types of countertops
- It requires less maintenance
- It is available in a wide variety of options
Cons:
- Adds less value to your kitchen compared to other options.
- It requires edging and backlash treatment for it to remain durable.
7. Solid-surface
Solid-surface countertops are made from a combination of resin and acrylic by fabricators. Initially, these surfaces were used in place of natural stone, but it ended up being highly durable and cheaper than most alternatives like granite.
Although it’s been in the market for a few years, many manufacturers are producing it, and it comes in a wide array of options to suit the taste of different users.
The good news with solid-surface countertops is you can DIY the installation from the start to end.
Pros
- It is quite cheaper than natural stone
- Its seams are not visible
- It’s available in a variety of patterns and colors
- It’s possible to remove any damage by sanding out
Cons
- It’s quite costly Still relatively expensive
- The countertops are prone to scratches
8. Quartz
Quartz countertops are produced from quartz and other minerals then sealed with resin. These countertops are the best alternative to granite and natural marble.
Besides, they are resistant to wearing and are non-porous – that is, they don’t require any sealing. Also, most fabricators design the quartz countertops to suit the appearance of the natural stones.
Pros
- It is available in a wide variety of colors
- It doesn’t require any sealing
- It is both stain and scratch-resistant
- It can be custom fabricated
Cons:
- Quite expensive than other options
- It’s heavy
9. Concrete
Concrete is one of the best kitchen countertops for those in need of custom kitchen constructions. But the complete slabs are hefty, and you’ll, therefore, need it to be cast in your place. This also makes it easier to customize to your desired specs and dimensions.
But don’t fear that concrete will appear too cold in your kitchen like those in the sidewalks. This is because you’ll be able to polish them.
Also, you can apply acid on it to produce an array of different colors.
One downside is that concrete is prone to cracks. And it can be too porous unless you treat it. Overall, it is still a durable and long-lasting material.
Pros:
- It is highly customizable
- It’s possible to color it via staining
- It’s easier to repair damages on this material
- Durable, long-lasting and heat resistant
Cons
- Prone to cracks
- It requires regular sealing
Outdoor Kitchen Countertops
If you are planning to have an outdoor kitchen in the backyard, then you’ll love to hear that there are fantastic ideas on the countertops to use.
Outside, you will require some space for cooking your food and also placing the utensils and ingredients. Therefore, you’ll need a countertop that is stain and scratch-resistant.
You can go for the natural stone as it blends with the outside though tiles are a popular option too.
Related: How Can You Protect Countertops and Cabinets from Dishwasher Steam?
In Closing
You should always try the kitchen countertops that match your style and décor. They are a perfect way of decorating your manufactured home. But ensure that they’re also functional and not elegant alone.
When it comes to manufactured home kitchen countertops, you can access a wide array of options in the market. From the granite to laminate and tile countertops, you will always get one that matches your needs.
Besides, you can choose your favorite tile from a multitude of colors, patterns, and styles, ensuring you get something that matches your needs.
Find your ideal surface today and enjoy converting your kitchen space into a blend of décor and functionality.
