Last Updated on June 5, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford
When it comes to choosing a countertop material, there are many options to choose from. You can go with a traditional material like granite or marble, or you can try something a little different and choose a solid surface countertop.
There are two main types of solid surface countertops: polyester and acrylic. Both have their own unique benefits and drawbacks, so how do you know which is best for you? In this blog post, we will compare and contrast polyester vs. acrylic solid surface countertops, so that you can make an informed decision about which one is right for your home!
Related: 22 Types of Countertops: Which One Is the Best for You?
Polyester solid surface countertops.
What is a polyester solid surface countertop?
A polyester solid surface countertop is made from a material that is a mix of plastic and stone. This makes it more durable than other types of countertops, such as laminate or tile. Polyester solid surface countertops are also heat-resistant and easy to clean.
Pros of polyester solid surface countertops:
Polyester solid surface countertops are a great choice for many homeowners because they are durable, easy to clean, and come in a variety of colors. In addition, polyester solid surface countertops are heat resistant and can withstand high temperatures.
Polyester solid surface countertops are also non-porous, which means they will not absorb spills or stains.
Cons of polyester solid surface countertops:
Polyester is one of the most affordable solid surface materials on the market, but it also has some drawbacks. Polyester countertops can scratch and dent easily, and they’re not as heat-resistant as other materials like granite or quartz.
Acrylic solid surface countertops.
What is an acrylic solid surface countertop?
An acrylic solid surface countertop is a type of countertop made from a material that is composed of acrylic resin and fillers. It is often used in kitchens and bathrooms because it has a non-porous surface that is resistant to bacteria and stains.
Pros of acrylic solid surface countertops:
-They are non-porous and therefore resistant to stains, mould and mildew.
-They are easy to clean and maintain.
-They are heat resistant, making them ideal for use in kitchens.
-They are available in a wide range of colours and patterns.
-They are seamless, giving them a clean and modern look.
-They are durable and have a long lifespan.
-They are repairable, meaning that any scratches or chips can be easily repaired.
-They are affordable, making them a great option for those on a budget.
Cons of acrylic solid surface countertops:
Acrylic solid surface countertops are not heat resistant. You can’t place hot pots or pans directly on the countertop without the use of a trivet.
They are also susceptible to scratches and cuts, so you’ll need to be careful when using knives or other sharp objects.
If not properly cared for, acrylic solid surface countertops can develop stains and discoloration.
Polyester vs. Acrylic Solid Surface Countertops
Appearance.
In terms of appearance, both polyester and acrylic solid surface countertops have a high-gloss finish. However, polyester countertops have a more uniform appearance due to the way they are manufactured. Acrylic solid surface countertops, on the other hand, can have a slightly mottled appearance because they are made from bits of acrylic that are fused together.
When it comes to choosing between polyester and acrylic solid surface countertops, it really comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a more uniform look, then polyester is the way to go. If you don’t mind a slightly mottled appearance, then acrylic is a good choice.
Color.
It’s one of the main reasons people choose polyester or acrylic solid surface countertops. And it’s one of the main reasons people are confused about which type of countertop to choose.
Here’s a quick rundown on the colors available for each type of countertop:
Polyester: Polyester countertops come in a wide range of colors, from muted earth tones to bright and bold hues. You can find just about any color you want in a polyester countertop.
Acrylic: Acrylic solid surface countertops are available in a limited range of colors, usually white or light gray. However, there are a few companies that offer a wider range of colors, including black and dark gray.
So, what does this all mean for you? If you’re looking for a wide range of colors to choose from, polyester is the way to go. If you’re looking for a limited range of colors, acrylic is the way to go. It’s really that simple.
Hardness.
Polyester countertops are harder than acrylic countertops. This is because polyester is a stronger material. It is also less likely to scratch or dent.
Acrylic countertops are softer than polyester countertops. This makes them more susceptible to scratches and dents. However, they can be easily repaired if they do become damaged.
Cost.
When it comes to cost, both polyester and acrylic solid surface countertops are very affordable options. Acrylic solid surface countertops are typically more expensive than polyester ones, but they offer a much higher quality product.
Composition.
Polyester solid surface countertops are made of polyester resin, which is a plastic material. Acrylic solid surface countertops are made of acrylic resin, which is also a plastic material. Both types of materials are durable and easy to care for. However, there are some differences in the composition of these two types of materials.
Polyester solid surface countertops are made of polyester resin, which is a plastic material. The main difference between polyester and acrylic resins is that polyester solid surface countertops contain fillers, such as calcium carbonate or aluminum hydroxide. These fillers make the countertop more durable and less likely to scratch or dent.
Acrylic solid surface countertops are made of acrylic resin, which is also a plastic material. However, unlike polyester resins, acrylic resins do not contain fillers. This makes them less durable and more likely to scratch or dent. However, they are less likely to stain than polyester solid surface countertops.
Seam Visibility.
One of the main differences between polyester and acrylic solid surface countertops is the visibility of seams. Seams are more visible on polyester countertops, while they are nearly invisible on acrylic countertops. This is because the material of acrylic countertops can be blended together much more seamlessly than polyester.
Durability.
When it comes to durability, both polyester and acrylic solid surface countertops are incredibly durable. However, acrylic is slightly more durable than polyester. Acrylic is less likely to scratch or chip than polyester, making it the better choice for high-traffic areas or homes with children.
So, when it comes to choosing between polyester and acrylic solid surface countertops, durability should be one of your main considerations. If you need a countertop that can withstand a lot of wear and tear, then acrylic is the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a countertop that’s beautiful and stylish, then polyester may be the better option for you.
Repairs And Replacements.
When it comes to repairing or replacing your countertops, both polyester and acrylic solid surface materials have their pros and cons. Polyester is less expensive but can be more difficult to repair, while acrylic is more expensive but easier to repair.
If you’re looking to replace your countertops entirely, acrylic solid surface is the way to go. It’s more expensive than polyester, but it will last longer and is easier to repair if anything happens.
Maintenance.
Polyester and acrylic solid surface countertops are easy to maintain. You can clean them with a damp cloth or sponge and mild soap. For tougher stains, you can use a household cleaner or sandpaper. Be sure to rinse the area well after cleaning and drying it with a soft cloth.
Heat Resistance.
When it comes to heat resistance, both polyester and acrylic solid surface countertops perform well. However, polyester is slightly more resistant to heat than acrylic. This means that polyester is a better choice for areas where there is likely to be high heat, such as near a stovetop.
Water resistance.
Acrylic solid surface countertops are more water resistant than polyester ones. This is because acrylic is a non-porous material, meaning that it does not absorb water. Polyester, on the other hand, is a porous material, meaning that it absorbs water.
This means that acrylic countertops are less likely to stain from spills and are easier to keep clean. They are also less likely to harbor bacteria.
If you are looking for a countertop that is resistant to water damage, then acrylic is the better choice. However, if you are looking for a countertop that has a more natural look, then polyester might be the better choice.
Scratch resistance.
When it comes to scratch resistance, both polyester and acrylic solid surface countertops perform well. However, acrylic solid surface countertops are slightly more resistant to scratches than polyester ones. This is because the material is harder and more durable.
Stain resistance.
Polyester and acrylic solid surface countertops are both resistant to staining. However, polyester is more resistant to staining than acrylic. Polyester is also more resistant to heat and scratches. If you are looking for a countertop that is stain resistant, polyester is the better option.
Chip resistance.
Polyester countertops are more resistant to chipping and scratching than acrylic countertops. This is because polyester is a harder material. However, both types of countertops can be damaged by sharp objects or excessive force.
Crack resistance.
When it comes to crack resistance, both polyester and acrylic solid surface countertops perform well. However, acrylic countertops are slightly more resistant to cracks and chips than their polyester counterparts. So, if you’re looking for a countertop that will stand up to everyday wear and tear, an acrylic solid surface countertop may be the better choice.
Sealing Needs.
Acrylic solid surface countertops will need to be sealed every few years, while polyester countertops only need to be sealed every ten years or so. Both types of countertops are easy to clean and maintain, but acrylic surfaces may require more care than polyester.
Lifespan.
When it comes to lifespan, both polyester and acrylic solid surface countertops are incredibly durable. However, acrylic countertops may last slightly longer than their polyester counterparts. This is due to the fact that acrylic is a harder material, meaning it is less likely to scratch or chip over time.
Home Resale Value.
When it comes to home resale value, both polyester and acrylic solid surface countertops are good choices. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Polyester countertops may not have the same high resale value as granite or marble, but they will still add value to your home. Acrylic solid surface countertops, on the other hand, are less likely to add value to your home.
So, if you’re looking for a countertop that will increase the resale value of your home, polyester is the better choice. However, if you’re more concerned with durability and cost, acrylic solid surface is a good option.
Fabrication.
When it comes to fabrication, polyester and acrylic solid surface countertops are very similar. Both can be cut, shaped, and drilled using standard woodworking tools. However, there are a few key differences to keep in mind.
Polyester countertops are generally less expensive than their acrylic counterparts. They’re also easier to work with, making them a good choice for DIY projects. However, polyester is not as heat-resistant as acrylic and can be scratched more easily.
Acrylic countertops are more durable and heat-resistant than polyester, but they’re also more expensive. They’re the better choice for high-traffic areas or homes with small children.
DIY Installation.
When it comes to choosing between polyester and acrylic solid surface countertops, there are a few things you need to take into account. The most important factor is the installation process.
If you’re planning on doing a DIY installation, then acrylic is the better choice. Acrylic countertops are much easier to work with and can be cut and drilled with standard tools. Polyester countertops, on the other hand, require special tools and skills to work with.
Environmental Issues.
When it comes to environmental concerns, both polyester and acrylic solid surface countertops have their pros and cons. Polyester is derived from petroleum, which means it’s not a renewable resource. On the other hand, acrylic is derived from natural gas, which is a renewable resource.
In terms of emissions, polyester produces more greenhouse gases than acrylic does. However, both types of countertops are considered to be low-emitting materials.
When it comes to recycling, polyester can be recycled, but it’s not as easy to recycle as acrylic is. Acrylic can be melted down and made into new products, which makes it a more sustainable option.
Polyester vs. Acrylic Solid Surface Countertops: Final Verdict.
When it comes to choosing a new countertop, there are many factors to consider. But ultimately, the decision comes down to two main choices: polyester or acrylic solid surface.
So, which one is the better option? Here is a final verdict on polyester vs. acrylic solid surface countertops:
Polyester has a lower heat resistance than acrylic, so it is not the ideal choice for kitchens where there is a lot of cooking and baking. However, polyester is more scratch-resistant than acrylic and is less likely to stain.
Acrylic solid surface countertops are more heat-resistant and less likely to stain than polyester. However, they are also more susceptible to scratches.
So, which countertop is the better choice? It really depends on your needs and preferences. If you are looking for a durable and heat-resistant countertop, then acrylic solid surface is the way to go. But if you are worried about scratching or staining, then polyester might be the better option.
Countertop Comparisons:
- Laminate vs. Granite Countertops: Which is Better for You?
- Quartz Countertops vs. Laminate Countertops: Pros and Cons
- Quartz vs. Solid Surface (Corian) Countertops: What’s the Difference?
- Quartz vs. Marble Countertops: The Ultimate Showdown (Cost, Installation)
- Quartz vs. Granite Countertops: Installation, Durability, Cost
- Laminate vs. Marble Countertops: What’s the Difference?
- Laminate vs. Solid Surface Countertops: Which Is the Best for You?
- Corian Solid Surface vs. Granite Countertops: Which is Best For You?
