Kichen Worktops - Maia, Workstone, Encore, Minerelle etc

Steve_the_fitter

Maia, Earthstone etc isnt a bad product at all. In fact I think its a pretty good product. It has some advantages over granite being they are waterproof, seamless joints and you can repair them if need be. You need to make sure they are fitted correctly otherwise you will never be happy with them. I fitted my first composite worktop probably 6/7 years ago and have fitted many since then and never had any comeback from my customers so must assume that they are still very happy with them. Saying all that if you want granite have a look on the net and Im sure you will be able to get granite for the same price you would be able to get some composite worktops. I think people look at composite worktops as a cheaper version of granite when really they should be looked at as a alternative to granite and laminate and they have advantages and disadvantages over both.

sheslookinhot

psychy wrote: »

sheslookinghot, are you serious? Maia is a cheaper alternative to Granite, isnt it?? Homebase are probably quoting you sky high prices and then reducing it down on haggling. Deffo can not see Maia costing £3k+

http://www.kitchenappliancecentre.co.uk/maia-solid-surface-worktops-in-cappuccino-1.html?show_prices=true&utm_source=base&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=Base

Using your link, price came in at £2,900. Certainly cheaper than Homebase.

However, still more expensive than granite, even before I think about having the Maia fitted. Also, Alan M has given me an opportunity to reduce my Granite and fitting cost by about £500.

sindygirl58

Ikea do a range of cheap laminates, might be worth a look.

Also, try Duropal and axiom/ formica websites, where you can send for samples.
I would imagine j Lewis to be veryexpensive for these. Could try pricing them from small independant kitchen company?
i still dont like my choice for my kitchen..
I must have had every sample in the country before I chose mine,, I went for duropal, but luckily my OH can fit a new one if I bug him enough!!

sindygirl58

Edinburghlass wrote: »

I used this company with my units from Howdens.

http://www.idsurfaces.co.uk/c-1595-international-decorative-surfaces-riven.aspx

the Riven is textured so doesn't show marks and is slightly glossy.

Your kitchen looks really good pimento

I got mine from here too, but they are trade only.

I paid about £130 per 4m length. I think retail they cost around £180

madget_2

My neighbours had a Corian-type worksurface installed and bitterly regret it. Despite regular buffing to try to get rid of the scratches, it always looks dull and scratched. They would never use it again.

I've recently had straight profiled Duropal laminate fitted and am very pleased with it so far. My neighbours have seen it and say that they wish they'd used that instead.