Epoxy or Phenolic Resin – The Better Choice for Countertops

The choice of materials for countertops is no more limited to granite and marble. A variety of resins have started appealing the homeowners to make their countertops even more appealing and functional. Epoxy resin and phenolic resin are two great choices in this direction because of numerous advantages they offer.

Apart from kitchen countertops at homes, these two resins are also popular for installing at laboratories and workplaces. While there are many common advantages they offer, there are few points of difference between them. The following sections evaluate these advantages and differences.

Advantages of Epoxy Resin:

Formed through reaction between epichlorohydrin and bisphenol-A, epoxy resin is a thermosetting polymer widely used as laminate and adhesive. The very first advantage of the resin is that it has waterproofing qualities. For being moisture-resistant, it serves as a long-lasting coating for countertops.

In addition, the material is completely resistant to the actions of harsh chemicals. As a result, the epoxy are popular at places like labs, hospitals and restaurants. Under harsh working conditions, the countertops coated with epoxy resin can work excellently, as the material can withstand intense physical forces.

Durability is another great aspect of the material because of the type of structure it has. Going further, they demand least maintenance and are easy to clean. Stains and marks can be easily wiped off from the surface. There is no limit to the countertop designs that can be created using epoxy. Unique and admirable designed can be obtained by tinting the material. Sophisticated and attractive countertops coated with epoxy resin are admired by one and all.

Advantages of Phenolic Resin:

Phenolic resin is obtained through the reaction between phenol and formaldehyde. One of the earliest known synthetic resins to man, phenolic is equally advantageous as epoxy. It is an aromatic material with great resistant to a variety of chemicals. Because of this quality, chemical laboratories are the most common places where the phenolic countertops are found.

Another advantage of the material is that it is resistant to fire. Phenolic resin doesn’t burn, but it has the ability to char. As a result, the material disallows the spread of fire in case of accidental breakouts. In addition, the material is heat resistant and can withstand high temperatures.

It is made of phenolic resin have a hygienic appeal. They are easy to clean and demand little maintenance. Moreover, they can last longer, thereby offering great value for money. Durability and designing flexibility are other impressive benefits that the material offers.

The advantages offered by the two types of resins are numerous and almost similar. When it comes to comparison, phenolic prove to be less expensive than epoxy. Phenolic countertops are also lighter in weight and easier to field fabricate.

Despite of these minor differences, both types are equally popular. Spend enough time choosing among the variety of designs available.