With the softness and the color patterns, zinc countertops can look like they’ve been around for decades after only a few weeks.” Finishes—There are three main types of finishes offered by Mio Metals: polished, matte or patina. In each case, the initial appearance is different but the metal is still likely to react the same way regardless. With a shiny polished finish the patina forms a little slower as the surface is smoothed down and less likely to react easily. Matte finish is the most common for countertops, and it helps the zinc react with everything from fingerprints to tap water. With patinaed zinc, an acid is used to create a reaction with the top surface. This is ideal for applications that need a specific look from inception.
Figure 4 — Like laminate or granite, there will likely be seams in zinc countertops and it can almost certainly be expected in countertops longer than 120 in. or those with intersecting shapes, as can be seen in this 6-in. edge profile in Paris in Town Cafe, in Florida. Zinc as a Countertop Material Zinc is part of a design trend that includes the use of natural surface materials with rustic or unique looks. It is a mineral essential for human health, but like many things, ingesting too much is not good. As such, it is not used for cookware, but it is safe for everyday countertop use. With a natural silver color, zinc is a soft metal that will react to its environment. In a counter or tabletop situation, the reactions
Seams—there will likely be seams in zinc countertops ,and it can almost certainly be expected in countertops longer than 120 in. Likewise, L-shaped countertops will have seams (see Figure 4). With Mio Metals, in some applications the countertop will ship in sections that will bolt together on location and the seam will just butt together. However, seams can be soldered and sanded down flush. If carefully planned for, long straight sections can be broken up evenly or seams can sometimes be hidden around cutouts.
will be more diverse and frequent than other applications, such as a range hood. A full understanding of what it will be like to live with zinc countertops is key to customer satisfaction. “If you’re expecting an even color, always polished surface, please consider a different material,” said Cain. “Zinc reacts with everything from water to fingerprints to lemon juice, and hopefully this is part of the appeal. It also may develop dents and scratches.
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Toll Free: (877) 464-7732 www.ISFAnow.org Circle RS#05 on page 49 or visit www.isfanow.org/info. International Surface Fabricators Association • Vol. 5 / Issue 2 • 17