Finish Steel Support Brackets for the Look You Want

Federal Brace countertop support brackets provide the variety of different selections in shapes and sizes. The companies customization services give you, the designer, the ability to modify and even unique create the support as your design requires. Another area where the Federal Brace countertop support brackets allow you to create as desired is in finishing.

While Federal Brace provides services for finishing steel and even stainless in custom colors and finishes, most of the customers of the company choose to finish the steel brackets off on site at the installation location. By taking this step the designer or client can choose the coloring and texture desired in the finish of their countertop support brackets. There are practically infinite posibilities in finishing on steel, but the real nice thing is that generally any protective paints available from a hardware, paint or box store can be used to finish Federal Brace countertop support brackets.

By using a flat black with a slight texture the look of wrought iron is possible while supporting with the strength of plate steel. In some instances where the unfinished iron look is desired designers will use a clear laquer to finish the bracket. This process brings out the iron colors and variations of color in the metal providing depth and a uniquely rustic appeal to the brackets. Of course, the variety of colors available makes painting the countertop brackets simple. From bright red to cream white, your countertop supports can take on the look you desire.

Heck, stick the countetop bracket on a spinning wheel and let the colors flow - tie-dye countertop supports. Now to figure out what room to put those in...

Granite vs Quartz Countertops

It is generally understood that granite and quartz countertops are the same in characteristics as well as performance. While this is not absolutely the case, the two types of countertop materials are very similar. At a recent NKBA chapter meeting, we learned a little more about the technology used in creating manufacturing quartz and how they compare with granite and other solid surface materials.


Some Highlights:


There are considerably more grades of granite than there are of quartz materials. Granite allows for more variation for those who are looking for this type of aesthetic look. Due to its precise manufacturing process, quartz has less variation and a more consistent look thoughout the slab.


Quartz is manufactured with quartz silica made up primarily of quartz crystal material and resin. The way in which a quartz slab is made, called the Breton process, creates a finished slab that is densely packed with none of the fissures that may be present in granite. This feature of quartz surfaces provide for increased hardness over granite countertops and a greater flex strength.


Quartz surfaces are also presented as being a lower maintenance product than granite and other stone surfaces. Manufactured quartz surfaces are non porous and, according to numerous resources, do not require sealing.


It is important to state that the manufacturers and distributors of quartz countertops suggest that slabs and fabricated countertops be handled in a similar fashion as granite is customarily handled. Proper equipment is necessary for installation and fabrication. Quartz can be damaged by extended exposure to high heat and will fade slightly over time in direct sunlight. Also, some chemicals can cause damage on quartz manufactured surfaces.


Quartz counters that will have overhang portions or will bear heavy weight should be properly supported with an adequate countertop bracket. As a heavy stone material, the quartz countertop weight is similar to granite and should be supported by functional support brackets attached to a substantial support structure.


Ultimately, the selection between granite and quartz for a kitchen design will be based on customer preference. While there may be advantages using one material over the other, the way the countertop looks in the kitchen is going to matter most.


Further Information on Quartz Countertops:

http://www2.dupont.com/Surfaces/en_US/products/zodiaq/index.html


Further Information on Countertop Supports:

http://www.federalbrace.com/