If you’ve recently embarked on a kitchen remodel, you’re likely weighing a lot of decisions. Should I go with marble or quartzite countertops? Does this tile backsplash match my cabinet color? But there’s one critical choice you might not have considered yet that will have a huge impact on the outcome of your kitchen – your counter sub-top.
First, what is a counter sub-top?
A sub-top is the supportive base installed beneath your countertop. Traditionally, these have been made out of plywood, which is prone to warping, mold formation, and can even contain formaldehyde. Sub-tops are always partially exposed under the counter’s overhangs, which unfortunately means so are you.
The drawbacks of plywood don’t stop there. It has limited strength, so if you want a countertop with a longer overhang, your fabricator or contractor will need to engineer metal frames called corbels to support it. This can be time-consuming and add to the overall cost of your remodel – the last thing you need.
What is Safeboard, and why is it better?
Meet Safeboard, the first ever engineered sub-top system and the new industry standard. It’s safe, formaldehyde-free, and thanks to durable aluminum and an engineered honeycomb core, much sturdier than any alternative.
Here are the top 5 reasons why you should use Safeboard under your stone countertops.
Protects your investment
After investing in the highest quality stone for your countertops, it’s crucial to support them with the best installation materials. Safeboard was built to last and lets you enjoy your beautiful countertops worry-free. You won’t have to think about any of the long-term problems that come with plywood such as water damage and warping, which can put the integrity of your countertops at risk.
It’s sanitary and water-resistant
Safeboard is water and moisture-resistant. This makes it less susceptible to bacteria growth -unlike plywood – which absorbs water and can grow unwelcome bacteria that you don’t want in your kitchen.
Exceptionally strong and durable
Safeboard is 4 times more rigid than plywood. Your fabricator can safely install a 16-inch overhang with a ⅝ panel of Safeboard, without the need for any additional support such as steel or corbels. Made up entirely of high-durability aluminum, it has a strategically engineered honeycomb core bonded between two rigid layers to create incredible strength that beats plywood every time.
No formaldehyde
Unfortunately, plywood often contains formaldehyde, a known toxin that can cause adverse health effects. It’s always wise to limit exposure whenever possible, especially in your brand-new kitchen, where you will be cooking and spending time with family and friends.
Tested and proven technology
Safeboard might be a new and disruptive product in the stone industry, but it’s also been rigorously tested by engineers and has already proven to work in tens of thousands of projects across the United States. When you choose Safeboard, you’re choosing a healthier, safer, cleaner option that will maintain the integrity of your stone countertops over time.
How can I get my fabricator or contractor to use Safeboard?
If you aren’t sure what your contractor is using under your new stone countertops and you want to suggest Safeboard, it’s easy! Contractors that have used Safeboard love it because it’s lightweight, easy to use, and protects their craftsmanship better than any alternative. It’s available for purchase at the Stone West locations in Ventura and Paso Robles, or through authorized distributors on the Safeboard website.