10/23/2026
Planning new countertops? Swipe through for answers about materials, ordering, timing, samples, seams, and more. Save this post to revisit with your designer as your project comes together.
WHERE WE SERVE
Planning a project in Maine or New Hampshire? Our countertops are available through a network of retailers across both states. Your kitchen retailer or designer can help you explore the options for your space.
HOW TO ORDER
Shad’s is a wholesale manufacturer, so your countertop purchase goes through a participating kitchen dealer, lumberyard, or home center. They’ll help with your selections, quote, and order. Find a retailer at getshad.com/dealers.
COUNTERTOP OPTIONS
We make postform laminate, custom square edge laminate, and acrylic solid surface countertops. The best fit depends on your layout, edge preferences, color selection, and project needs. Your designer can walk you through the differences.
Granite Quartz and Stone
Our specialty is laminate and acrylic solid surface; we don’t manufacture or sell granite, quartz, or other stone countertops. Love the look of stone? Many laminate and solid surface designs offer stone-inspired colors and patterns.
QUICK SHIP
Working with a tighter schedule? Ask your designer about our 20 stock postform laminate colors and current availability. Quick Ship stock products follow a designated delivery schedule; projects requiring templating and installation follow a separate timeline.
EXISTING CABINETS
A countertop upgrade doesn’t always mean replacing your cabinets. Existing cabinets may work if they’re structurally sound, level, square, and securely installed. Have their condition reviewed before you finalize plans for your new countertops.
CUSTOM LAYOUTS
Bring your ideas to your designer. They prepare the drawing and help coordinate the layout and material choices, while we fabricate your countertop to suit the plan. Custom square edge laminate and acrylic solid surface offer flexibility for your space.
SEAMS AND PATTERNS
Seam appearance depends on your layout, material, and pattern. Where laminate seams are needed, they remain visible. Solid surface seams are usually less noticeable, though veined designs can show transitions. Review seam examples with your designer before choosing.
COLOR SAMPLES
Ask your designer about available samples, then compare your options alongside your cabinets, flooring, tile, and other applicable fixtures. Looking at the finishes together can help you picture the space. For veined or directional laminate, ask about seam photos, too.
INSTALLATIONS
We template and install postform laminate, custom square edge laminate, and acrylic solid surface countertops. Your kitchen retailer or designer can coordinate these services as part of your order and help you understand what to expect as your project moves toward installation.
TURNAROUND TIME
Planning your project schedule? Our typical turnaround for an installation is 3–4 weeks from the date we template your countertops. Keep that starting point in mind when coordinating your renovation and work with your designer or retailer on the timing.
HOT PANS
Keep a suitable trivet or heat-protective pad within reach while cooking. Use one every time you set down hot cookware, whether you choose laminate or acrylic solid surface. It’s a simple everyday habit that helps protect your countertop.
SCRATCHES AND REPAIRS
Repair options depend on your countertop material and the type of damage. Share photos and details with your designer to discuss the next step. Acrylic solid surface can often be repaired or refinished, but each situation needs its own assessment.
INTEGRATED SINKS
Yes, laminate can have an integrated sink with our Karran Edge sink selections, for both postform and custom square edge countertops. This applies specifically to those sink options. Your designer can help you review the choices for your project.
