A countertop is a horizontal workspace found in kitchens, dining areas,
and workrooms in general.  Countertops are installed above cabinets and
are also supported by them.  The size of a countertop is approximately
25 inches from front to back. Countertops are usually designed to
overhang standard kitchen base cabinets.  There are many ways to decorate a
countertop and many types of countertop finishes for various
countertops including: matte or satin, semi-gloss, gloss, and high gloss.  Most
Corian sinks have a matte finish.

Countertop Care

Countertops can be damaged by abuse and carelessness; however, caring
for countertops can be done in many ways.  The countertop surfaces
should be cleaned regularly.  Hard substances should not be kept on the
countertop to eliminate the chances of getting streaks on the countertop. 
Sometimes the surface can even break. The most important thing in
countertop care is proper installation of the countertop.  By protecting the
surface is the best way to care for a countertop. A good countertop
gives years of satisfaction to the user.  Frequent cleaning is helpful in
maintaining the beauty and original shine of the countertop.

Countertop Care Tips
 
There are several useful tips to remember when it comes to countertop
care.  Hot objects should not be placed on the surface of the
countertop. Surfaces should not be cleaned with abrasive cleaners, powders, steel
wool, sand paper or other such materials that are harmful to it.  It
should instead be cleaned with a neat, damp, non-abrasive cotton cloth
and a mild liquid detergent or household cleaner. Dry the surface using
same type of cotton cloth.

Regular application of a self-cleaning wax helps in minimizing future
staining. A countertop polish can also be used for protection.  Soapy
water and ammonia-based cleaners are helpful in removing most of the dirt
and stains from all types of finishes.  Difficult stains can be removed
by using some other advanced or different technique, but it depends
largely on the type of the finish.  Vegetables should not be directly cut
on the countertops to prevent cuts on the surface area.  The
countertops should not be exposed to strong chemicals such as paint removers,
oven cleaners and many other such things.