What metal should I choose?
Well, it depends...
In the silver family, we offer pewter and zinc. If you are looking for a bright, shiny, silver metal, that can be continually polished, then pewter counter tops is the right choice for you. If, on the other hand, you prefer a more worn, blue-grey hue, than a zinc countertop is a perfect choice.
In the gold family of metals, we offer bronze and copper. If you want something completely unique, bronze is your best bet. In fact, we are the only company to offer 100% cast bronze countertops. Bronze will patina a beautiful golden brown over time and warm up any room. Copper is another beautiful choice as it too is very unique. Again, we are the only company that offers 100% cast copper counter tops, transforming copper from a log-cabin feel, to something truly elegant and sophisticated.
What is patina?
Patina is a tarnish, produced by a chemical processes, that forms on the surface of many types of metals. When exposed to the elements, a coating of various chemical compounds, such as oxides or carbonates, form on the surface and can take decades to acquire an antiqued aesthetic. However, at Bastille Metal Works, we utilize years of experience to achieve the desired level of patina, treating each project like a piece of fine art sculpture. Don't be fooled. Patination can be as simple as spraying chemicals on metal haphazardly. Our methods are much more refined and exact. Getting the level of patination can be excruciatingly laborsome. Some metals, like zinc, require this oxidation to be stable.
How are are your countertops priced?
Our pricing is based on the metal you choose and the surface area of the project and the finish. We are known for not up-charging for what we consider design elements, such a the edge profile, marine edges or drink rails. We prefer a perfect finished product than an unfinished looking design, based on cutting corners, Contact us here to get an estimate.
How are the countertops shipped?
Bastille Metal Works takes great pains to ensure the integrity of your counter top or bar top. We custom build wooden crates to size for each counter top we ship. We add braces so that the edges do not touch the crate. Additionally, we pad the counter tops as an extra precaution to ensure that the counter top reaches its final destination safely and uncompromised.
Do you provide installation?
Bastille Metal Works actually goes a step furthur. We have recently added an on-site casting facility as a means to cast large commercial and residential projects at the job site. Our bonded and insured staff will come to your site to measure and template the countertop. They will then custom build the substrate and cast the countertop in our mobile unit. Within a few days, the casted countertop is installed, patinated and polished to order. When our staff leaves, your new zinc or pewter counter top is complete. While this may sound very expensive, we find that it is very little is any more expensive than the expense of building suitable crates and shipping countertops across the country, then having your general contractor doing the installation and accepting the liability of damage. Contact us here to find out more about our mobile casting unit.
Can a sink be added to a countertop?
We often are asked how to incorporate a sink into a counter or bar top. There are two ways of doing so. We can either under-mount a sink or seamlessly weld and integrate the sink into the final casting of the countertop. You can provide us the sink or we can order the sink for you. We can also provide a cut-out for a sink to later be installed.
How will my countertop wear?
The metals we use for our counter tops are living alloys. They respond to their environment. Changes in the hue of the counter tops and bar tops will happen naturally with use. A patina, or darkening, will occur over time and use. Keep in mind that while different foods and beverages may make a mark on the counter top, because these metals are non-porous, it is virtually stain resistant. Marks that do appear, fade and blend over time.
How do I maintain my countertop?
Metal countertops are very easy to maintain. Cleaning with a non-abrasive cleanser will keep your counter top clean and looking good. We recommend that you allow your metal countertop to develop its own organic patina. It will change according to use and the environment. The counter top will develop its own personality if just left alone.
What can damage the countertop?
Metal countertops cannot withstand excessive heat. Use trivets if placing any hot item on your metal countetop. Also, do not use any chlorinated products on your metal countertop as this will cause damage. Do not use abrasive cleaners.
How soon can I get my countertop?
Depending on the size of the project, we are typically 8-10 weeks out to complete your counter top or bar top. Please contact us here for additional information.