Solid Surface Countertops: What Terra Sol Includes
In this article
Solid surface countertops are man-made counters formed from acrylic or polyester resin mixed with mineral filler. They look like one smooth, even surface, with seams that are hard to see, and small scratches can often be buffed out. At Terra Sol, Lennar's townhome community in Homestead, Lennar's published feature list includes solid surface kitchen countertops with a 6-inch backsplash, and cultured marble countertops in the bathrooms.
This guide explains what solid surface is, how it compares with granite and quartz, how to care for it, and everything else on Terra Sol's published feature list.
What solid surface is
Solid surface is made, not mined. Makers blend resin with fine mineral powder and color, then form it into sheets. Installers cut the sheets, join them with adhesive that matches the color, and sand the joints smooth.
Because the color and pattern run all the way through the material, a light scratch can often be sanded or buffed away. That is the biggest difference between solid surface and a counter with only a thin top layer, like laminate.
You may know solid surface by a brand name. Corian is the best-known one, but many companies make it.
The good and the not-so-good
What buyers like:
Smooth look. Seams are hard to spot, so the counter looks like one piece.
Non-porous. Liquids do not soak in, which makes everyday cleanup easy.
Repairable. Light scratches and dull spots can often be buffed out.
Warm to the touch. It does not feel cold like stone.
Soft edges. It can be shaped with rounded edges.
What to watch for:
Heat. A hot pan set right on the counter can damage it. Always use a trivet.
Scratches. It scratches more easily than granite or quartz. Use a cutting board.
Look. Some buyers prefer the depth and pattern of natural stone.
Solid surface vs. granite vs. quartz
Solid surface | Granite | Quartz | |
|---|---|---|---|
What it is | Resin and mineral filler | Natural stone | Engineered stone, mostly crushed quartz |
Seams | Hard to see | Visible | Visible but tight |
Heat | Use a trivet every time | Handles heat better | Use a trivet |
Scratches | Scratches, but often repairable | Very hard | Very hard |
Sealing | No | Usually yes | No |
Feel | Warm, smooth | Cool, natural | Cool, even |
None of these is ""best."" It depends on how you cook and how you like a kitchen to look. At Terra Sol, Lennar's list names solid surface. If you want a different counter, ask what upgrades exist and what they cost.
Cultured marble in the bathrooms
Lennar's list for Terra Sol includes cultured marble countertops with built-in sinks and designer faucets in all baths.
Cultured marble is another made surface. It is usually crushed stone mixed with resin, poured into a mold and topped with a clear protective coat. Because the sink and the counter are one molded piece, there is no seam for grime to collect in.
Caring for cultured marble: Use a soft cloth and a gentle, non-scratch cleaner. Skip scouring powders and rough pads, which can dull the top coat.
How to care for solid surface
Wipe daily with warm water and a mild dish soap.
Use a trivet for anything hot from the stove or oven.
Use a cutting board. Never cut directly on the counter.
Buff light marks with a soft, non-scratch pad.
Ask before using strong chemicals. Some harsh cleaners can damage the surface.
Keep the care guide that comes with your home. Follow it first.
Everything else on Terra Sol's published list
Lennar sells Terra Sol under its ""Everything's Included"" program. Here is its published list for these homes, grouped the way Lennar groups it. Your purchase agreement is the final word.
Outside
A 20 ft by 4 ft balcony with an aluminum railing off the owner's suite
Front elevations with stone accents, stucco details and decorative brackets
Brick pavers on the driveway, walkway, entry and patio
A concrete roof tile
Impact-resistant glass windows, front door and sliding doors
Kitchen
Cabinets with 36-inch uppers and brushed nickel hardware
A pantry closet with ventilated shelves
Solid surface countertops with a 6-inch backsplash
A stainless steel sink with a decorative faucet and sprayer
A food waste disposal, a USB charger outlet and recessed lighting
Bathrooms
Cultured marble countertops with built-in sinks in all baths
A glass shower enclosure in the en-suite bath
A bathtub in the secondary bath
12-inch by 12-inch ceramic tile on bathroom floors and shower walls
A pedestal sink in the first-floor powder room and mirrors in all baths
Inside
18-inch by 18-inch ceramic tile in the foyer, kitchen, laundry and A/C closet, plus tile in all living areas
Stain-resistant carpet with padding in designated areas
A coffered ceiling in the owner's suite. Our coffered ceiling guide explains it.
Marble window sills, raised-panel doors and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Central air conditioning and heating and an electric water heater
Cat6 wiring in the kitchen, family room and owner's bedroom, and ceiling fan pre-wiring per plan
Connected home
A Ring doorbell, a Wi-Fi thermostat and a central media panel
What is not on the published list
Lennar's published Terra Sol list does not name kitchen appliances or a washer and dryer. That is a real difference from some nearby communities. Lennar's Aria Park, for example, lists both.
Do not assume either way. Ask the sales team exactly what appliances come with the home you pick, and make sure the purchase agreement says so.
The warranty
Lennar offers what it calls a 1-2-10 limited warranty. That means one year of coverage for workmanship, two years for the electrical, plumbing and mechanical systems, and ten years for structural parts like the load-bearing elements. Ask for the written warranty before you sign, and read what it covers and excludes.
Where to see it
All four Terra Sol plans share this list. See how the plans differ in our Terra Sol floor plans guide and in Carnation vs. Iris. Planning weekend trips once you move? Our guide to driving from Homestead to Key West covers the roads.
Common Questions
What are solid surface countertops?
They are man-made counters formed from acrylic or polyester resin and mineral filler. The color runs all the way through, seams are hard to see, and light scratches can often be buffed out.
Is solid surface better than granite?
Neither is better for everyone. Solid surface is seamless, non-porous and repairable. Granite is harder and handles heat better. It depends on how you cook and the look you want.
Can you put hot pans on solid surface?
No. High heat can damage it. Always use a trivet or a hot pad for pots and pans straight from the stove or oven.
What countertops come in Terra Sol homes?
Lennar's published list includes solid surface countertops with a 6-inch backsplash in the kitchen and cultured marble countertops with built-in sinks in all baths. Confirm the finishes for your home in the purchase agreement.
Do Terra Sol homes include appliances?
Lennar's published Terra Sol list does not name kitchen appliances or a washer and dryer. Ask the sales team exactly what comes with your home and make sure the purchase agreement lists it.
What warranty does Lennar offer?
Lennar describes a 1-2-10 limited warranty: one year for workmanship, two years for electrical, plumbing and mechanical systems, and ten years for structural parts. Ask for the written warranty before you sign.
Want to see the finishes in person? Call 561-704-0091 or See the Terra Sol Finishes — Schedule a Visit.
Related reading: Terra Sol Floor Plans Compared, Coffered Ceiling Guide, Carnation vs. Iris at Terra Sol, Homestead to Key West, and the Terra Sol community page."