Why No Surface Alternatives Except Formica?

[Escape Plan]

Hello Escapers!


With all of the variations in surface prep materials available today, I am surprised (and a little disappointed) that ETI doesn't offer the option to put in hard-surface prep surfaces, such as Corian, Quartz and similiar. Does anyone share this same feeling? I know it would add more cost to install, but it would be nice to have the option to upgrade to that if someone wanted it.


Let me know what your thoughts are.


James

[davidmurphy02]

With smaller trailers like the Escape many owners are watching the weight very carefully, I've seen a number of people go with a 19 over a 21 to stay within the limits of their tow vehicle. those thick solid counter surfaces are a good big heavier than formica over plywood, that may be one reason they are not offered. With formica, the dinette table and any pop-up counter extensions match the kitchen counters, with other surfaces for the counters that might not be practical.

However, try finding another small trailer manufacturer that will install ANY formica pattern available!

[Chotch]

Originally Posted by davidmurphy02

With smaller trailers like the Escape many owners are watching the weight very carefully, I've seen a number of people go with a 19 over a 21 to stay within the limits of their tow vehicle. those thick solid counter surfaces are a good big heavier than formica over plywood, that may be one reason they are not offered. With formica, the dinette table and any pop-up counter extensions match the kitchen counters, with other surfaces for the counters that might not be practical.

However, try finding another small trailer manufacturer that will install ANY formica pattern available!

Think you nailed it here with the weight issue. But if anyone wanted to upgrade it wouldn’t be a difficult job.

[TTMartin]

Originally Posted by davidmurphy02

With smaller trailers like the Escape many owners are watching the weight very carefully, I've seen a number of people go with a 19 over a 21 to stay within the limits of their tow vehicle. those thick solid counter surfaces are a good big heavier than formica over plywood, that may be one reason they are not offered. With formica, the dinette table and any pop-up counter extensions match the kitchen counters, with other surfaces for the counters that might not be practical.

However, try finding another small trailer manufacturer that will install ANY formica pattern available!

Plus it is a different material, with different constructions skills required to install it.

I'm amazed at the amount of customization Escape already offers. You can get the stock kitchen cabinets with 2 burner cooktop, or you can get a 3 burner cook top with oven, or you can get a 2 burner cooktop, with microwave or a microwave ready cabinet under the cooktop, or you can get the 2 burner cooktop with a convection microwave ready cabinet under it.

The thing all those have in common are they are all the same materials and type of construction.

However, if you want a hard surface counter top, literally you can go to Lowes, they will take some measurements and their installers will install it.

[Ron in BC]

Originally Posted by Chotch

Think you nailed it here with the weight issue. But if anyone wanted to upgrade it wouldn’t be a difficult job.

In the overall scheme of things the weight wouldn't be significant or the deal killer.

But again, ETI is a relatively small company producing a product in a manner that is sustainable and profitable for them. They offer more choices in some things than others do. But at the end of the day they have to have an efficient assembly line. They are not one off custom builders.

Surprised and disappointed? Would you also say that if they wouldn't let you choose a custom gel coat color?

Ron

[Iowa Dave]

I guess if I wanted something different I’d build it myself and install it. Did that on a table, under bed storage on both the 19 and 21, front box arrangement etc. Total custom appointments cost money because they take additional labor, non inventory components and still risk not being “perfect” in the customers eyes. We’re very happy with the stock flooring, fabric and “Formica”. Personalization is via pictures on the walls, pillows and bedding and a few Knick knacks. We try to keep things simple.
Iowa Dave

[Eggscape]

I guess if your living in the trailer every day you could have someone cut and install the counter of your choice. Just like people do if they don’t like their counters in there home.
You can always check out the new Northern Lite fiberglass trailer or Oliver and pay twice as much.

[emers382]

We had one of only two Escapes in which Reace installed a stainless steel backsplash. After messing one up he said he'd never do it again.

[TTMartin]

Originally Posted by emers382

We had one of only two Escapes in which Reace installed a stainless steel backsplash. After messing one up he said he'd never do it again.

Reese isn't doing it, but, Escape is. It is now available as an option. I'm getting the stainless steel backsplash installed in my Escape 19.

[Escape Plan]

Originally Posted by davidmurphy02

With smaller trailers like the Escape many owners are watching the weight very carefully, I've seen a number of people go with a 19 over a 21 to stay within the limits of their tow vehicle. those thick solid counter surfaces are a good big heavier than formica over plywood, that may be one reason they are not offered. With formica, the dinette table and any pop-up counter extensions match the kitchen counters, with other surfaces for the counters that might not be practical.

However, try finding another small trailer manufacturer that will install ANY formica pattern available!

David, I realize that weight is a major factor in purchasing a fiberglass trailer, as well as the fact that ETI's operational constraints may not allow them to install such materials. All understandable choices. Like others have mentioned, I suppose I could always have it done later by a company specializing in counter fabrication if I wanted to update the look of the trailer.


James