Great feedback, thank you. shaggydogs- I'm not sure about that 1.5" thick issue. I know they released their new "SEKTION" kitchen line and that's what I ordered. I noticed during my online building process that the sink base cabinets are now different compared to the old AKURUM models. Maybe they have some adjustments built into the new base cabinets for this difference? I'll place a call to IKEA and find out. milworkman - As for the particle board issue, most laminates are bonded to particle board and when treated well they survive quite awhile. My grandmother has a laminate countertop that's 20 years old and still going strong. But, you're right about the 45 cuts, it's pretty much impossible to do that and keep it sealed. I could just join them together without 45's, but they have beveled edges and I've never been a fan of joining two perpendicular bevels together like that. It just collects debris and bacteria as well as looking "half assed" in terms of build quality in my opinion. So, it seems I may have to give in and return these tops when some solid oak slabs become available ( available stock on these tops in Ottawa Ontario is rarer than a unicorn some years!).

There are all brands of engineered stone. The big manufacturers want you to believe they are somehow different. They aren't substantially; it's all the same stuff.

Did you end up using Lapitec? If so, how has it held up?

Following this. I got a sample of Helena yesterday and think it might be perfect. Looks a little like Taj Mahal. Also, it looks like Home Depot carries it, which would probably be a less expensive route.