Countertops and worktops for kitchens – Materials buying guide
The countertop or worktop is not only necessary for a kitchen, it is also an integral part of its design. Food preparation can put a lot of wear and tear on kitchen surfaces. In this article, we take a look at the various materials used for countertops and discuss the reasons for choosing them for your kitchen. Whether its durability, hygiene, or cost, you can find the pros and cons of each material below.
Laminate Countertops
This expensive option is a very popular option for kitchen countertops and comes in a variety of colors and textures. It is not that durable and can get scratched or burned, and it gets dirty very easily. It’s not made to last. If you choose laminate, you can protect your surfaces with trivets and cutting boards.
Advantage
Quite cheap.
A wide range of colors and patterns to choose from.
Elegant borders easy to apply.
Stain resistant.
Disadvantages
It is not advisable to use it as a cutting surface or to place hot pans.
It cannot be repaired if damaged. It must be replaced.
Noticeable stitching due to a dark backing sheet. This is more evident with light colors.
granite countertops
Granite is the most common type of stone used for a countertop. Granite is quarried all over the world, with colors and patterns that reveal the region and the geological conditions that created it. Each slab is unique, with random and inconsistent patterns for great character and appearance. It is very resistant, does not scratch or burn and maintains its color. Unfortunately, granite is a very expensive material, although the finished look is often worth it.
Advantage
A variety of colors of natural stone.
Extremely durable.
Heat resistant and hard to scratch.
Disadvantages
Expensive
To prevent staining, it will need to be resealed.
stainless steel countertops
Often associated with professional kitchens, stainless steel is sleek and contemporary. Steel is very durable and can be shaped in many ways to suit your kitchen. The backsplash and sink can be made from the same piece of steel, ensuring there are no awkward corners or gaps for food to get lost in. Stainless steel is hygienic and is the only surface that can be safely bleached.
Advantage
The only surface that can be safely whitened.
Corrosion proof.
Very durable.
Sinks, drain boards, and backsplashes can be made into the countertop.
heat-resistant
All joints can be polished to a uniform effect (may cost extra).
Disadvantages
It can scratch and dent (although newer designs may include textured finishes that can hide scratches).
It has a high maintenance option.
Expensive.
Wood and Butcher Block Countertops
Wood will always give you a great look and add character to your kitchen. On the counter, however, it is very susceptible to scratches and cuts. Hot pans will burn or mark it, and it can be unsanitary if meat or poultry is cooked on top. However, it is one of the only surfaces that will not damage your knives. Oak, maple, cherry, red beech, hickory, teak, and mahogany are all preferred hardwoods for countertop applications.
Advantage
Ideal for cutting.
Unique surface that will not damage your knives.
Very attractive.
Disadvantages
Deep cuts will show through, but can be sanded.
Hot pans will burn or leave marks.
High maintenance. Use mineral oil to renew the surface.
Quartz Surfaces: Zodiaq, Cambria and Silestone Countertops
Quartz adds a great natural look to any kitchen. It is very durable being resistant to scratches, stains and heat. However, this flexibility comes at a price and you can sometimes find prices up to 10% higher than granite. Quartz surfaces are hygienic because the material is non-porous and therefore bacteria and mold have nowhere to hide. Three brands to consider are Zodiaq, Cambria and Silestone. Zodiaq comes in 26 colors and is guaranteed for 10 years. Cambria is made in the USA and is available in 34 colors, all at the same price. Silestone is manufactured by the Spanish company Consentino and is available in 46 colours.
Advantage
Scratch resistant.
Stain resistant.
Heat-resistant.
Looks great.
No need to reseal every few years (unlike granite).
Disadvantages
Expensive (about 10% more than granite).
Only on dashboards.
Corian, Avonite and other solid surface countertops
A countertop that consists of a solid plastic throughout is said to be a solid surface countertop (as opposed to those built in layers, i.e. laminates). They are similar to quartz in that they are also resistant. They are scratch, scorch and heat resistant. If you manage to damage the countertop, you can easily repair it. You can expect to spend about three times what you would on laminate and twice as much on wood. There is a wide range of colors and styles available to choose from and most suppliers will give you a good guarantee.
Corian is the most famous brand (it has been around for 30 years) Avonite has unique color options.
Advantage
Wide variety of colors and border styles.
You can create your own design on the cover.
Splash guards can be any height and cover up to the deck for a very clean look.
The seams are practically invisible.
The material is renewable and repairable.
Most brands offer a full, transferable 10-year warranty.
Disadvantages
The cost is high when all available options are used.