Introduction
Selecting the kitchen worktops can be challenging, but it is crucial at the time of designing or remodelling a kitchen. Worktops can affect aesthetics of the kitchen and also provide a working surface in food preparation. A material that has been thoughtfully and strategically chosen can add value to a kitchen’s design and ensure maximum effectiveness and durability.
With such an abundance of types of kitchen worktops, narrowing it down from all the available options to the one that best suits your needs can be a challenging task. Maintenance, style, cost, and durability are some of the many important factors influencing decision making. In this guide, you will learn about the popular materials along with their benefits and drawbacks, which will assist you in making the best decision.
1. Granite Worktops
Overview
Elegance and beauty guided the design of sofas, chairs, and tables, and granite work surfaces from the heart of sophisticated kitchen decor. The stone has so much elasticity in use and consistent heating, which gives ease in scrubbing oil stains from the surface. The aplomb vanity also has the attribute of glue bonds of quartz and granite natural stone surfaces edges.
Pros of Granite Worktops
Granite, unlike other materials, withstands a lot of force and remains intact much longer, retaining its shape even under extreme heat, scratches, and wear and tear. This makes the lifespan of the material ideal for busy kitchens where frequent cooking takes place.
Granite’s unmatched beauty boasts a natural appeal that complements the modern feel of sophisticated kitchens.
- Scratch-resistant: Tough enough for daily kitchen activities.
- Adds value to the home: Enhances property value with premium material.
Cons of Granite Worktops
Its durability comes with a price. Granite countertops are not immune to damage, and without proper care over time, moisture can make them stained.
- Requires sealing: Over time, sealing prevents stain absorption.
- Heavy and difficult to install: Should only be done by someone with experience.
- Higher cost: Price is above average compared to some other materials.
Maintenance Tips
Granite requires daily cleaning with soap and water, and other acidic cleaners can damage the granite seal. Water can harm the granite if there is no approved surface seal, which will need to be replaced every one to two years.
Cost
Price will vary depending on the quality and the source of the stone, but expect to pay anywhere between £550 – £1,150 per worktop.
2. Quartz Worktops
Overview
Quartz transforms natural stone designs by adding resins to make highly durable and non-porous surfaces, making them scratch resistant and easy to clean. Unlike natural stones, quartz can be fabricated into large blocks which can be transformed into different kinds of finishes and therefore have an even wider range of colours and designs available.
Quartz Worktops Pros
Homeowners looking for a fashionable, low-maintenance stone will find quartz worktops surfaces ideal. Stains cannot penetrate its surfaces and it does not require any sealing making it one of the easiest surfaces to maintain.
- Non-porous and stain-resistant: Does not soak in liquids or bacteria.
- Highly durable: Scratch-resistant and can withstand the test of time.
- Wide variety of designs: Multiple colors and styles are available for selection.
Cons
Although quartz is very durable, it is less resistant to heat than granite. Care needs to be taken when placing hot cookware on quartz as direct exposure to extreme temperatures can damage the surface.
- Not heat resistant: Can be damaged by high temperatures.
- Heavy material: Professional installation is required.
- More expensive than some alternatives: Costs more than laminate surfaces and some wood ones.
Maintenance Tips
Maintaining quartz surfaces is easy; simply clean with mild detergent and a damp cloth. Severe chemicals and prolonged heat exposure should be avoided.
Cost
Prices of quartz worktops usually vary from £500 – £1,100 per worktop.
3. Hardwood Worktops
Overview
The kitchen is instantly warmed by hardwood worktops which bestow their natural beauty to the kitchen.
The surfaces that are composed of oak, walnut, and beech develop a rustic beauty over the years due to the patina formed, which makes wood an alluring material.
Pros of Hardwood Worktops
The ability to be sanded and refinished repeatedly is an advantage that greatly supports the longevity of wooden worktops. These worktops give a unique look to both contemporary and traditional kitchens.
- Can be refinished: Can be sanded to get rid of scratches and stains.
- Adds warmth and charm: A synthetic appearance makes the kitchen look even more appealing.
- Sustainable option: Can be considered eco-friendly when sourced responsibly.
Cons of Hardwood Worktops
In order to have wooden worktops, one needs to keep them in good shape. Poor maintenance can lead the wood to absorb water, leading to cracks and warping.
- Requires regular maintenance: Should be sealed and oiled regularly to avoid moisture damage.
- Prone to scratches and stains: Are less durable when compared to stone surfaces.
- Not ideal for wet areas: Marked by water damage.
Maintenance Tips
A few months of protective oil coating helps to ensure good condition. Spills, in combination with longer absorption periods, need to be wiped up instantly.
Cost
Depending on the type of wood, each worktop comes at an estimated cost of £100 – £1,200.
4. Laminate Worktops
Overview
Laminate worktops are the most economical option among kitchen surfaces. These surfaces are created using a synthetic material that is layered over a particle board and comes in numerous colours and patterns, many resembling the appearance of wood or natural stones.
Pros of Laminate Worktops
Lowe’s, Walmart, and Home Depot offer laminates that are relatively cheap and require very little upkeep, which makes them very flexible in design. Laminate’s lightweight properties automated the installation process, making these surfaces the most ideal for DIY projects.
- Budget-friendly: One of the most affordable worktop options.
- Variety of designs: Can imitate premium materials at a lower cost.
- Easy to maintain: Does not require sealing or special treatment.
Cons of Laminate Worktops
However, the primary issue with these surfaces is that, despite being cost effective, laminate lacks the durability that natural wood and granite provide, rendering it highly susceptible to scratches and damage from overexposure to heat and steam.
- Less durable: Prone to chipping, peeling, and scratching.
- Not heat-resistant: Hot cookware can cause permanent damage.
- Vulnerable to moisture: Excessive exposure to water can cause swelling.
Maintenance Tips
Clearing the surface with a soft cloth and a mild detergent is recommended. Do not directly cut on the surface to avoid scratching it.
Cost
Each laminate worktop comes at a cost of £200-800.
Conclusion
Selecting a suitable worktop is influenced by one’s budget, desired maintenance level, and an individual’s notion of kitchen aesthetics. Though granite delivers luxury and durability, quartz serves as a modern day low-maintenance alternative. While hardwood provides warmth and is refinishable, laminate is definitely the least expensive option.
For those looking for quality types of kitchen worktops, be sure to check out Imperial Worktops. They offer the finest materials and the best workmanship available. From durable granite surfaces to stylish quartz finishes and even cost-effective laminate options, Imperial Worktops has designs to suit every kitchen.
FAQs About Types of Kitchen Worktops
1. Which type of kitchen worktop is most durable?
Both quartz and granite are extremely durable materials. They won’t scratch, stain, or get damaged easily.
2. What is the best budget friendly kitchen worktop?
Laminate is by far the cheapest option and offers a lot in stylish finishes for a fraction of the price.
3. Is quartz better than granite?
Granite has a natural look and is more heat resistant but quartz is more attractive in the sense that it requires little to no maintenance and is non-porous. In the end, it all depends on one’s preferences.
4. Are wooden worktops hard to maintain?
Indeed, they need to be regularly sealed and oiled to avoid water damage.
That said, they can be refinished as many times as necessary, improving their longevity.
5. What is the best modern kitchen worktop?
Sleek quartz countertops, as well as composite materials such as Corian, are perfect for modern kitchens.
6. Can I install a kitchen worktop myself?
Both laminate and wood worktops are within the capabilities of most DIYer’s skill set, but the weight and cutting intricacies of quartz and granite make professional fitting a necessity.
