It instantly draws the eye to any kitchen. It takes a beating on occasion and has to withstand spills and splashes. The trusty benchtop is a necessity for any functional kitchen. A well-designed room can be tied together with a bold benchtop and a bad one can bring a room down. When it comes to picking the right one for your space, the number of options can seem overwhelming. There is the material to consider, the color or finish, and the thickness. Learn more about the benefits of popular benchtop materials below.
Laminate
Although it has a negative reputation by many, laminate kitchen benchtops remain popular and widespread for a reason. They are the most affordable option and the most widely available. For those who are trying to stick to a tight budget, laminate benchtops are a great way to save. You can find the largest variety of colors and designs to match any kitchen. The downside to laminate is the susceptibility to damage from heat and scratches, which are difficult to repair. It is the best choice for its easy maintenance and low price tag.
Timber
Bring some warmth and interest to your kitchen with bold timber benchtops. This material is not only natural but also very durable over time. It is light and thus does not need as much support as other options. The cons of timber is that like all wood, moisture is its enemy, which is abundant in kitchens. Therefore, it needs to be sealed and resealed frequently. Although it will not crack or chip like stone, timber is prone to stains and scratches. For the natural and long-lasting choice, this might be your choice.
Quartz
This engineered product is a mix of crushed stone and binders. Unlike natural stone, it is non-porous, making it more durable and resistant to stains and bacteria. Quartz stands up to dents, dings, heat, and more, so you can count on it to last. It mimics the look of stone like granite and marble, plus there are many different designs and colors to choose from. The price is one of the negatives, but it is less expensive than natural stone.
Granite
The benchtop that was on everyone’s kitchen wish list for years. Granite withstands heat and pressure, and its unique look is attractive in most kitchens. Cleaning is easy; you don’t need to worry about accidentally scratching it with knives or dropping anything. It is heavy and expensive, so you want to be sure it is something you definitely want in your kitchen before committing to it.
Concrete
Concrete benchtops are interesting and durable, perfect for industrial or edgy kitchens. They last for years, resist heat and scratches, and are fairly easy to maintain. Concrete is extremely heavy, so you need very strong cabinets to hold the weight. It can also crack and need to be resealed to prevent staining. Although the material is inexpensive, the installation can be labor-intensive and costly.
Whenever shopping for anything for a renovation, always be sure to do your research beforehand. Your kitchen benchtop should last for years to come, so don’t skimp out on the cheapest option. With all the available choices right now, you will surely find one that fits your budget and lifestyle.
