“What is the best kitchen worktop for me?”

Written By azer brown

Picking a worktop is never an easy choice, there are many factors you’ll need to take into consideration. Durability, Budget, Maintenance and its Environmental impact are just some of the key topics to research and hopefully here we will be able to shed some light for you.

Quartz

The most widely adopted choice on our list. Quartz provides many benefits as well as beautiful natural qualities that work across an array of aesthetics and provide a level of reliance that is harder to find with similar products like Marble and Granite. Let’s take a deeper dive into its properties.

·         Dimensions – 3200mm x 1600mm (This can vary depending on Material and supplier)

·         Thickness – 20, 30mm

·         Cost - ££

Pros:

Durability – Engineered from natural quartz and resins which make them incredibly hard wearing and resistant to scratches, chips and stains. Perfect for a busy household.

 

Low-Maintenance – Unlike natural stones like Granite and Marble, Quartz is non-porous. This means it doesn’t allow liquids to pass through, making it more resilient to stains and bacterial growth within the stone.

 

Variety – Due to Quartz’s manufacturing process, many colours and patterns are available. This can even include options mimicking natural stones, allowing for more flexibility with kitchens aesthetics.

 

 

Heat and stain resistance – Quartz can withstand high temperatures without being affected but it is advisable to be cautious of putting hot cookware directly onto the work surface. Regarding stains, Quartz is on the more resilient side of the spectrum. Common kitchen substances like coffee, wine and oils are fine on quartz proving they are not left to long.

Environmental impact – Although it cannot claim to be completely eco-friendly, it is still a greener option to Marble/Granite if you are looking for the natural look. This is due to an ease or sourcing, mining, transporting and manufacturing.  Quartz can be made even greener if your manufacturer of choice uses recycled materials.

 

Cons:

Budget – Despite being a cheaper alternative to natural stone it is still considered a luxury material, especially when compared to other options like laminate and wood. When you consider all the points were going to discuss in this article, I think you’ll see the pros weighed up against the cons justify the price tag.

Heat Sensitivity – Although it does provide a decent level of heat resistance, prolonged expose to extreme heats like hot pots and pans can lead to decolourisation and cracking.

Inconsistent Lead-Times – Due to the great number of choices in the market it can be hard to give concrete lead times (the time it takes for the worktop to be delivered to your address from the purchase date) this is down to the number of manufacturers, styles and when the demand out paces the supply. For less common slabs, the worktop company may not stock it locally. In that case it will have to be ordered from abroad and once it gets to the stone processing facility it will have to be fabricated before it can be delivered to you. All these factors can create unforeseen delays which you’ll need to consider especially if you’re on a tight schedule. Way to avoid any issues would be to give lots of notice to the kitchen company so they can make sure they can get it delivered for the desired date. Also pick a less uncommon slab which is locally stocked. That way you can be more flexible with lead-times.

Limited Natural Authenticity – While Quartz can mimic stone, some people prefer the unique qualities of stone, and the depth of detail created over many years of natural processes.

 

Conclusion

Overall, Quartz is a great choice of worktop, especially for those with busy households and regular cooking time. Its variety of styles and manufacturers gives you a lot of freedom with the room’s aesthetics and its natural stone look makes it an affordable alternative for Marble/Granite.

  • Dimensions - 3000mm x 1400mm (This can vary depending on the material and supplier)

  • Thickness - 20mm, 30mm

  • Cost - £££

Pros:

Aesthetic Appeal – The natural beauty of marble is quite indescribable. Layers of unique veining and colours working in unison to achieve a natural splendour that is hard to compare. This visual prowess is what’s kept Marble loved for centuries.

Naturally Unique – No two slabs are the same. Its irreplicable natural is what gives Marble its place in the pantheon of luxury.

Increased Property Price – Marble is often associated with high end design, which makes any property it resides perceived value too increases. This may be something you want to consider when discussing budget.

Durable With Care – It has long been renowned for its fragility, but Marble can be a reliable worktop for many decades providing it is cared for properly.

Classic & Versatile – Marbles ageless beauty works across an array of aesthetics from minimal to rustic. Which is why it remain a popular choice amoungest designers.

Cons:

Stains – Probably its biggest drawback is its porous property. Meaning liquids are absorbed easily leading to stains. This is especially true with more acidic and oily substances like wine, oil and coffee. These lead to stains if not removed promptly. Regularly sealing the worktop is advised to help fight against these visual impurities.

Scratching – Marble is considered a relatively soft material in comparison to Quartz and granite. This means its prone to scratches so beware of cookware and utensils directly on the work surface.

Hight Maintenance – To keep your worktop looking pristine, we recommend you reseal the stone every 6-12 months depending on the type and frequency of use. Consistent cleaning is also required to stop stains to leave your worktop looking seamless.

Cost – Marble is a famously premium product, so it should not come as a surprise that the price is very reflective of that. As well as the material on its own being expensive you’ll have a hike in price for fabrication, transportation and installation. This is due to the risk and cost factors involved for all the individual parties involved in the chain.

Cracking – Due to its fragile nature, marble can be susceptible to cracking when heavy objects make contact. Incorrect installation of the worktop can also lead to cracking during and later down the line. For the reason we recommend you use the trusted supplier/installer of your kitchen company.

Vulnerable to acidic substances – Marble can react rather badly to acidic foods and drinks along with certain cleaning agents. This will normally lead to permanent damage to the stone if not delt with promptly.

 

Conclusion

Marble can provide a level of elegance that is unrivalled in its field, but this does not come without its downsides. Before you decide on marble as your worktop of choice, think about whether you’re willing to invest the time and potentially money into maintaining the stone. If you do not, your Marble will lose much of that perceived value. If durability is more of an appealing characteristic, then maybe Quartz or Granite may be a better choice.

All this aside Marble is a truly special material, and it can really elevate a space, and this may be enough of a deciding factor for you to opt for Marble worktops.





Marble

The perfect option for homeowners and designers alike that are looking for natural beauty, elegance, classic aesthetics and don’t mind compromising on durability and cost.

  • Dimensions - 3000mm x 1400mm (This can vary depending on material and supplier)

  • Thickness - 20mm, 30mm

  • Cost - £££

Pros:

Aesthetic Appeal – The natural beauty of marble is quite indescribable. Layers of unique veining and colours working in unison to achieve a natural splendour that is hard to compare. This visual prowess is what’s kept Marble loved for centuries.

Naturally Unique – No two slabs are the same. Its irreplicable natural is what gives Marble its place in the pantheon of luxury.

Increased Property Price – Marble is often associated with high end design, which makes any property it resides perceived value too increases. This may be something you want to consider when discussing budget.

Durable With Care – It has long been renowned for its fragility, but Marble can be a reliable worktop for many decades providing it is cared for properly.

Classic & Versatile – Marbles ageless beauty works across an array of aesthetics from minimal to rustic. Which is why it remain a popular choice amoungest designers.

Cons:

Stains – Probably its biggest drawback is its porous property. Meaning liquids are absorbed easily leading to stains. This is especially true with more acidic and oily substances like wine, oil and coffee. These lead to stains if not removed promptly. Regularly sealing the worktop is advised to help fight against these visual impurities.

Scratching – Marble is considered a relatively soft material in comparison to Quartz and granite. This means its prone to scratches so beware of cookware and utensils directly on the work surface.

Hight Maintenance – To keep your worktop looking pristine, we recommend you reseal the stone every 6-12 months depending on the type and frequency of use. Consistent cleaning is also required to stop stains to leave your worktop looking seamless.

Cost – Marble is a famously premium product, so it should not come as a surprise that the price is very reflective of that. As well as the material on its own being expensive you’ll have a hike in price for fabrication, transportation and installation. This is due to the risk and cost factors involved for all the individual parties involved in the chain.

Cracking – Due to its fragile nature, marble can be susceptible to cracking when heavy objects make contact. Incorrect installation of the worktop can also lead to cracking during and later down the line. For the reason we recommend you use the trusted supplier/installer of your kitchen company.

Vulnerable to acidic substances – Marble can react rather badly to acidic foods and drinks along with certain cleaning agents. This will normally lead to permanent damage to the stone if not delt with promptly.

 

Conclusion

Marble can provide a level of elegance that is unrivalled in its field, but this does not come without its downsides. Before you decide on marble as your worktop of choice, think about whether you’re willing to invest the time and potentially money into maintaining the stone. If you do not, your Marble will lose much of that perceived value. If durability is more of an appealing characteristic, then maybe Quartz or Granite may be a better choice.

All this aside Marble is a truly special material, and it can really elevate a space, and this may be enough of a deciding factor for you to opt for Marble worktops.




Granite

A popular choice now for many decades, Granite brings that natural beauty like marble but with a little more durability. However, it is still considered a luxury item and despite it being in most cases cheaper than Marble you should think about it carefully. Here’s some of the advantages and disadvantages.

Pros:

Durability – Granite is one of the hardest stones on the market. It is resistant to scratches and heavy impacts, making it a perfect choice for families and home chiefs.

Heat resistant – Granite is naturally heat resistant. It usually fairs better against extreme temperatures than marble and Quartz.

Natural Aesthetics – Due to its natural formation, no two slabs are alike which only helps to enhance the uniqueness of a home and bring character to the space.

Variety – This material comes in many shades and colours, which is why it remained a popular choice amongst designers and customers for decades.

Increased Property Price – Although the upfront cost can be substantial, in a lot of occasions it can actually bring value to your property.  Acting only as an agent for the perception of luxury and high design.

Low maintenance – When properly sealed Granite is a relatively easy to maintain product. We suggest you re-seal every 1-5 years. If this is completed consistently then spills should be an issue of little consequence

Cons:

Budget – The cost, often considered the biggest drawback with Granite. Prices can differ depending on quality, rarity and thickness of the stone. Installation also needs to be factored in as a surcharge may be applied due to the weight.

Stains – Despite being relatively durable it is still a porous material, and it will stain without love and care. Take special notice of acidic substances like wine, juice, coffee and oil.

Maintenance – We recommend you re-seal your worktop every 1-3 years to maintain a pristine appearance.

Cracking – Although it is a very durable material it can still crack if not treated with care. Beware of dropping heavy items on corners that’s where it is most prone to cracking.

Inconsistent Appearance – Granites natural aesthetics can come with drawbacks and one of those is inconsistencies in the colour and patterning. This can become more a problem if you have a larger kitchen which requires more than one slab.

Environmental Impact – Granite can only be produced by natural processes, which means its needs to be mined which can be damaging to local eco-systems and required a lot of energy. Transport charges can be substantial also because of the weight. Coupled with marbles inability to be recycled it does not make for a very environmentally friendly option.

 

Conclusion

Granite worktops can offer a timeless aesthetic bringing a feeling of luxury that is hard to create with most other materials. Its durable properties plus lower price tag give it an edge over marble if you are looking at natural stone.

Before committing to Granite its important to access your budget, lifestyle and willingness to maintain it. If you treat it with love and care, it should bring you much joy for many years.






Laminate

Laminates are quickly becoming a popular choice of worktops. This is due to its affordable and versatile properties it can provide but this does come with some disadvantages. Let’s take a deeper dive into the pros and con’s

Pro’s

Affordability – The most appealing quality is the price tag. There aren’t many cheaper options on the market, which makes it perfect if you’re unsure about what you want and you’re not willing to break the bank over a decision you feel you will later regret.

Variety – Laminate is supplied by many manufacturers that all boast a wide variety of colours and styles allowing you to be freer with the general aesthetic of your home.  Most laminates imitate natural material like wood, stone, metal and even synthetic materials like concrete. Solid colours are also available.

Low Maintenance – Laminates are probably the lowest maintenance on our list. They do not require sealing/polishing or any special treatments. Routine cleaning with water and soap is advised.

Easy Installation – A big upside of laminate is its ease to install. The fitter that installs your kitchen will be able to provide this service which means the cost is lower and the lead times (Waiting times form supplier) are quicker.

Con’s

Lack Of Durability – The simple fact is that laminates do not provide the same level of durability that our other materials on our list provide. Laminates are prone to scratches, dents, chips.

Not Heat Resistant- Laminates provide very little protection when they come into direct contact with hot cookware which will result in a burns/wrapping. The use of heat pads and trivets are always required.

Limited Lifespan – Typically a shorter life cycle is expected with laminates. They will likely show signs of wear and tear after a few years, and this may result in you replacing them. This is something to consider when purchasing as the cost may mount up to a cost not to dissimilar to other options on our list.

Difficult To Repair – Once laminate is damaged it is very hard to repair to brand new. This is particularly true with water damage, bacterial growth.

Less Premium Appearance – While laminate worktops have come a long way in mimicking high-end materials it will not deliver the same level of premium appearance that you’ll find with natural materials.

Edges & Cuts – Depending on the board, edging can sometimes look off. Marbling or grain direction. This is something you’ll need to be aware of as its not something we can control.

 

Conclusion

Laminates offer a budget friendly, versatile and effective product that is perfect for young families/single person households. If you are looking for short term worktop solution laminate is the right move. Ultimately laminates provide a change and functional alternative from the more upmarket marble, Granite, Quartz etc






Wood

A once widely adopted kitchen worktop, wood until recently went through a period of diminishing demand. That is until the rise of eco-conscious purchases and a desire for a life lead closer to nature. Let’s get into the reasons for woods revival into the public’s imagination.

  • Dimensions - 4000mm x 1200mm (This can vary from supplier to supplier)

  • Thickness - 20mm, 40mm

  • Cost - ££

  • Suppliers - https://spekva.com/

Pros

Environmentally friendly – Wood is a renewable, sustainable material providing the wood is sourced from a certified sustainable forest. For environmentally minded people this is a perfect product for you.

Aesthetic Appeal – There is a certain homely charm to wood that is hard to find elsewhere. They can bring a level of warmth and welcomeness to a space whilst complimenting an array of styles and colours. Making it a popular choice with young first-time buyers of kitchens.

Easy To Repair – One of its greatest appeals is the ability to repair scratches, dents or stains. This can be achieved by a quicksand till the damage is no longer visible. Then you only need to apply a new layer of oil to seal and protect it.

Variety – There are many7 different types of wood to choose from all of which can be finished in a multitude of fashions. High-gloss and matt coatings. Oak and Bamboo materials, just to name a few.

Aging Gracefully – As time passes, the lives and memories shared between loved ones etches its way into the surface. Every stain, knock and imperfection is a reminder of time well spent at home with friends and family.

Cons

High maintenance – If you wish to have a seamless look than that will require regular maintenance. We recommend depending on numbers within your home and frequency of use that you oil it 1-3 years. A good way to test whether it needs re-oiling is by pouring water on the worktop. If the water forms a bead than it is sealed sufficiently. If the water sits flat on the surface than it means the wood top needs a new layer of oil.

Porosity – Wood is a porous material which means like natural stone it can absorb liquids. This can lead to warping, swelling or staining if its not properly sealed. We advise you keep the worktop dry and don’t leave liquids on the surface for long periods of time.

Scratches And Dents – Although this not an issue for many wood lovers that love the character brought by a little wear and tear. For some, this may be a turn off. Consider this carefully before making any expensive purchases.

Budget – A surprisingly expensive option, especially if you opt for a more premium wood like Walnut and Teak. Thos added to the potential maintenance cost can be enough to sway potential buyers.

Sensitive To Heat – Wood offers very little resistance to heat, that cookware should never be placed directly on the surface. Regular exposure can result in scorching (burn marks) and cracking which in some instances cannot be repaired.

Bacterial Growth – Due to its porosity wood can harbour bacteria if it is not sealed and cleaned regularly. Although most woods like Oak and Bamboo have natural antibacterial properties.

 

Conclusion

A Wooden worktop is a perfect fit for someone looking to bring a little warmth and natural beauty into their home whilst accommodating any eco-friendly inclinations they might have. However, it will require more work than most worktops so its worth thinking it over. If you’re willing to invest the time into maintenance, it can be a great addition to your kitchen.





Stainless Steel

Stainless Steel has long been a favourite in professional kitchens with its sleek industrial look and high durability. Let’s explore its strengths and weaknesses.

  • Dimensions - 4200mm x 1250mm (This can very depending on material and supplier)

  • Thickness - 20 - >

  • Cost - £££

  • Suppliers - https://www.barazzasrl.it/en/

Pros

Durability – Widley regarded as the most durable worktop material. It offers a great level of resistance to corrosion, cracking and stains. Making Stainless Steel an ideal choice for homes of cooks.

Hygienic – With it being a non-porous material it does not absorb moisture, bacteria or odours, making it an incredibly hygienic surface. It is also a very easy material to clean, so bacteria and contaminants don’t linger.

Heat & Stain Resistant – Stainless Steel is extremely heat resistant. Hot cookware can be placed directly on to the work surface with zero scorching (burns) or cracking. Additionally, it makes light of any liquids like wine and coffee.

Modern Industrial – Modern contemporary and industrial spaces all work beautifully with Stainless Steels sleek and clinical feel. Its reflective properties can also make a space feel bigger and brighter.

Environmentally Friendly – Stainless Steel can be 100% recycled after use. Globally Stainless Steel is made up of 50% recycled scrap and 50% raw materials. Meaning there is less need for sourcing, production and transporting resulting in less fuel consumption. Another benefit is that it breaks down at the end of its lifecycle and doesn’t cause any harm to the environment.

Seamless Integration – We have suppliers that will fabricate your worktop with the appliances (sink, hob etc) seamlessly integrated. This creates a continuous worksurface and eliminates joint and the use of silicone.  All of which build up grime and bacteria. This will make your kitchen look sleek and more hygienic.

 

Cons

Scratches & Dents – Despite it being durable it is susceptible to scratching and denting. This will take away that polished reflective finish and result in a more worn-in, industrial look which some find undesirable.

Clinical Feel – Whilse some find this appealing; others may find it cold and clinical. The material doesn’t provide the warmth that wood does or the natural depth of detail that natural stone has. Its important to take into consideration the space and style of your property before making your decision.

Noisy – Weve all experienced the loud clattering of pots and pan on our favourite cook show/Drama which is fine when confined to the parameters of a screen and volume control. Its very different when it is the confinements of your own home, especially in an already busy household.

Fingerprints & Smudges – Due to its reflective properties fingerprints and smudges do tent to show which can of course be wiped clean but this repetitive cleaning can become an irritation.

Budget – Stainless Steel can be expensive and features like appliance integration can rack the price up even higher Normally they are considered a long-term investment as its unlikely that you will have to replace or repair them.

 

Discolouration – Although it’s unlikely if treated with the correct care discolouration can take place. This happens when exposed to extreme heat and harsh chemicals for prolonged periods of time. Apart from looking visually unpleasing it will not affect the general performance of the worktop.

 

Conclusion

Stainless Steel offers many desirable qualities, especially for those that love cooking and want an industrial feel to their property. The environmental benefits are also hard to ignore which is why Stainless Steel is quickly becoming a popular choice in today’s market.

If you are driven to Stainless Steel for its flawless clinical look than you have to be aware that although it is incredibly durable it is prone to scratches, dents and fingerprints

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