When you are designing your dream kitchen, you may focus more on the cabinetry but your choice of worktop is equally as big of a style decision. In addition to looking good, the kitchen worktop needs to equally need to be fit to withstand the elements of everyday life – from heat damage to food stains your kitchen worktop needs to be able to stand the test of time.
Over the last few years, worktop materials have changed radically and nowadays there is a wide range of options for all different kinds of budgets. Technology has significantly advanced and as a result, we now have the ability to create worktops out of super-tough materials that are almost indestructible and are ideal for busy home environments. With open-plan kitchen living room layouts rising in popularity in recent years, this has led to the introduction of luxe statement worktops that are visually pleasing to the eye as well as being tough and durable.
Aside from the functional aspect, your budget will also come into play when choosing the best kitchen worktop for your home. With so many options available, it can sometimes feel daunting trying to find the right worktop for your house. Luckily for you, here at Shaw Stone, we are here to help you find the perfect fit.
In terms of popularity, laminate, marble, granite, solid wood, quartz, and composite stone kitchen worktops are obvious choices. It is important to look at all of the pros and cons involved with each material to ensure that your kitchen worktop is ideally suited to your specific needs. The best worktop is one that is practical, functional and will complement the overall look and theme of your kitchen.
When choosing which kitchen worktop is best suited to your home it is important to ask yourself a few key questions first such as:
Granite is a great material for a kitchen worktop due to its high resistance to chipping and scratching. Each piece of granite is completely unique due to its nature and comes in a wide range of beautiful colours. If you often put pots and pans onto the kitchen worktop then this is a great option for you as it is heat, stain, and moisture resistant. The main downsides to granite worktops are that they can’t be repaired if they get damaged and they are also rather heavy and require full support from cabinets.
If you are looking for a visually appealing but highly practical worktop option, then quartz is the material for you. Its antibacterial properties make it an ultra-hygienic option, as well as being highly durable. The material is also naturally scratch-resistant so perfectly suited to busy homes. Quartz is made from natural quartz stone that is mixed with pigments, polymers, and resins which work together to bond the slab. Quartz can not handle hot pots and pans being placed on it and they can be quite costly compared to other options.
If you aren’t already aware, the sintered stone is a manufactured product made from a base of natural stone that is formed into incredibly strong and durable slabs, this process is called sintering. Sintered stone worktops are stain, scratch, and waterproof as well as being easy to clean and maintain. They come in a wide range of colours and are a great option to consider, however can be an expensive option.
We recommend taking your time when choosing the best kitchen worktop for your home, not only is it an investment but it can dramatically change your kitchen aesthetic and increase the value of your home. Here at Shaw Stone, we’re on hand to talk you through the pros and cons of each option to ensure you are able to get the kitchen of your dreams. Get in touch today to discuss our different kitchen worktop options.