Different Benchtop Choices for Your Modern Kitchen

Novmember 7, 2016

Many designers agree, one of the most significant features of a kitchen is the benchtop. For one, it needs to be durable and hold up to daily use. As well, it is imperative that the benchtop be attractive and stylish. For instance, when you are selling your home, a potential buyers generally always looks at is the quality of the kitchen. This includes how well the appliances meld with the benchtops to create a fabulous look.

Even if your home is not on the realtors market, choosing the right benchtop is important. After all, you want the ideal benchtop that matches your individual taste and lifestyle. However, when trying to decide on the perfect benchtop for your kitchen, there can be many variables that can make selecting a bit difficult. But, a few tips and tricks will make it much easier to decide.

Laminate

Laminate is a layer of plastic that is fused together. It comes in a variety of colours, finishes and designs. It is a popular choice that features cost effective solutions due to its durability and low cost. Although maintenance is minimal, avoid placing hot items on the benchtop. Once the counter is damaged, it is extremely difficult to repair.

Acrylic

This material for countertops is a blend of acrylic and natural materials. Known for its versatility in design and nonporous features that helps prevent the growth of bacteria, acrylic benchtops are a popular choice. Although not as hard as stone, acrylic benchtops are quite durable. However, they can scrape, scratch and dent. But unlike laminate, they are fairly easy to repair.

Granite

Granite is an igneous rock shaped from magma. It is very durable and comes in numerous colours and unique designs. In fact, each benchtop slab has its own uniqueness and is unlike the next. As well, the colours range from light to dark with many variable hues.

Granite is also less porous than marble, which makes it ideal for the kitchen. For extra resiliency, it is best to reseal it regularly. As well, since colours greatly vary, select the slabs you like prior to installation.

Marble

One cannot get more elegant than having a marble benchtop in the kitchen. It offers a premium look and feel with superb resilience if taken care of. In fact, a well maintained marble countertop can last up to 20 years. Although marble has a higher price tag, the benefits are far worth the price. For instance, aside from its beauty and toughness, marble is highly resistant to scratches and cracks. The striking material also has heat resistant qualities plus it will not catch fire.

Tile

Many designers love tile countertops because they are extremely creative. Plus they offer unique designs that are both cost effective and durable. Tile benchtops are often found in country-style designs and contemporary style kitchens. And for long lasting wear, make sure that epoxy grout is used during installation. Standard grouts are typically more porous and not as hardwearing.

Timber

Timber countertops in the kitchen have been a favorite for many centuries. They offer a natural and warn feeling to the home. As well, there are numerous types of wood with different tones, grains and hardness. Timber benchtops also require some maintenance such as a sealant or wood oil.

Stone

A stone benchtop like quartz or engineered stone is composed of around 95% crushed or powdered stone and 5% binding agent like acrylic polyester resin. Stone countertops are very durable and can also withstand high temperatures. Stone is also less porous than marble and granite. Since the stone slabs are basically man-made, there are a variety of uniform patterns and colours to choose from.

Stainless Steel

In honesty, many professional chefs prefer stainless steel benchtops. It is also a popular choice with home cooks due to its contemporary look and easy to clean features. As well, stainless steel can withstand high temperatures. However, the high sheen material is easily scratched. But there are cleaning products that contain special textures that can actually hide the scratches.

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