Kitchen Worktop: Professional Tips

Choosing a new countertop is not an easy task: after all, it must not only be combined with other elements of the interior, but also be a practical and convenient working area. In addition, the purchase of countertops is a rather costly venture, starting with the fact that the materials themselves, suitable for its manufacture - able to withstand high temperatures and daily use - cost quite a lot.

When purchasing a new kitchen worktop, you should consider your financial capabilities and lifestyle. Today the choice of work surfaces is huge - these are traditional models of layered plastic and stone, and a new generation of products made from environmentally friendly materials.

Natural and artificial stone

Beautiful and durable, back in 2001 granite countertops accounted for approximately 15% of all purchased, but by 2010 this figure had grown to 48%. Stone classics can be very expensive for you, especially for tiles with decorative edges. An alternative is an artificial stone, which is a combination of crushed quartz and resin.

It is a dirt-resistant material with a speckled surface that hides fingerprints and small spots well. Artificial stone is cheaper than natural and is suitable for those who want to save.

Laminates and Solid Surface

A tabletop made of high pressure plastic is one of the best solutions for the kitchen. Such models are available in a wide range of colors, with a variety of textures and finishes, including “wood-like” or “stone”. Rounded edges (or any other creative design) will give the plastic tabletop a more decorative look. The material can last for many years with proper care, it is easy to clean, however, the surface of the countertop is made of laminated plastic cannot be restored, so be careful when using sharp knives and high temperatures. Another version of the plastic countertops belongs to the Solid Surface class, which appeared on the market more than 30 years ago. This material consists of polyester or acrylic stone and mineral filler. Like models made of laminated plastic, such countertops have no restrictions in color solutions, are resistant to dirt and easy to clean.

The price is slightly higher, but along with the surcharge you get two indisputable advantages: minor surface damage is easily removed by grinding; an acrylic stone worktop can be installed with a built-in sink and a curly plastic apron to prevent moisture and food from entering the commissures seams.

Tile and Concrete

Although these materials are fundamentally different from each other, they are united by unsurpassed design flexibility. Concrete worktops are available in all imaginable colors, shapes and sizes. Concrete is wear-resistant and durable, however, there is a likelihood of hair cracks, as well as spots, if you do not regularly seal the surface. Concrete worktops belong to the expensive class, but the possibilities of their design are really unique.

Although the tile is not as easy to use as concrete, the result is undoubtedly worth the effort. Combining various colors and textures, you can create a surprisingly beautiful and original countertop. For example, lay a mosaic on the surface or complement the factory tiles with handmade products. Ceramic tiles can withstand very high temperatures, and damaged parts are easy to replace. The main weakness of such a countertop is the seams between the tiles. These areas must be regularly sealed to prevent dirt and mildew. Tile prices are usually moderate, and finding a good master is not difficult.

Wood and bamboo

Wooden countertops create a very cozy atmosphere in the kitchen and, over time, having worn out, begin to look only more elegant. For wood, it is better to choose fine-fibred wood, such as maple. Coarse-grained varieties (for example, oak) are not suitable for countertops, as they become too dirty. Wood tolerates moderate temperatures, and damage such as knife marks can be polished. The biggest danger to a wood worktop is exposure to water. It is necessary to seal, in particular, areas near the sink. Technically not related to wood, bamboo, however, has many common characteristics with it. This material is renewable, so it’s perfect for consumers of the “eco-market” who care about the environment.

In most industrial kitchens, you will see stainless steel countertops and there are reasons for this: they the most durable and wear-resistant, and also do not absorb food and liquids, which simplifies the maintenance of sanitary normal.

The ability to install a sink and an apron is another big plus for rooms that need to be kept as clean as possible. Despite this practicality, many refuse steel worktops, as they find their appearance too austere and cold.

Recyclable material

Some manufacturers may offer recycled tabletops, including glass, paper, and aluminum. In the production of most of these work surfaces, consumer and industrial waste is used. Thus, with minimal energy consumption, high-quality, environmentally friendly materials are obtained. Worktops made from recycled materials are durable, resistant to dirt and easy to grind in case of damage.