Highly functional and aesthetically appealing kitchen worktops are the hallmarks of a good kitchen. The good news is that kitchen work tops are available in a range of materials to suit different needs and preferences. Here is a look at some kitchen counter surface materials that you can opt for.
Wooden: Wooden kitchen tops offer a classic look and are available in oak, birch, elm, teal and maple, to name a few. An advantage of wooden worktops is that they have anti-bacterial qualities, thus offering a hygienic surface. These surfaces also offer good durability.
Solid Oak Shelf
Laminate:Laminate surfaces are very affordable and easily meet small budgets. Good quality laminate surfaces have a sturdy build and are resistant to stains. Laminate is typically the lowest cost solution and is available in a number of colors and textures.
Granite: The appeal of granite work tops lies in their attractive looks and strong build quality. They offer a smooth surface that is also heat resistant. Granite worktops are a good choice in terms of durability as well. Granite can can be custom cut from slabs and then the edges polished. Pre cut sections of granite can also be purchased and typically cost a lot less.
Solid surfaced: Solid surfaced kitchen worktops use a solid sheet, typically bonded to chipboard, along with a balancer laminate under it. They offer a contemporary look. These non-porous counter surfaces offer a bacteria-resistant surface. Easy cleaning and maintenance add to their popularity. The market leading brand is Corian however, similar products can be found at lower price points.
Stainless steel: Stainless steel kitchen surfaces are used extensively in commercial settings such as restaurants, offices, schools and hospitals. These worktops impart a clean and minimalist look to kitchens. Certainly the commercial style kitchen is becoming more popular in homes so we are seeing the use of stainless steel more.
Quartz: Quartz kitchen work surfaces are becoming increasingly popular in the market. Besides scoring high on the aesthetics factor, they offer a smooth, durable and scratch-resistant non-porous surface.
Choosing the right work surface is not a difficult task. Keep the following factors in mind when you go about buying kitchen work surfaces: aesthetics, durability, functionality, ease of maintenance and cleaning, and the price.
Kitchen worktop installation calls for a careful examination of where the sink, cutting boards, stove and drainage are located in your kitchen. Remember that taking these aspects into consideration and fitting is a job best left to specialists.