Which type of kitchen worktop?

Kitchen worktops come in many colours, styles and materials. If you are planning a kitchen refurb, you need to consider how to balance practicality and aesthetics for the most suitable option.

Factors affecting your choice of worktop

If you go to professional kitchen refurb providers, such as https://www.thekitchenrefurbishmentcompany.co.uk, they will ask about your preferred style, colour, pattern, material, finish, durability, eco-friendliness, maintenance requirements and budget.

Types of Kitchen Worktops

Wood

A sustainable option if sourced responsibly, wood has a warm, natural appearance, and every piece has a unique grain. It will need treatment and maintenance to protect it, as its porous nature makes it susceptible to moisture and chemicals.

Marble

Often considered the height of luxury, a historic symbol of wealth and opulence, marble has a distinctive appearance. It is softer than granite and reacts badly to chemical cleaners, so use warm water and seal regularly to extend its lifespan.

Granite

Dark and striking in appearance, every piece of granite is unique in its pattern. It can resist water and high temperatures, although acidic spills, such as wine and lemon juice, should be cleaned immediately. Seal once a year to minimise staining and damage.

Quartz

Quartz is another form of stone, with its associated strength, durability, scratch, stain and heat resistance, but is manmade, without the sealing and maintenance requirements of marble or granite. As it is not porous, bacteria cannot accumulate, and it is easy to wipe clean.

Durat

Only invented in the 1990s, Durat is made from recycled and recyclable plastic, maximising sustainability. Maintenance requires only occasional sanding. Durat remains durable in the face of moisture, heat and chemicals, and is available in hundreds of different colours.

Stainless steel

Suitable for contemporary and industrial-style kitchens, but not porous like concrete, stainless steel is popular in restaurants because it is resilient and hygienic/easy to clean, although it does scratch easily.

You may want a kitchen that is sleek and modern, or one with a cosier, more traditional atmosphere. Either way, your choice of kitchen worktop will have a significant impact.