Your kitchen worktop is one of the most important features in your kitchen. Ideally, you want a stylish countertop that fits the aesthetics of your kitchen perfectly while also staying easy to clean and maintain so it lasts for years to come. You also need to consider some other important factors. Do I need a high-level of heat resistance? Am I willing to commit to regular maintenance? Can my counters support a heavier worktop? You need to consider all of these in addition to how the worktop will look in your kitchen.
There is a whole range of different materials available to you, all with their different advantages, and suitable for all budgets and tastes. Here are some of the most popular choices.
Granite
This is one of the most popular choices for worktops on the market. The natural colours fit well into most kitchens while the stone itself is durable and stylish. It might seem like a pricy choice when making your final decision, but granite counters can last for years when correctly maintained, thus making it a worthy investment.
Wood
Wooden countertops firmly remain an excellent and classic choice. They can look traditional or modern depending on the variety of wood used. Like granite, they are a worthy investment that lasts for years. They do require some maintenance to keep them looking as good as the day they were installed but they are easy to clean and are naturally antibacterial.
Recycled wooden countertops are also the perfect choice for anyone looking for a more eco-friendly and green kitchen.
Quartz
Quartz is a man-made stone, popular for worktops as it can be made in many different colours to suit your kitchen’s theme. Quartz worktops, like granite and wood, are also durable and easy to clean. They are one of the more expensive options, but their high level of customisability makes them ideal for anyone with a precise style they wish to fulfil.
Corian
Corian is one of the brands who make solid surface worktops by using acrylic resin over wood. They can create impressive statement island surfaces in your kitchen while remaining durable and hygienic. What’s more, because they are a solid block, they have no seams or joints to harbour bacteria. They are expensive, but they are also one of the most flexible options on the market.
Laminate
Worktops made from laminate are the perfect, budget option. They are cheap, easy to clean, easy to maintain, and can be made to look like they cost far more than they actually did. Don’t think you are going to have to save to splash out on an expensive worktop; there may be a perfect laminate solution waiting for you.
Stainless Steel
The favourite of restaurant and catering kitchens worldwide, a stainless-steel worktop will give your kitchen a modern flair. It can also form a much lighter alternative to wood or stone if your counters cannot support a lot of weight, all while remaining strong and easy to clean. While an entire kitchen of stainless steel may feel commercial and clinical, a small section will create a stylish focal point.