The kitchen worktop is certainly the most used object in this space – it withstands humidity, shocks, cold and hot dishes. In order to be resistant to scratches, heat, stains but also easy to maintain and to match the kitchen decor, the worktop must be chosen carefully since its material determines its durability and quality.
Does choosing a kitchen worktop seem now like a complicated process? We want to help you make the best decision.
Appearance vs functionality
Before you start your research, you need to know which category you fall into. Do you cook a lot and know that you will spend time in the kitchen trying out various recipes? Then you should prioritize the durability of your countertop. If, on the other hand, the kitchen is the place where you just drink your morning coffee and occasionally heat up food, then you can focus mainly on the aesthetic side of the countertop and not so much on durability.
Types of materials
Marble worktop – it is an ideal material for all kitchen activities, but keep in mind that it is as demanding as it is aesthetic – water droplets or stains and marks will be very visible on marble. It is worth it if you are not necessarily thinking about a perfect and impeccable appearance.
Granite countertops – they are a durable, heat-resistant material that adds an elegant touch to your kitchen. However, they can become stained or lose their luster if not properly maintained. Another thing you should know about granite countertops is that their porous surface requires waterproofing treatments.
Wooden worktop – solid wood adds a noble and glamorous air to the kitchen, but you should know that a wooden worktop will not stay as new for long, especially if it is frequently used. As a worktop, wood is durable, but traces of use will quickly appear on its surface.
Stainless steel worktop – for an industrial-style kitchen, a stainless steel worktop is an ideal choice. It is heat-resistant, easy to clean and maintain. You can put hot dishes directly on the worktop, but for cutting you need a chopping board because you can not cut directly on the stainless steel worktop.
Composite worktop – composite is an amalgam of materials, such as quartz powder and natural stone. Composite worktop is resistant to shocks and scratches and because it is non-porous, it does not require regular maintenance. If you choose such a worktop, you will give your kitchen an elegant and refined look.
Glass worktop – we are talking about a tempered and laminated glass, with a thickness of at least 10 mm. For a modern kitchen, this worktop material is ideal, especially since you can now find glass in a variety of colors and shapes. Glass is heat-resistant and shock-resistant only if it is thick enough.
Keep in mind that the durability and appearance of your kitchen countertop greatly depend on how you maintain it. Use pot holders, chopping boards, and special cleaning solutions for the countertop material.
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