How to Choose the Best Material for your New Kitchen Worktops

One of the most vital parts you’ll need to decide on for your kitchen is the new kitchen worktops.

They not only provide the all-important space for food preparation but they also contribute an integral part to the kitchen’s looks.

They come in a range of materials including laminate, wood, stone and stainless steel. But which material is best for you? We’ve put together a list of the pros and cons of each material to help you decide on your new kitchen worktops.

Laminate

Of course, there are some negatives though and you won’t be able to chop food directly onto it. Hot pans are also an issue as the surface is easily damaged.

Granite

For homeowners looking for something a little more lavish, granite is a great option. This natural material is found all over the world and no two pieces are ever the same, creating a unique appeal for your kitchen.

It won’t scratch or burn either which is a definite plus for the kitchen, but because of all its qualities, the price can escalate.

Concrete

Polished concrete is fast becoming an option for homeowners now that it’s had some upgrades. You can have a concrete worktop in a range of colours and get a flat, smooth finish.

Of course, concrete is naturally strong and heat-resistant, making it perfect for kitchens. It no longer cracks or chips easily thanks to improved technology, and you can have them sealed to stop staining.

Stainless steel

For anyone who loves the industrial look, stainless steel is fantastic. It’s heat-, stain- and rust-resistant so it’s easy to keep clean as bacteria can’t thrive on it. Just make sure that you use a chopping board whenever you prepare food otherwise you could end up with scratches.

Another good idea is to choose a brushed stainless steel because it will hide any marks you do manage to get on the surface. To keep the look feeling homely, combine stainless steel with wood.

Wood

Wood is another material that has been around for a long time like granite worktops. A great thing about wood is that if you damage it, you can simply get it refinished and restore it to its former glory.

The only downside to wood is that it’s quite high maintenance. You’ll need to seal it once a month to stop it getting damaged by heat and moisture.

Soapstone

Have you heard of soapstone before? It looks a little like granite, as it ranges from light grey to greeny-black in colour. The difference between soapstone and granite worktops is that soapstone won’t need sealing regularly as it is a nonporous material.

Like stainless steel, it can get scratched or dented easily which will show up. If you choose light grey soapstone, it will darken over time and can sometimes develop a pattern on it. But it does look super-stylish and can be paired with wood for a great finish.

Engineered quartz

Engineered quartz looks absolutely stunning and it is stronger than granite. It won’t scratch, crack or stain easily and it’s resistant to heat. There are plenty of colours and styles available, but because it’s engineered an entire run will look the same.

If you like the fact that granite worktops offer characteristics of natural stone, engineered quartz might not be for you. But if you want beautiful worktops, choose engineered quartz in a white to resemble marble.

So are you closer to making a choice for your new kitchen worktops? Click ‘Start my Project’ to get up to 4 quotes from reliable kitchen fitters.