Most people will only ever invest in two kitchens in their lifetime, therefore every decision you make for your next kitchen renovation is one that requires much deliberation. In this article, we share the most common types of kitchen benchtops, different qualities of materials, and how to know which benchtop is right for you.
Common Types Of Kitchen Benchtops
Popular benchtops are made from natural materials – marble, granite, and stone – and man-made materials including engineered solid surfaces like Caesarstone, Silestone, and Dekton.
Natural Benchtops – Marble, Granite & Natural Stone
Natural marble, granite and stone benchtops are high-end products that offer a one-of-a-kind finish. These surfaces can be finished with a polished, flamed, honed, or brushed look, which makes these surfaces extremely versatile suitable for different home styles. Marble benchtops need higher maintenance as it is porous and can stain, whereas granite and natural stone are stronger and more resilient.
Another choice you have is a timber benchtop, which provides a warm, rustic feel to a kitchen space. Although these are beautiful surfaces, this material is more susceptible to stains and scratches as they are not fully moisture resistant.
Advantages Of Natural Benchtops
- Highly resistant to bacteria, staining, and heat with the right treatment and sealing
- Granite and stone benchtops can withstand acidic products such as red wine or lemon juice
- For something other than the traditional polished finish, consider honed for a matte look, leathered for a sophisticated, grained appearance or hammered for a textured, rustic look.
Man-made Benchtops – Engineered Solid Surfaces, Concrete & Laminate
Available in a range of thicknesses, engineered benchtops are crafted from a combination of ground stone or quartz, polymers, and pigments. Engineered solid materials offer a non-porous surface that is scratch, stain, and heat resistant – typically less expensive than natural marble.
Concrete benchtops offer a raw and industrial feel to a kitchen. The only downside to this surface material is that it is porous and requires a sealer to defend it from scratches and heat. Moreover, laminate benchtops are a popular budget option and are available in colours and finishes to complement just about any kitchen style.
Advantages Of Man-Made Benchtops
- Suitable for those on a tighter budget
- Provide durability, ease of maintenance, and are available in an array of both conventional and contemporary colours.
- Can be used in a variety of applications due to their non-porous and durable properties. For example, flooring, backsplashes and even walls.
Which Kitchen Benchtop Should I Choose?
Ultimately, the benchtop that you choose should be based on your needs and priorities. Are you looking for a benchtop that is a showstopper and will not be subjected to heavy use? You may want to consider natural benchtops, such as marble or another natural stone.
Alternatively, for young and growing families, engineered kitchen benchtops would be more suitable as the materials are tougher and are less likely to stain, scratch or chip.
Think about the budget, colour, durability, and uniqueness when you are considering which benchtop material is suitable for you and your household.
Create A Kitchen That Will Perform Well For Years To Come
Whether you are looking for inspiration or want to know more about natural and man-made benchtops, DK Design Kitchens would love to turn your benchtop idea into a dream benchtop design by giving utmost care and unmatched attention to detail.
With over 60 years of custom kitchen design and build experience, DK Design Kitchens are based in Collaroy NSW. Our primary service locations are Sydney’s Northern Beaches and the North Shore. To find out more about how we can transform your next kitchen, call us on 02 8413 8899!
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