The kitchen countertop needs to withstand lots of abuse. Hot pots straight off the stove, knives and abrasive cleansers. The ideal countertop is able to stand up to heat and the sharp edge of a knife.
Allow us to take a look at 7 of the preferred kitchen countertop materials being used:
Granite
A natural stone, granite is a well-liked option for its basic beauty and durability. Granite is the toughest and densest of the pure stones. It’s a kitchen countertop that’s extremely scratch resistant and may keep its luster longer than most materials. Granite slabs are of the more expensive of kitchen countertop surfaces, though it’s still considered a very practical material in that it’s just about indestructible.
A drawback is that granite (and the other hard materials listed) is that it is hard on your crockery. You will notice that after a time, your crockery has managed to develop a number of chips.
Marble
Another pure stone, marble is considered elegant and will last longer than most kitchens. It is nevertheless of the more expensive countertop options and requires specific care: acidic foods and liquids like orange juice will etch the finished surface of a marble kitchen countertop.
Slate
Due to it richness and beauty slate is usually used for inside purposes including kitchen counter tops, rest room sinks or fire surrounds. It can be used in both trendy or traditional kitchens. Slate is durable, strong, and can withstand onerous use. It is less expensive than marble.
Concrete
Looks good for clear, industrial and contemporary kitchen designs. Available in pre formed sections or poured and fashioned on-site. Concrete is a good material for unusually formed counters. Concrete kitchen countertops are expensive, require a sealant and have to be handled with care. The countertop can crack if the concrete contracts. Concrete could be stained any color. The most popular shade is a natural gray tone. The highest layer can be completed as desired.
Timber
Always a great value add to any kitchen. Advantages are that it is simple to re-finish – whether it’s due to damage or simply to fit in with your new decor. There are a number of timber finishing products that are extremely durable. Bamboo counter tops have a very good flammability rating, so are particularly suited to being used for a kitchen counter top. Another specific characteristic of bamboo, is that it tolerates moisture very well compared to other timbers.
Stainless Steel
Advantages are; very hygienic, easy to wash, has ability to face up to extreme wear and heat. Stainless-steel can offer a fashionable kitchen. Stainless steel can be noisy and difficult to repair when scratched
Tile
Tile surfaces can handle scorching pans, are heat and stain resistant as well as having a wide range of styles available. There are many types of tiles including ceramic, porcelain, quarry, glass, pure stone and mosaic. It has good design flexibility. Tile can usually be used for trim or back splashes. The downside of tile is that the grout can be easily stained.
Additionally tiles are easily chipped or cracked.
Pressed boards (bonus)
The most common are the Formica® type tops. These tops are made from chips of wood pressed together and covered with a melamine plastic surface. These tops are the cheapest option, but also the least durable. Exposure to water will cause these tops to swell and the only option when damaged is replacement. Another point for consideration, is that plastic is not a food friendly surface. It has been scientifically demonstrated that the cuts in plastic harbour gems.