Choosing the Right Kitchen Worktop
Designing a kitchen is never easy and even if you use an expert planner to sort the layout, you still have the nightmare of deciding on the finish. Unfortunately, even when youve chosen between rustic solid oak and high-gloss, laminate cupboard doors, you then need to pick a suitable worktop. With so many different materials available for kitchen counters, how do you know which one is fit for purpose?
Granite
By far, still one of the most popular choices is solid granite. This is a naturally occurring rock that is quarried, cut and polished. There are a wide variety of stunning colours and patterns available from all round the world. Not only is it fantastic for rolling out pastry or kneading bread, you can put a hot pan down without worrying. Granite does have some drawbacks to consider, apart from the cost. It requires periodic sealing, plus it can stain and even chip. Any joins can be minimised but cant be completely hidden.
Composite
Crushed granite, quartz or gemstone is mixed with resin to give the appearance of solid granite but for less outlay. The advantage of composite over solid granite is that it can be shaped more easily to fit your requirements. While it shouldnt require sealing, it can still stain and chip. The other thing is to consider is that resin is plastic and whether youd feel happy with an environmentally unfriendly substance in your worktop.
Wood
Having wooden counter tops will give your kitchen a warm, country feel. Wood also has inherent anti-bacterial properties, which is great for food preparation. Each piece of wood is unique, so no two worktops will be identical and you should be able to find a variety of wood to match your budget. If you have a farmhouse-style kitchen diner with a solid oak dresser, matching worktops would help to make the space flow. But however natural and cosy it might be, wood can be marked from a hot pan and it doesn't like water. In fact, its important to have it installed when no other building work is happening, such as plastering, as it can absorb the moisture. Once the counter is in situ, its recommended to oil it daily for the first week and then every three months thereafter. With the proper maintenance, however, your wooden work surfaces should last for many years.
Corian
This is a synthetic material made from polymers and alumina trihydrate. It can be formed to any shape and size without seams, which means its possible to have a worktop with a moulded, integral sink. Corian is available in a huge range of colours and finishes, giving a sleek, contemporary style. Its not really any cheaper than granite and like every material, it has its cons. It will stain and scratch, which is why moulded sinks arent that popular. Hot pans arent a good idea either. What youre paying for is the seamless continuity.
Stainless Steel
For the serious cook, stainless steel is ideal, as its virtually indestructible and easy to keep clean. It can give your kitchen an ultra-modern, restaurant vibe. Brushed steel wont require as much polishing as standard, which will show every finger print and streak. This isnt a budget worktop, as it will have to be made-to-measure. Of course if youre wanting warm and fuzzy for your kitchen, then look for a different surface. Stainless steel worktops are all about haute cuisine, not Grandmas biscuits.