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HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT KITCHEN BENCHTOP

Choosing the right kitchen benchtop material can be a daunting task. There are so many different types of kitchen benchtops available, each with their own pros and cons.

 

Your kitchen benchtop will be one of the most hard-working surfaces in your home so strength, durability and maintenance requirements are key factors when choosing a suitable benchtop material. You'll also want something that looks amazing and complements the decor of your home. And of course, every consideration must take into account your budget and lifestyle.

 

To help make it easier for you to find the perfect kitchen benchtop for your new kitchen, we’ve put together this table outlining the main things you need to consider when deciding which material to choose.

BENCHTOP MATERIAL

PROS

CONS

Laminate Benchtops

  • Laminate benchtops come in an almost limitless range of colours and designs to suit any kitchen style or decor.

  • Laminate is the most affordable kitchen benchtop material

  • Waterproof

  • Easy to clean

  • Not as long-lasting as stone or marble benchtops. The average life-span of a laminate benchtop is 20 years.

  • Laminate surfaces can be easily scratched, scorched and burnt

  • Laminate surfaces become dull over time

  • Can't repair chipped surfaces

  • If water enters scratched or damaged laminate, it can swell and warp

Timber Benchtops

  • Timber benchtops create a warm and inviting look to your kitchen

  • Timber benchtops contrast beautifully with sleek modern surfaces and are equally at home in more traditional style kitchens

  • A very cost-effective option

  • High maintenance option as timber benchtops require regular oiling or waxing with a food-safe oil or polyurethane. Although polyurethane lasts longer, it requires sanding back the entire benchtop before applying a new coat which is messy and time-consuming

  • Stains easily if spills are not wiped up quickly

  • Can scratch and scorch easily

  • Repairs are relatively simple as timber benchtops can be  sanded and resealed 

Engineered Stone Benchtops
  • Engineered stone benchtops give your kitchen a look of style and premium quality
  •  Manufactured with a high percentage of quartz, one of the hardest minerals on earth

  • More resistant to scratches than laminate

  • Doesn't require ongoing maintenance such as sealing or waxing

  • Edges can be cut in a variety of profiles to suit any style of kitchen 

  • Comes with a 10-15 year warranty

  • If cared for properly, stone benchtops can last a lifetime.

  • More expensive than laminate

  • Patterning in each slab is uniform. In large areas, the pattern may repeat which looks unnatural

Natural Stone Benchtops

  • Marble and granite benchtops bring a sophisticated, luxury finish to your kitchen

  •  Natural stone is extremely hard wearing and can last a lifetime if cared for correctly

  • Stains, scratches and small chips can be repaired by professional restorers

  • Edges can be cut in a variety of profiles to suit any style of kitchen

  • Expensive

  • High maintenance surfaces that require regular upkeep. Natural stone is a porous material that requires regular sealing with good quality, specialty sealant

  • Common spills such as red wine, citrus juice, vinegar and sauces cause staining if not wiped up quickly

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