Choosing a kitchen worktop

With so many available options on the market, choosing a kitchen worktop can feel like a bit of a minefield. An important part of the kitchen design that can ultimately determine the final look, it is crucial that you get this decision right. The overall look will of course be a primary consideration but there are also numerous practicalities to reflect on, as well as budget restrictions.

Firstly, you’ll need to think about your capacity for maintenance and whether a high maintenance worktop may be unsuitable. Other practicalities to consider are heat resistance, hygiene concerns and susceptibility to scratches and stains. Whether or not you have children could also have a bearing on which worktop you choose; for example, glass is often considered inappropriate for children.

In this post we discuss the different types of worktop available and the associated pros and cons of each.

Composite

Composite worktops are man-made from a combination of natural stones and resins. They can be made into bespoke shapes and can be used anywhere, including next to hobs and around the sink. Composite materials offer an impressive array of practicality benefits.

Pros

• Heat, stain and scratch resistant (subject to brand)
• Stylish and sleek
• Work well in contemporary kitchens
• Available in a range of colours

Cons

• Although very resilient, composite worktops can still mark and scratch
• Generally expensive, especially with options such as Corian

Stone

Stone worktops include the likes of granite, marble, limestone, sandstone and basalt. All must be treated with a sealant and units must be strong enough to withstand the weight of these heavy materials. The properties of each type of stone vary but they generally all have similar pros and cons.

Pros

• Heat resistant
• Anti-bacterial
• Easy to clean
• Very hard-wearing and exceptional durability means minimal maintenance
• Look fantastic – each surface offers an individual look due to unique colours and markings

Cons

• Expensive
• The likes of marble, limestone and sandstone can be damaged by acids and alcohol substances

Wood

If a spot of regular maintenance doesn’t put you off then a wooden worktop could be the option for you. It looks wonderful and can suit a range of kitchen styles but works particularly well for a more classic, traditional look.

Pros

• Scratches or burns can be easily sanded out
• Less expensive than stone options
• Variety of grains and colours available
• Gets better with age (with the right maintenance)

Cons

• Requires regular maintenance and resealing
• Spillages must be mopped up immediately to avoid stains
• Scorch marks and scratches can occur (although can be sanded out)

Laminate

The pros and cons of laminate worktops are heavily dependent on the quality of the laminate. There are a range of price points and you really do get what you pay for so be sure to do your research. Laminate is a versatile material and one of the more popular options on the market, largely due to affordability.

Pros

• Good quality laminate is heat resistant and durable
• Maintenance free
• Easy to clean
• Option for built-in antibacterial coatings
• Can resemble more expensive materials in look
• Affordable
• Available in a range of finishes

Cons

• Lower quality laminates can be prone to heat damage and scratches
• Can therefore lose hygiene benefits if damaged
• Can mimic more expensive materials but never as good as the real deal

Glass

Glass is a popular option for contemporary kitchens and is often used for stylish breakfast bars. It is best avoided in family homes where there are children due to susceptibility to fingerprints and other similar marks.

Pros

• Gives a sense of space
• Looks impressive, stylish and modern
• Variety of finishes available, such as opaque or recycled glass and different colours
• Resistant to stains, heat and water

Cons

• Shows up fingerprints so needs frequent cleaning
• Can scratch (although usually these can be polished out)
• Expensive as it requires specialist cutting

Stainless steel

Mostly used in commercial kitchens, stainless steel is nevertheless becoming more popular in the home with the trend for industrial chic. It has various practicality benefits but can be difficult to incorporate into a domestic environment without looking too clinical.

Pros

• Hygiene benefits due to being naturally antibacterial
• Exceptional durability
• Heat and acid resistant
• Waterproof
• Light
• Easy to clean

Cons

• Develops scratches over time (although some think this adds charm)
• Shows fingerprints easily
• Can look cold and clinical

We understand that choosing a kitchen worktop can be challenging. Our friendly team of award-winning designers are here to guide you to the best decision for your own personal needs and requirements. For more information on the kitchens we have on offer, request a brochure by clicking on the button in the top right hand corner. If you’d like to do further research before you come and see us, have a browse of the PWS worktops.