A kitchen benchtop includes a dramatic and significant effect on the overall look and ambiance of your kitchen.  It can be the centerpiece of your kitchen and can generally be the focal point of this area where socializing happens and can be the busiest place in your kitchen.

In your kitchen your benchtop is among the most used space in  your kitchen, so it should be designed keeping in mind the practical value it offers, it must be strong and durable enough to withstand daily usage.  Remember also to consider other aspects like warmth, water resistance, maintenance costs and ease of cleaning as well as the installation cost and guarantee.

In the past, Formica and plastic laminates were the favourite choice since it was simple to keep.  Nowadays you can discover a lot of alternatives and materials to choose from for you kitchen benchtop.

Finding The Right Material For Your Kitchen Benchtop

Solid Surface

Solid surface kitchen benchtops can be the ideal option if you are searching for something affordable.  It is made from cast plastics like polyester, acrylic and mineral fillers and can be highly resistant to scratches and markings. They are durable and non- porous but are prone to breaking and become damaged by hot pans. You can choose from a wide array of colors and layouts.

Marble

Marble is the most elegant looking benchtops. Marble is made from natural rock so it’s abrasion, damage proof and is water and heat resistant. But, it’s advisable to use cleaning methods intended for granite to keep it looking like new so, if you need to have marble kitchen benchtop installed guarantee you are provided information on proper care and maintenance.

Quartz

Quartz benchtops are made from a composite of natural quartz, resin pigments and binders which makes it strong and preserves the look of the natural rock. These are non porous and is extremely hygienic, easy to keep and clean.  This sort of benchtop should be installed by a professional.

Finding The Right Material For Your Kitchen Benchtop

Laminates

Laminated benchtops are made from plywood or fiberboard and coated with plastic.  It is extremely cheap but can crack, scratch or damaged by heat.  These laminated benchtops are a breeze to clean with soap and water.  It is available in a number of colors and textures.

Concrete

Concrete kitchen benchtop is a great do-it-yourself substance.  Be ready to experiment if you want to make the benchtop yourself.  You can use colored pigments, chemical stains and different types of aggregates and when properly done it can seem like granite, marble or limestone.  There are a lot of alternatives which you can choose from and it can be quite economical.  In the event you choose to simply buy one that is prepared to set up, you will find producers who make polished concrete kitchen countertops which are extremely appealing and are easily priced.

Create a wise decision.  Pick the kitchen benchtop that blends and matches nicely with the plan of your kitchen and apart from the looks, think about its durability and performance.