Types Of Benchtop Materials For Your New Kitchen

Posted on: 30 September 2019

Planning the kitchen for your new home involves numerous choices for cabinetry, splashback and flooring. One vital component is the benchtop. Taking up such a large area, it has a significant impact on the aesthetic of your kitchen; plus, it needs to be durable enough to withstand daily use. Here are several materials to consider.

Natural Stone Counters

Stone introduces a natural element into the kitchen, with its beautiful flecks and mottles. No one else will have your exact countertop because each slab is unique. Marble is available in a range of colours: off-white, blue, pink, yellow, grey or black. Granite benches can be grey, white, red or pink, ingrained with various other colours. While rock is extremely durable and long-lasting, it does need regular sealing and care. Marble, in particular, can stain in reaction to acidic liquids such as wine and tomato juice, so any spills need prompt cleaning. Granite is harder and more resilient. Both types of stone can undergo different finishings to achieve either a matte or polished lustre. Make sure your cabinetry is sturdy enough to hold the weight of the slab.

Timber Benches

Timber benchtops use a variety of species that display a range of hues—from the cream and honey tones of some woods to the rich reds of others. With its warmth and grain patterns, a wooden benchtop adds a distinct sense of comfort. It can be warm and homey in a country kitchen, or pale and sleek in a Scandinavian design. Whether your kitchen is rustic, industrial or contemporary, you'll be able to find a timber benchtop to complement the decor. To maintain its appeal, finish or oil the bench periodically, and use trivets for hot pots and pans. However, you can resand the wood at intervals to remove any scratches or marks. Make sure to view your particular counter in person before you purchase, as each will vary slightly.

Engineered Stone Slabs

Engineered stone matches the beauty of natural stone with the science of plastics and resins. Typically, crushed quartz mixes with various other elements to produce a hard, resilient surface that is tougher than natural rock alone. Consistency is a major benefit also, as manufacturers can mix different stones and colours to create set looks. It will thus be easier for your home builders to match multiple counters throughout your kitchen and bathroom. While your bench will look natural, you won't need to take as much care, as engineered stone has an inbuilt seal that renders it relatively nonporous.

For more information about related options when it comes to building your house, reach out to builders.

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