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How to choose my kitchen worktop
Article Kitchen

How to choose my kitchen worktop?

Choosing the right kitchen worktop is essential for both functionality and aesthetic appeal. At Spaces By Design, we understand the importance of selecting a surface that complements your kitchen design and withstands the rigours of daily use. Whether you prioritise durability, affordability, or luxurious design, we will guide you through the decision-making process so you can make an informed choice that enhances the heart of your home. Let's explore the world of kitchen worktops together.

Weldon kitchen space reed martyn50

Quartz 

Crafted from engineered stone comprising up to 93% quartz particles, Quartz worktops boast a contemporary allure alongside diverse colours and styles, rendering them a favoured choice for kitchens. 

Features and considerations for Quartz worktops:

  • Scratch and stain resistance due to their non-porous surface.
  • Ability to replicate natural stone, including convincing marble-like veining.
  • There is no requirement for annual sealing, unlike natural stone counterparts.
  • Uniform slabs, devoid of imperfections.
  • Longevity, ensuring a worthwhile investment and potential home value enhancement.
  • Heat and chemical resistance, though precautions against direct heat exposure are advised, to prevent scorch marks. 
  • Price range: £££ 

Granite 

Granite worktops are renowned for their timeless elegance and durability, boasting natural swirls, veins, and unique colour variations. 

Features and considerations for Granite worktops:

  • Exceptional durability, ideal for high-traffic kitchens.
  • Natural antibacterial properties for a safe environment.
  • Increases property value and offers a wide range of colours, though variations in patterns exist between slabs. 
  • Granite is heat-resistant, but using trivets is advisable. 
  • Price range: £££
Bainton kitchen design47

Marble 

 Marble worktops epitomise luxury, instantly elevating any kitchen with their opulent ambience. Each slab's natural markings ensure a unique touch, making marble a beloved choice among homeowners. 

Features and considerations for Marble worktops:

  • Aspirational luxury and timeless beauty, with proper care ensuring enduring quality.
  • Natural cooling properties are favoured by chefs (for tasks like dough rolling). However, marble's porous nature makes it prone to staining and scratching, posing challenges in busy kitchens. 
  • Annual sealing is recommended, and acidic cleaners should be avoided. 
  • Prices typically range from ££££.

Ultra Compact Stone

Ultra compact worktops such as Dekton, Neolith, Laminam are often chosen for contemporary kitchens for their modern look and finishes.  While their manufacturing complexity can make them expensive, their low-maintenance nature proves cost-effective over time. 

Features and considerations for Ultra compact worktops:

  • Marble-inspired finishes, slimline design starting from 12mm thickness, matt & gloss finishes.
  • Non porous, no sealing is required, unlike marble. 
  • Heat, UV and scratch resistant.
  • Often not through bodied (design on the surface only)
  • Some colours available as book matched.
  • Prices typically range from ££££.
Traditional shaker kitchen design space colsterworth76

Corian®

Corian® worktops, comprised of 1/3 acrylic resin and 2/3 natural minerals, offer a solid surface, available in various colours. While visible seams may occur in large or irregularly shaped countertops, Corian® worktops are known for their nearly seamless joints making it the perfect choice for a continuous surface. With a price lower than quartz but higher than laminate, Corian provides an affordable mid-range option with numerous colour and style choices. 

Features and considerations for Corian worktops:

  • Wide design selection with modern colours and patterns.
  • A non-porous surface eliminates the need for yearly sealing.
  • Sunlight resistant, maintaining colour opacity over time.
  • Generally durable, though prone to dents and scratches. It's less heat resistant, requiring trivets for hot items. 
  • Prices typically fall within the ££ range.

Laminate 

Laminate worktops, comprising a plastic overlay and design layer bonded to the manmade board, offer versatility in mimicking various finishes at an affordable price. With options resembling weathered wood or luxurious marble, laminate suits any budget, making it an excellent choice for cost-conscious consumers. 

Features and considerations for laminate worktops: 

  • Water-resistant and antibacterial properties, easy to maintain and safe for the family.
  • Ability to mimic expensive materials for a designer look.
  • Versatility in suiting any home style, from contemporary to traditional.
  • Durability against scratches and cracking, though susceptible to peeling and damage from extreme heat. 
  • Proper sealing of joints and edges is necessary to prevent water penetration.
  • Prices typically fall within the £ range.
Weldon kitchen space cocktail bar12

Wood 

Wood worktops effortlessly blend with both traditional and modern kitchen styles. With a diverse range available, prices vary, but generally, timber is more cost-effective than stone, offering a timeless investment that ages gracefully. 

Features and considerations for wood worktops: 

  • Versatile styles with various wood grains and colours to match any home.
  • Potential antibacterial benefits with proper maintenance.
  • A timeless design that ages well, complementing classic and contemporary homes alike. 
  • However, wood requires bi-annual maintenance with oil products to prevent rotting and discolouration. 
  • Regular cleaning with warm water and a soft cloth is advised, alongside using trivets to prevent splitting or warping. 
  • Prices typically range from £-£