7 types of kitchen countertops: choose and do not miss

Appearance and durability of the kitchen worktop are some of the main selection criteria. However, for many people, not only the material is important, but also the ease of maintenance of the product. The article gives an overview of the most used kitchen countertops, tells about their advantages and disadvantages.

Wood tabletop
Granite and marble countertop

Among the natural stones for kitchen surfaces, granite and marble are the most popular. Less common are quartz, travertine or luxurious onyx. Granite countertops are durable, heat resistant, antibacterial, and easy to care for. Marble has a thinner structure than granite, it is softer, so it is easier to scratch. It is sensitive to coffee stains, oil or hot pans. At the same time, it is a great choice for all cooks and baking enthusiasts, because the cool to the touch stone keeps the oil in the dough cold.

Advantages:

strength, durability, heat resistance;
for cleaning, just a little water, soap and a microfiber cloth.

Disadvantages:

The porous structure of the stone;
Afraid of lemon and vinegar;
difficult to install;
high price;
Requires regular impregnation;
Afraid of blunt force, prone to cracking.

Wood tabletop

Solid wood decorates and warms up any space, but requires more care. Wooden worktops need to be treated regularly with a special oil to prolong their life. Sanding helps to get rid of scratches and marks from spilled liquids. With good care, hardwood products will last many years. Over time, the wood gently changes appearance, and the countertop takes on a beautiful patina and expressiveness.

Advantages:

natural look;
withstands high temperatures;
can be re-sanded;
with good care maintains a great look for a long time.

Disadvantages:

Without treatment with wax or oil, absorbs moisture well;
regular maintenance is required.

Laminate countertops

Classic laminate countertops are made of particleboard and synthetic resin. The material withstands up to 180 ° C, is easy to care for, but cannot be repaired if damaged.

Advantages:

large selection of colors and decors;
easy care (does not require impregnation and special preparation);
low price.

Disadvantages:

visible joints;
easily damaged by a knife and high temperatures;
there is a risk of bloating if water gets on the chipboard;
It cannot be refinished;
Must be replaced if seriously damaged.

Compact Laminate.

This coated panel is stronger and more durable than conventional laminate. These boards are very resistant to impact, mechanical damage and water and require virtually no maintenance. Unlike conventional laminate, the panel withstands repeated sanding and polishing, does not require additional processing gluing. In appearance similar to marble, granite, wood, have a matte finely structured or smooth surface.

Advantages:

elegant appearance;
resistance to high temperatures;
antibacterial properties;
water resistance;
resistance to stains and chemicals;
ease of care;
a wide choice of decors.

Disadvantages:

high price.

Composite countertop

A composite is a compound of two or more substances that together gain new and better properties and make the material more durable. In appearance, it does not differ from natural stone, harder and more durable than artificial stone.

Advantages of the composite:

non-porous;
hygienic;
does not require impregnation;
it is easy in care;
not prone to scratches.

Disadvantages:

no significant.

Ceramic countertop

It is an extremely durable material, it is hygienic, does not absorb moisture. The surface does not need any chemical treatment and is practically maintenance-free. It has the highest heat resistance compared to all other materials.

Advantages:

Resistance to high temperatures;
scratch resistance;
resistance to liquids and chemicals;
many color options;
minimal maintenance.

Disadvantages:

fragility;
a blunt blow can damage the material;
it is impossible to cut on ceramics;
joints are visible at lengths of three meters or more;
high price.

Glass countertops

Glass countertops are one of the most expensive options. They are stylish, versatile, durable and easy to care for. Glass surfaces come in a rich palette of different shades and can be matte or glossy. Backlit variants turn into a real design work.