How To Choose The Perfect Kitchen Worktop

Choosing your kitchen worktop is often the most crucial element when it comes to designing the look and quality of your kitchen. It is important to choose your worktop not just on the basis of style and aesthetics but also taking into account the type of usage your kitchen will get, as well as practicality, ease of upkeep and durability. Here, we look at some of the main contenders for your affection, the pro and cons and relative costs involved. Contact Steve Randle today for your kitchen fitting and planning needs throughout Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, The Cotswolds, Warwickshire & The West Midlands and we will be pleased to give you specific advice on your work surfaces.

Laminate Worktops

Laminate is the tried and tested worktop of choice for many kitchens. It is relatively cheap and construction techniques have advanced considerably in the last twenty years, it now being available in a multitude of reasonably realistic mimicked surfaces. However, it is not the most durable surface and is easily burnt, not really heat resistant, it can be scorched by hot pans and scratched. Repair can be made using an epoxy filler but repairs are not usually seamless. If your kitchen is light use however or you are happy to change your surfaces every few years (one of the cheapest and easiest ways to get that new kitchen look back) then it can be the ideal choice.

Wood Worktops

Real wood, or engineered wood, make attractive choices for your worktop and are relatively damage resistant and repairable. They do however take regular upkeep and it is recommended to oil them at least twice a year. As a result, they do not handle water ingress well, but the glorious deep colours of Maple or Walnut often provide a very attractive finish, especially for rustic, natural looking installations, while keeping within a reasonable budget for most kitchens.

Granite Worktops

Granite is not as expensive as many people think, being significantly cheaper than engineered stone or composites. Its range of shades and patterns can offset any kitchen style beautifully. The main advantage of Granite is its durability and heat resistance, however if it sis damaged, unlikely as this is, it is almost impossible to repair well. Granite is actually a porous material so it is advised to seal it every six months.

Stainless Steel Worktops

If you are looking for that ultra-modern look then why not go for Stainless Steel? It is very robust, clean and hygienic, and although it does wear, often the patina acquired can become part of its charm. It does show grease and marks easily but if you have a busy, heavy usage kitchen then it is the ideal choice.

Glass Worktops

If you are looking for something a bit different then Glass is a good choice. It does not need sealing, is heat resistant up to 400 degrees Celsius and comes in a range of colours. It can be lit from below for an artistic effect. Polished glass will however show scratches and joins are visible.

Final Thoughts

If budget is no issue, then you could also consider marble or engineered stone surfaces. These have the benefit of being ultra-durable, easy to care for and look absolutely stunning. We hope that this brief summary gives you a better understanding of how to plan your kitchen, Steve Randle Installations will be happy to provide a consultation to discuss your design plans if you are in the Worcester, Gloucester or Cotswolds area so why not give us a ring today on 01386 555572, 07446 995577 or drop us an email.