Different Types of Worktops: Pros, Cons And Best Choices

As part of a kitchen refit, choosing your worktop is a central decision. Indeed, some favour a change of worktop to give their kitchen a facelift when a full renovation is out of the question. However, how do you decide what’s right for you when faced with so many different types of worktops? There are aesthetics to consider, as well as your kitchen usage and maintenance demands. Not to forget the all-important financial implications! So let us help you get to the bottom of all the types of worktops out there so you can come to an informed decision. 

Glass 

Excellent for a modern design, this material offers a flawless and reflective surface. With a vast array of colours or patterns possible, you can express yourself in your kitchen design. As it is engineered and toughened, it’s heat resistant to extreme temperatures and will not stain or buckle under heavy use or chopping. However, it can prove expensive and is not impossible to scratch. As a non-porous material, this type of worktop is low maintenance and hygienic. The reflective surface is susceptible to smearing and fingerprints, though, so keep stocked in glass cleaner or vinegar!

Granite

This natural stone is extremely hard wearing, and once installed in your kitchen will provide good, long-term use. It’s a highly valued material that offers a striking finish. Granite worktops can sit perfectly within both traditional and modern kitchen schemes. Although the surface, when sealed, is stain resistant, beware of prolonged contact with acidic substances, wine or citrus. Any spills should be removed straight away to avoid leaving a permanent mark. In general, maintaining the hygiene of this type of worktop is simple. Just use a damp cloth and mild cleanser.

Laminate

This is a popular solution for a tight budget, as of all types of worktops, the cost is relatively low. In this way, you will find laminate worktops in many standard kitchens. The aesthetic options for laminate surfaces are wide and varied, so it is easy to find a laminate style to fit within a concept. However, for those seeking a long-term style of kitchen, a laminate surface may not offer the longevity that more natural materials can supply. 

Marble

A beautiful natural stone that is a real mark of timeless elegance! The contours of natural marble provide a depth of aesthetic beauty that is striking. With light tones, marble worktops will make a room feel larger and brighter. When sealed, it is a sufficiently durable surface, if not the most indestructible. If you are a prolific baker (or even if you’re not!), the coolness of a marble surface will bring ease of work into your kitchen.

Quartz

As quartz is partially engineered using fragments of quartz mixed with resin, it is manufactured in a wide range of colours and patterns. In this way, you can always find a variety to suit your concept. Quartz has a non-porous surface, which is easy to wipe clean, and you can enjoy the durability that natural stones offer. For super high heat resistance, seek out Quartz’s cousin, Dekton. This is a compacted material that is almost indestructible! 

Wood

A very natural look, wood worktops will age with your kitchen. This could mean changing colour with time or altering to fit an updated scheme by applying different oils. Out of the different types of worktops out there, wood is the most expensive to maintain. Every slip with a knife, coffee spill or misplaced pan will leave a mark. However, surface marks can be sanded away, so these marks will not be permanent.

With so many different types of worktops to consider, it can be hard to know where to start. If you narrow your decision to natural stone, you’re one step closer to finding your perfect worktop. Just contact us at Zenstone.

Zenstone Ltd is a Surrey-based leader with over 30 years of experience crafting bespoke granite, marble, and quartz units using traditional and modern techniques.