Granite Benchtops A benchtop can truly be an outstanding attribute for your kitchen. It is crucial that kitchen benchtops need to be strong, water resistant and long lasting apart from its aesthetic appeal. In-style benchtop material consists of engineered quartz, laminated and natural stone (marble or granite). Each material has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and knowing them will better help you to decide on the benchtop that would be the most appropriate for your kitchen.

Marble or Granite

These marble and granite benchtops are available in diverse colours and consistencies. As these are purely natural materials, each benchtop looks unique or different from the other. Marble is softer than granite; hence for rough use always granite benchtops are preferable as they are strong enough with firm mold. Moreover, granite is scratch and stain resistant, endures high temperatures and doesn’t absorb fluids that easily; therefore it is tough and durable material and makes for an ideal kitchen benchtop. Marble tends to react to acids including food stuffs such as tomatoes, juices and vinegar. Very cold or hot items may inflate or deflate both marble and granite, so it is suggested that you do not put these items on your kitchen benchtops.

Engineered Quartz

An engineered quartz bench-top is made from natural quartz and it is one of nature’s toughest materials. This material is highly heat, scratch and stain resistant and doesn’t absorb fluids; hence it remains the most preferred and first-rate quality for modern kitchen benchtops. Harsh chemicals must be avoided and there is no requirement of any maintenance to retain its elegant look. It truly adds value to your property and will be a plus point when you want to sell your house and yes it is pricier than the laminated material.

Laminated

Laminated benchtops are reasonably priced, easy to maintain and doesn’t absorb fluids. You will get them in varied colours and polishes and they are one of the most affordable countertop materials available in the market. They are also neat looking, hassle-free and take lesser installation time. The drawback is that they do not react well with heat and are open to scratches and stains.