Want to install new kitchen benchtops in Perth? Are you confused about choosing the best countertop as per your lifestyle and homestyle? This blog is just meant for you. Read on till the end to get detailed knowledge about different countertops and decide on your own.
Choose The Benchtop Material
Various countertop materials may look attractive and appealing but aren’t ideal for specific households. Also, some kitchen countertops are prone to cracks and damage. If you aren’t able to maintain them, you shouldn’t install them in your house. Hence, you need to consciously think about the usage of your kitchen before determining what material will suit your kitchen.
Laminate Benchtops
Laminate benchtops are one of the most popular, affordable, and preferred benchtop materials. They come in various prints, styles, and colours. While choosing your laminate, you must be conscious about leaving water around and drying wet areas. If the water drips under the laminator layer, it will damage MDF boards.
Natural Stone benchtops
Amongst various natural stone benchtops available in the market, Marble, Quartz, and Granite are the most popular ones. The style and design of each slab are different and unique. It looks stunning and is meant for high-end luxury kitchens and homes.
Staining is the biggest risk of natural stone as it’s irreversible. You need to be careful using vinegar, red wine, spices, and even coffee.
Engineered Stone Benchtops
As the name suggests, engineered stone benchtops are man-made and cheaper than natural ones. It’s generally made of crushed stone with adhesive polymer resin or even cement mix. Modern manufacturing has been refined to the extent that there’s barely any difference between engineered stone and natural stone. But it’s drastically cheaper than the natural ones.
It’s more expensive than laminate benchtops but a great option to upgrade your kitchen. Some engineered stones are complete replicas of marble types like Carrara, Nero Marquina, etc.
Solid Surface Benchtops
Solid Surface Benchtops are generally made of mineral dust and plastic resin to give them texture and colour. Its surface is very different to touch and makes a seamless countertop. They usually have a matte finish rather than a glossy one. The only downside of it is it can stain easily.
Concrete Benchtops
Concrete benchtops have become popular as they give a feeling of minimalistic style. They are generally made to order and hence can be customised as per your preferences. Concrete countertops have an epoxy layer to prevent the water from seeping into the concrete and slowly eroding it. The downside to this is concrete basins need resealing every few years to ensure it is waterproof.
Wooden Benchtops
Wooden benchtops look beautiful but are difficult to maintain as they expand with water. Being in the kitchen means more use of water to prepare meals and clean dishes, and much more. Hence, it is not an ideal material for benchtops. But if you are prepared to give some extra time and care to maintain it, try this style.
Easy Cleaning
Cleaning your countertops is important to maintain the hygiene of your kitchen. It will also ensure that your kitchen counter looks brand new for a longer time. Choose solid surfaces for easy cleaning. You can easily wipe and clean quartz surfaces as compared to marble counters. Stainless steel is the best option for commercial kitchens because of its stain resistance.
Look and Feel
The ambience of the kitchen matters a lot. Modern kitchens have extraordinary features and designs that attract anyone to cook. Marble countertops bring an elegant look to the kitchen, whereas granite counters bring a natural and appealing ambience.
Kitchen Cabinet Design
It’s essential to consider the combinations and contrast of every element of your space in order to make an exquisite kitchen. If you are installing new counters while having old cabinets, pay great attention to their colour scheme.
Choose Colour
Colour can either make or break the look of your kitchen. It must align with other elements of your space and complement accessories. Choose a colour that elevates the appearance of your kitchen. For instance,
White – It gives a clean and light look to your kitchen, making it appear bright and big.
Beige – It goes with anything, from light to dark kitchen accessories.
Brown – It is great for country-style kitchens
Black – It goes with the modern ambience that has white-coloured cabinets and easily hides stains.
Home Layout
Your kitchen must complement your home’s overall look and theme. It’s essential to choose a kitchen design that aligns with the style of your house. Choose modern countertop designs like marbles or laminate if you have a modern home. If you have a traditional one, go for wooden countertops that give a rustic look.
Budget
Installing countertops is not cheap. You need to determine the budget before choosing the countertops for your kitchen. Be realistic and consider various things before deciding on the budget. After determining the budget, select options that fit your budget and preferences. Don’t make any decision in the air. If you don’t know where to begin, consult an expert who can suggest the best option for your kitchen.
