If you’re planning a new look for your kitchen, you’re no doubt interested in the types of kitchen worktops available. No matter whether you’re intending a complete re-design of your kitchen or you’re just sprucing it up by perhaps changing the cupboard doors or the worktop, one of the biggest decisions you’re likely to make is the type of worktop you choose.
There are essentially four different types of kitchen worktop in common use today. These include laminate, granite and wood as well as what we’ve chosen to call “Other worktops”. The other worktops option includes such things as polished concrete, slate, glass and so on, which can be really appealing, but aren’t so commonly used as the other three. In order to help you work out which type of kitchen worktop might suit your needs best, we’ll outline what’s meant by each and then have a look at the pros and cons of each.
Laminate worktops
Laminate worktops are, without a doubt amongst the most commonly used worktops in the UK. This is partly because they’re so affordable, hygienic and easy to fit, as well as coming in a whole range of styles and finishes. Taking on the look of fake wood, fake granite or in some stunning single colours, laminate worktops can be made to look great, and are without a doubt easy to clean.
All of that said, cheap and easy to clean are only two factors to consider. The durability of certain cheaper laminates can make the choice of a laminate worktop false economy. High quality laminates should last reasonably well, but cheap laminates have a tendency to look worn and tired pretty quickly, as well as suffering around the edges from ongoing moisture penetration.
So, if you fancy a worktop option which only comes in laminate, it’s well worth paying as much as your budget will stretch to in order to get yourself a laminate which has a good chance of going the full distance.
Granite worktops
Initially associated with designer kitchens in the homes of the rich and famous, granite worktops in recent years have become much more accessible and affordable. One of the main attractions of granite is that no two pieces are the same. Because it is a natural product, granite sourced from different locations looks different and takes on different characteristics. Add to this, the fact that granite is highly durable, heat resistant and easy to clean, and it’s easy to see why this is the option desired by so many.
On the downside, granite is pricey and can take harm from some acidic based spills (red wine and fruit juice, for example, can both play havoc with certain types of granite worktop, so beware!). The other main downside of granite is that it’s definitely not a DIY installation option, unless you’re some sort of DIY aficionado. Add to this it’s weight, which often calls for kitchen units to be reinforced and it becomes easy to reach the conclusion that you’d be better finding an alternative.
Wood worktops
The great thing about wood worktops is that there’s such a huge variety. No matter the style you’re hoping to create, there should be a wood to match. Modern or traditional, country charm or shabby chic, you’re pretty much certain to find a wood that suits, and of course, just like granite, every piece of wood is completely unique, which adds to its charm.
Unlike granite, wood varies in price enormously from the cheapest to the most expensive (although most woods will be more affordable than most granites) and what you end up paying will depend very much upon the size, thickness, species and grade of wood you choose. Price will also be influenced to a slight extent by things like finish, but less so. When it comes to fitting, any accomplished DIY-er would normally have no problem fitting a wooden worktop. As well as this, most suppliers offer a cut to size/template service, which makes the fitting process even easier. Add to this, the fact that wood is easy to clean, and it becomes a very attractive option.
On the downside, wood does need regular care and looking after and this is often what gets wood worktops a bad press. If you look after your worktop properly and conscientiously, you’ll have no problems with it, but fail to look after it and it could look shabby very quickly. It’s not too hard to look after wood properly. All you need to do is oil all the surfaces well before fitting and then oil them on a regular basis thereafter. It’s also important to mop up stains as soon as practically possible after they happen, because it’s those stains that can be the root cause of most problems. Just as you would with laminate, you should take care not to chop directly on your worktop or place hot items on its surface as both of these will play havoc with the finish.
Other worktops
In addition to the three main types of worktop we’ve discussed above, there are now things like glass, resin, polished cement and slate options to name but a few. There are also a host of completely bespoke colouring and design options, if you really want to push the boat out. That said, if you’re opting for one of the less common types of kitchen worktop, it’s well worth doing a bit of research about your preferred option before getting your cheque book out. Check out things like durability, ease of cleaning, maintenance requirements, heat and water resistance as well as repair possibilities as an absolute minimum.
Table Comparison of Kitchen Worktop Types
| Worktop Type | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laminate Worktops | Made up of synthetic materials, designed to look like wood or granite. | Affordable, hygienic, easy to fit, comes in a variety of styles and finishes. | Cheaper laminates can wear out quickly. Can be damaged by ongoing moisture penetration. |
| Granite Worktops | Made from a natural product, each piece is unique. | Highly durable, heat resistant, and easy to clean. | Pricey, requires professional installation, can be damaged by acidic spills. Requires reinforcement due to its weight. |
| Wood Worktops | Comes in a variety of wood types, each piece is unique. | Varying prices, easily fits in with many styles. | Requires regular care and maintenance. Needs oiling before fitting and regularly thereafter. |
| Other Worktops (Glass, Resin, Polished Cement, Slate) | A range of materials, each with unique characteristics. | Offers a bespoke design. | May require more research on durability, cleaning, maintenance requirements, heat and water resistance, and repair possibilities. |
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FAQ
1. What are the common types of kitchen worktops?
There are essentially four different types of kitchen worktops in common use today. These include laminate, granite, wood, and other worktops, which include materials such as polished concrete, slate, and glass.
2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of laminate worktops?
Laminate worktops are affordable, hygienic, and easy to fit, with a range of styles and finishes. However, cheaper laminates may wear out quickly and suffer from ongoing moisture penetration. High-quality laminates should last reasonably well.
3. What should I consider when choosing a granite worktop?
Granite worktops are highly durable, heat resistant, easy to clean, and unique in appearance. However, they are pricey, not suitable for DIY installation due to their weight, and can be damaged by some acidic spills like red wine and fruit juice.
4. Are wood worktops a good option for a kitchen?
Wood worktops offer a huge variety in styles, are affordable, and unique in appearance. Most are easy to clean and DIY-friendly. However, they require regular care and maintenance, including regular oiling and immediate clean-up of stains to prevent damage.
5. What are other types of kitchen worktops?
In addition to laminate, granite, and wood, there are worktops made from materials like glass, resin, polished cement, and slate. These less common types can offer unique aesthetics and bespoke design options. However, they may have varying levels of durability, ease of cleaning, maintenance requirements, heat and water resistance, and repair possibilities.