Kitchen worktop materials: 7 Materials For Kitchen Worktops

Materials for kitchen worktops: which to choose

Materials for kitchen worktops must be resistant and durable. Let’s look at the best ones and find out how to choose the right solution for you.

A kitchen worktop is an essential element that very often determines the personality of the entire area, particularly when islands or peninsulas extend the kitchen into the living room. But when choosing the material for a worktop, aesthetics is not the only consideration. Functionality is important, taking into account where the worktop will be situated, the type and intensity of use, and users’ habits and needs.

Nowadays the market offers a practically infinite choice of materials, so choosing one is not an easy task. However, a functional, hygienic worktop that does not lose its initial good looks and resistance must have certain characteristics that determine its quality and, as we shall see, will condition our choice of material.

THE QUALITIES OF A GOOD KITCHEN WORKTOP

Kitchen worktops must be chosen with great care, considering not just aesthetics, but also and above all other fundamental characteristics essential for a quality worktop.
Although good looks are certainly important, features such as ease of cleaning and resistance are the ones that guarantee duration and stability over time.
So let’s see the fundamental qualities for a kitchen worktop.

Aesthetics
Appearance also counts, especially for an element that has a strong impact on its surroundings, like a kitchen worktop. Some materials are more customisable than others, in terms of colours and finishes. Stainless steel, for example, has practically no colour variations, but it can be polished, or have a satin or brushed finish. On the other hand, the different veining of marble brings a unique natural finish to a worktop. Other materials come in different colours with a choice of glossy or matt finishes.

Resistance
Kitchen worktops come under continuous strain because of how they are used and their position in contact with heat from cooking hobs and water from sinks. A good worktop should not be affected by cutting food directly on its surface without a chopping board. That means it must be resistant to cuts, scratches, scuffs and knocks. It must also resist heat and thermal shocks so that hot pans and oven trays can be placed on it without causing damage. Humidity is another issue, as it is important to avoid the appearance of mould along the edges of the sink. Finally, it must be resistant to natural acids such as those from lemons, vinegar and tomatoes, and the chemical ones in degreasing agents. 

Practicality and Hygiene
These qualities are mainly determined by the porosity of the worktop material and its capacity to absorb liquids. It is also necessary for worktop material not to be sensitive to the most common cleaning products so that cleanliness and hygiene are ensured without the risk of water marks or fading colours. For even easier cleaning, the worktop should be a single element, with no joints or spaces where dirt could accumulate or liquids stagnate. 

WHICH MATERIALS FOR A KITCHEN WORKTOP

Of the vast range of materials on the market, not all meet the needs of frequent or continuous use. Although not very functional, they are suitable for aesthetic solutions, for example in a holiday home kitchen that’s used sporadically for simple operations. The most suitable materials available for a kitchen worktop are:

• Laminate
• HPL Laminate
• Fenix
• Quartz
• Resin
• Stoneware
• Stainless Steel
• Marble/Granite

CHARACTERISTICS AND PROS AND CONS OF DIFFERENT MATERIALS

Now let’s analyse the main materials for kitchen worktops, one by one.

LAMINATE

An economical and extremely versatile material that replicates the aesthetics of materials that are more expensive but lack the characteristics that make them suitable for worktops, such as natural wood, for example. Laminate is highly resistant to scratches and knocks and is very easy to keep clean. However, it does need insulating from direct sources of heat, cannot be exposed directly to UV rays, which would fade the colours, and should not have joints in which humidity could accumulate.

HPL LAMINATE

High Pressure Laminate is an evolution of traditional laminate, and is produced by subjecting layers of cellulose fibres and heat-setting resins to high pressure. The result is a non-porous, homogeneous material to which the final finish required by the customer is applied.
Compared to traditional laminate, HPL is resistant to liquids and heat, but it can also be treated to make it fire resistant or antibacterial. In addition, it is stable under light and does not discolour or fade if exposed to UV rays. It combines affordable costs and versatility with qualities such as strength and longevity. Gentili Cucine provides layered laminate with 15 different finishes that include the same ones used for cabinet doors in traditional laminate. In this way the customer can choose the kitchen worktop colour they prefer for their style of kitchen, which may be monochromatic or feature diverse colour combinations.

FENIX

The latest evolution for laminates, Fenix is produced with nanotechnologies and not only has the qualities of all laminates, but also special features, such as, for example, a smooth, matt finish that’s pleasant to touch and fingerprint proof. However, its main quality is the fact that scratches and scuffs can be repaired using heat, returning a damaged surface to its pristine condition. Hygienic, versatile, resistant and durable, Fenix is also great value for money, making it more and more popular for kitchen worktops.

QUARTZ

Quartz agglomerates comprise high percentages (up to 95%) of quartz crystals combined with glass, resins and coloured pigments to enhance their aesthetics and strength. They can be used for customised kitchen worktops because the final texture is unique and unrepeatable, with a smooth non-porous surface that protects it from liquids and makes it hygienic and easy to clean. Quartz is resistant to acids, knocks, scratches and scuffs. However, it can be spoiled by thermal shock: use a pan stand in insulated material such as cork, wood or silicone when putting hot pans on the worktop.

STONEWARE/LAMINAM

Stoneware is extremely resistant to acids and solvents, water repellant, and heat and stain proof, making it one of the most suitable materials for kitchen worktops. Gentili Cucine uses stoneware in 12 or 20mm thick slabs with a choice of 18 standard finishes. Exclusive processing of Laminam includes photocatalysis that makes the material self-cleaning. To this can be added extremely easy maintenance that does not compromise its characteristics even with intense use.

STAINLESS STEEL

The preferred material for professional kitchens and intensive use, due to its resistance and ease of maintenance. Its main qualities certainly include longevity and the fact that it is water repellant, easy to clean, hygienic and heat resistant.
Although its surface can be easily scratched and scuffed, it provides extremely practical, minimal style worktops that need just a little attention.
Stainless steel is available polished or with a satin or brushed finish. An advantage of the latter two solutions is that they are not easily marked by fingerprints or watermarks, but in any case a wipe over with a sponge will make the steel surface shine again.

There are lots of types of resin for kitchen worktops, but in general it is a synthetic material that applies a continuous finish directly onto a stiff backing. That’s why resin is one of the most suitable solutions for renovating an existing, worn worktop or changing the style of the kitchen. Resins comprise heat-setting polymers that are pliant and create stunning effects in an almost infinite range of glossy, semi-glossy and matt finishes. Water repellant, easy to clean, resistant to knocks and scuffs, resin is a durable material, non-toxic and tolerant of chemicals and thermal shocks. As some resin compositions may be prone to scratching, it’s always a good idea to find out about the type of resin to be used and if necessary take care when choosing it for a kitchen worktop. 

MARBLE/GRANITE

Natural stone has always been used for kitchen worktops because it is strong and easy to maintain. Marble is particularly suitable for direct contact with food and was traditionally used for kneading and rolling out dough in bakeries, pizzerias and kitchens specialising in freshly made pasta. Available in an almost infinite variety of colours and shades, it brings elegance and timeless exclusiveness to the kitchen. It can be attacked by acids and damaged by violent, direct knocks, but just a little attention keeps a marble worktop in pristine condition. Granite is slightly more porous, but it is more resistant than marble and brings with it the strong character typical of the traditional kitchens of the past. Impervious to chemicals and acids, granite is practically indestructible and will ensure a long life for any kitchen worktop that features it.

What is the best kitchen worktop material? A buyers guide

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We’re guessing you’re here because you’re trying to choose worktops for your kitchen, but you’re confused by all the different countertop materials.

We get it. It’s not an easy choice because there are so many kitchen work surface materials available. And they all have their advantages and disadvantages.

So, we’ve pulled this guide together to help you decide which worktop material is best for you. It covers the most popular countertop materials available, what they’re made of and lists their pros and cons.

Laminate worktops

Laminate worktops have a high-density chipboard core that’s covered with a plastic laminate sheet.

Laminate worktop pros:

• Low prices: laminate is the cheapest worktop material available.
• Lots of choice: there’s a huge range of colours and patterns to choose from, including many that look like stone materials.
• DIY installation: laminate can be cut with woodworking tools, so installation is cheap and easy.
• Get them straight away: laminate comes in ready to buy slabs you can pick up from a DIY store.
• Maintenance-free: once laminate is installed, just clean it with soapy water.
• Durable: despite being cheap, laminate is resistant to stains, heat and scratches.
• Cheap to replace: if your worktop gets damaged, it’s cheap and easy to swap it.

Laminate worktop cons:

• Limited design choices: laminate only comes in straight pieces, and any cuts reveal chipboard. This means they can’t be cut into curves (to match curved cabinets), and they aren’t suitable for use with undermount sinks or flush-mounted hobs.
• Poor quality finish: the side edges of these worktops aren’t covered with laminate, which means chipboard will be exposed at the end of a worktop run. The edges are covered with colour-matched laminate tape, but the tape can peel or chip away over time.
• Not scratch or heat-proof: we’ve said laminate is durable, and it is scratch and heat ‘resistant’…. But it’s not scratch and heat ‘proof’. So, you need to be careful and use a chopping board and hot pan trivets.
• Damaged by water ingress: if a join in the worktop fails, water can seep through to the chipboard core and cause the laminate to blow.

The verdict

Laminate worktops can look fantastic in the right kitchen, and they’re a great choice if you’re on a tight budget. But, if you’re going for high-end kitchen cabinets, be aware that laminate will cheapen the overall look.

Solid wood worktops

Solid wood worktops are precisely that – worktops made from solid wood. Oak is the most popular choice. But there are other woods available as worktops, such as beech, ash, birch and walnut.

Solid wood worktop pros:

• Low prices: solid wood is one of the cheapest worktop materials available, second only to laminate.
• Lots of colour choices: wood comes in a good range of colours, from light maple to dark walnut and cherry red.
• Unlimited design choices: wood can be cut into any shape, which means you can have curved cabinets or an unusual breakfast bar. It’s also suitable for use with an undermount sink.
• DIY installation: wood can be cut with woodworking tools, so installation is cheap and easy.
• Get them straight away: wood worktops come in ready to buy slabs you can pick up from a DIY store.
• Repairable: scratches, scorch marks and stains can be sanded away.
• Durable: when it’s properly looked after (see cons), wood is durable and long-lasting.
• Ages well: as a natural product, wood’s appearance improves with age.

Solid wood worktop cons:

• High maintenance: wood needs a lot of care to keep it looking good. Its natural oil will slowly dry out, so it needs to be oiled with linseed or tung oil at least once a year.
• Easily damaged: wood worktops are prone to scorching, staining and scratches, so it’s essential to use hot pan trivets and chopping boards.

The verdict

Solid wood worktops are perfect for country-style kitchens. They look beautiful and are cheap to buy and install. But they can get damaged easily, so you need to look after them carefully.

Quartz worktops

Quartz worktops are made from a mix of quartz minerals and resin. You need to be careful when buying quartz because there’s a lot of cheap, low-quality quartz on the market. So, if you choose quartz, it’s best to stick with a good brand, such as Silestone® or Caesarstone®.

Quartz worktop pros:

• Lots of choice: there’s a huge range of colours and patterns to choose from.
• Cheaper alternative to natural stone: quartz is a stone mineral, so quartz worktops look like natural stone but come with a lower price tag.
• Unlimited design choices: quartz can be cut into any shape, which means you can have curved cabinets or an unusual breakfast bar. It’s also suitable for use with an undermount sink and flush-mounted hob. And you can have drainer grooves, or a recessed drainer, cut into the surface.
• Maintenance-free: once quartz is installed, just clean it with soapy water.
• Durable: quartz varies, but good, branded quartz, like Silestone® or Caesarstone®, will resist stains and scratches. And they can come with warranties lasting up to 25 years.

Quartz worktop cons:

• High price: good, high-quality quartz isn’t cheap, but it does offer value for money.
• Requires specialist installation: quartz worktops are custom made for every kitchen because they must be cut by experts using specialist equipment. This means installation costs are involved, and you will have to wait a few weeks for your worktops.
• Not heat-proof: hot pans can damage quartz surfaces, so they must be protected with a trivet.

The verdict

Quartz is an excellent worktop material, as long as you buy a high-quality brand. It’s mid-range in terms of price, and it will look fantastic in any kitchen. It’s long-lasting, but you do need to be careful with hot pans.

Sintered stone worktops

Sintered stone worktops are made from engineered stone. They’re made purely from natural minerals (such as glass, porcelain, quartz and other crushed stones) and don’t contain man-made resins. They’re often called solid surface or ultra-compact worktops. Some popular brands include Dekton®, Neolith® and XTone®.

Sintered stone worktop pros:

• Lots of choice: there’s a huge range of colours and patterns to choose from.
• Cheaper alternative to natural stone: many styles are available that replicate natural stones, such as granite and marble.
• High quality: sintered stone is a premium countertop material.
• Unlimited design choices: sintered stone can be cut into any shape, which means you can have curved cabinets or an unusual breakfast bar. It’s also suitable for use with an undermount sink and flush-mounted hob. And you can have drainer grooves, or a recessed drainer, cut into the surface.
• Maintenance-free: once sintered stone is installed, just clean it with soapy water.
• Durable: each brand varies, but most are highly resistant to stains, scratches and heat. Some are also UV-resistant, which means they’re great for outdoor or sunny kitchens. And they come with warranties that can last from 10-25 years, depending on the brand.

Sintered stone worktop cons:

• High price: sintered stone is not a cheap worktop material. However, it’s a high-quality material that’s incredibly durable, so it’s excellent value for money.
• Requires specialist installation: sintered stone worktops are custom made for every kitchen because they must be cut by experts using specialist equipment. This means installation costs are involved, and you will have to wait a few weeks for your worktops.

The verdict

Sintered stone is one of the best worktop materials available. It does come with a high price tag, and there’s a bit of a wait to get it installed, but it’s well worth paying the extra if it’s within your budget.

Acrylic worktops

Acrylic worktops are made from a mix of resins and natural minerals. They’re often called solid- surface worktops, and they have a similar feel to natural stone. Most people know acrylic worktops as Corian® worktops. But actually, Corian® is just one brand (the original acrylic worktop brand). Other great acrylic worktop brands include HI-MACS®, Hanex® and Tristone™.

Acrylic worktop pros:

• Lots of choice: there’s a huge range of colours and patterns to choose from.
• Cheaper alternative to natural stone: many styles are available that replicate natural stones, such as granite and marble.
• High quality: acrylic is a high-quality countertop material.
• Inconspicuous joins: acrylic is the only worktop material that can be joined without leaving visible lines. This gives the worktops a beautifully seamless look.
• Unlimited design choices: acrylic can be cut into any shape, which means you can have curved cabinets or an unusual breakfast bar. It’s also suitable for use with an undermount sink and flush-mounted hob. And you can have drainer grooves, or a recessed drainer, cut into the surface.
• Repairable: scratches, scorch marks and stains can be sanded away with an abrasive cleaner and scouring pad.
• Maintenance-free: once acrylic is installed, just clean it with soapy water.
• Durable: all acrylic worktop brands are stain and impact resistant. And they come with a 10-year warranty.

Acrylic worktop cons:

• High price: acrylic is not a cheap worktop material. However, it’s a high-quality material that’s incredibly durable, so it’s excellent value for money.
• Specialist installation recommended: acrylic worktops can be purchased in straight runs, and it’s possible to install them yourself. However, as they are a premium product, we’d recommend getting expert fitting, so the finish is high-end and flawless. This means installation costs are involved, and you will have to wait a few weeks for your worktop, but the results will be worth it.

The verdict

Acrylic is one of the best worktop materials available in terms of looks and durability. It’s not a cheap worktop material, but it’s a great alternative to more pricey natural stones. In addition, it’s the only worktop material that has inconspicuous joins. And, apart from wood, which needs a lot of maintenance, it’s the only man-made worktop that can be repaired.

Granite worktops

Granite is a natural stone that forms over millions of years in the ground. It’s dug up in huge blocks and cut into worktops.

Granite worktop pros:

• Unique: granite forms naturally in the ground, so no two pieces are ever the same.
• High quality: granite is a premium worktop material with a glossy appearance.
• Unlimited design choices: granite can be cut into any shape, which means you can have curved cabinets or an unusual breakfast bar. It’s also suitable for use with an undermount sink and flush-mounted hob. And you can have drainer grooves, or a recessed drainer, cut into the surface.
• Durable: granite is scratch, heat and stain resistant (if it’s sealed – see cons).

Granite worktop cons:

• Fewer colours: as we have to rely on the colours nature gives us, the range available is more limited than man-made worktop materials.
• High price: granite is one of the most expensive worktop materials available. However, it’s a premium-quality, natural product that’s incredibly durable, so it’s excellent value for money.
• Requires specialist installation: granite worktops are custom cut for every kitchen because they must be cut by experts using specialist equipment. This means installation costs are involved, and you will have to wait a few weeks for your worktops.
• High maintenance: granite worktops must be sealed. Most granite comes pre-sealed when you buy it, but you’ll need to re-seal it once a year.

The verdict

Granite is one of the best worktop materials available when it comes to durability and looks. It’s expensive and needs to be regularly sealed to maintain it, but it’s well worth paying the extra if you have a high-end kitchen.

Marble worktops

Just like granite, marble is a natural stone (a type of limestone) that’s compressed into a hard rock under the earth’s surface over millions of years. Then it’s dug up in huge blocks and cut into worktops.

Marble worktop pros:

• Unique: as marble is a natural product, no two pieces are ever the same.
• Lots of choice: even though marble is a natural product, a surprisingly extensive range of colours and patterns is available.
• Premium quality: marble is the ultimate worktop material when it comes to luxury.
• Unlimited design choices: marble can be cut into any shape, which means you can have curved cabinets or an unusual breakfast bar. It’s also suitable for use with an undermount sink and flush-mounted hob. And you can have drainer grooves, or a recessed drainer, cut into the surface.
• Great for bakers: marble stays cool to the touch, making it ideal for pastry and bread making.

Marble worktop cons:

• High price: marble is one of the most expensive worktop materials available. It is a premium-quality, natural product, but it’s not very durable. So, although it will look beautiful in your kitchen, you’ll need to be very careful with it.
• Prone to damage: marble is a porous surface, so it isn’t heat-proof, stain-proof or scratch-proof. It can also chip easily. So, chopping boards and trivets must be used on marble work surfaces. And spills must be wiped away quickly.
• High maintenance: marble worktops should be professionally sealed every six months to help reduce instances of staining and scratching.
• Visible joins: on veined slabs, joins across two pieces of worktop are very noticeable.
• Requires specialist installation: marble worktops are custom cut for every kitchen because they must be cut by experts using specialist equipment. This means installation costs are involved, and you will have to wait a few weeks for your worktops.

The verdict

Marble is a premium worktop that comes with a premium price tag. There’s no doubt that it will look stunning in a high-end kitchen. But maintenance and the chance of damaging it is high.

So, what is the best kitchen worktop material?

Only you can decide which countertop material is best for you. But now you’re armed with all the facts, you can weigh up the pros and cons against your budget, lifestyle and design preferences.

And, if you need more help, give us a call on 0800 0614722 or send us a message through our contact form. We have over 10 years of experience supplying and fitting worktops at affordable prices across the UK. Browse our acrylic worktop range or visit our Signature Worktops website to see our sintered stone, quartz and granite ranges.

Kitchen worktops. What materials are they made of

In the kitchen, pieces of furniture are subjected to serious tests, so it is very important that they are made from exceptionally high quality materials.

An important piece of kitchen furniture is the worktop. We offer to consider the materials used for countertops, their advantages and disadvantages.

Kitchen worktops are available in wood, steel, stone (natural or artificial), laminated chipboard. Countertops made of these materials cost differently, have their own individual characteristics, pluses and minuses during operation.

When choosing the material from which the worktop will be made, it is imperative to take into account the design style of the room and kitchen furniture.

Wood

Wood is a common worktop material. Such a work surface is organic in any kitchen interiors.

Its manufacture mainly involves the use of typesetting boards made of hardwood in the form of plates, followed by their gluing and careful grinding.

Moisture resistance, strength, resistance to temperatures, the ability to withstand adverse factors – all this is ensured by treating the wooden tabletop with special oils.

The main advantage of such a countertop is environmental friendliness, which is very important for the kitchen.

Wooden tabletop will last a long time if cared for with special protective equipment.

Laminated chipboard or compact board

Chipboard is by far the most popular countertop material available today. This is due to the affordable price of the material.

In addition, laminated chipboard can imitate any material and be produced in any color.

Material will not fade. Vulnerabilities of chipboard countertops are the seams, so it is very important that they are protected from moisture. With proper operation and proper care, a work surface made of chipboard will last a long time. We recommend Duropal German countertops for use in the kitchen. They are resistant to scratches, household shocks, moisture and high temperatures. Large selection of decors and affordability. The quality of Duropal countertops will pleasantly surprise you.

Acrylic plastic

The usual name for this material is artificial stone. Practicality and affordability have made it very popular in the manufacture of kitchen furniture.

Artificial stone looks very similar to natural stone. Acrylic plastic is easy to mold. It is beautiful, durable, reliable and moisture resistant. True, the material is afraid of high temperatures, so hot objects cannot be placed on a tabletop made from it. Very afraid of scratches, you will often have to grind, and this is an additional cost. Chips and scratches make the countertop look not entirely pleasant.

Natural stone: granite, marble, basalt

The cost of natural stone countertops is, of course, higher than that of artificial stone. It is worth considering that you can choose a stone countertop if the furniture is strong enough to withstand a heavy work surface.

The thickness of granite or basalt slabs does not exceed 3 cm. Holes are specially made for the installation of kitchen equipment.

The indisputable advantage of stone countertops is strength, beautiful appearance and durability. The countertop itself, and the kitchen furniture, will cost a lot – the work surface is quite massive, so you can’t do without the use of additional reinforced fasteners. Stone countertops have a big minus, they are porous and absorb all liquids.

Marble does not require complex processing methods. It is a stone of medium hardness, therefore it is afraid of acids and mechanical influences.

However, the marble top is not afraid of moisture, fire and temperature.

Steel

Furniture fashion trends, including kitchen furnishings, welcome the use of metal elements. This also applies to countertops.

Most professional kitchens have steel worktops. They are durable, easy to use and maintain.

Work surfaces made of stainless steel are indifferent to moisture, temperature changes, and acids.

Glass

Designers’ favorite material for modern and stylish worktops. Tempered glass is impact and moisture resistant.

True, in order to prevent the appearance of plaque, stains, scratches, it is necessary to operate the glass tabletop very carefully and carefully.

After analyzing the advantages and disadvantages of all materials, it will not be difficult to choose the right one for making a worktop. In this case, you need to take into account the design of furniture, your preferences and the size of the budget. You can get more detailed information on the selection and operation of kitchen worktops, as well as choose and buy a kitchen worktop in our “Kitchen Worktops” store or by calling 8 (029) 328-98-98 or 8 (029) 329-89-89 our website www.stoleshnica.by. We have a large selection.

Worktop material, popular options overview

• Quality products
• Company Reliability
• Individual approach
• Flexible payment system

Our products

Much of the cooking process takes place on the kitchen table. In many kitchens, the countertop is not only a work surface, but also serves as a dining table, at which not only the whole family, but also guests gather.

Much of the cooking process takes place on the kitchen table. In many kitchens, the countertop is not only a work surface, but also serves as a dining table, at which not only the whole family, but also guests gather.

Special requirements apply to this surface:

1. Heat resistance, the material must not react to high room temperatures.
2. Low hygroscopicity, which will not allow the material to absorb moisture.
3. Mechanical strength, ability to withstand impact loads, such as when beating meat.
4. The tabletop should be made of environmentally friendly material, easy to clean.
5. External attractiveness.
6. Reasonable price.

Laminated chipboard and MDF boards

This material is the most commonly used and is very affordable. The product is made of chipboard or MDF, covered with plastic, laminated.

Advantages:

• surface imitates natural or artificial stone, wood;
• has a small mass;
• hygienic;
• is easy to install;
• a wide range of colors, as well as manufacturers.
• has a low cost.

Disadvantages:

• not resistant to dyes and other aggressive liquids
• the ability to absorb moisture and swell;
• low mechanical strength;
• poor heat resistance;
• the presence of toxic resins in chipboard;
• short shelf life (average 5 years).

MDF sheet (fine fraction) does not contain harmful substances, but it needs additional processing, has a higher price.

Stainless steel

These countertops are more commonly used in professional kitchens. To make such a countertop, it is necessary to sheathe the chipboard with sheets of stainless steel and clean the edges.

Pros:

1. Good wear resistance and durability.
2. The material is hygienic and resistant to aggressive liquids.
3. One of the best indicators in terms of sanitary and hygienic standards.
4. Easily rinses away any dirt.
5. The surface can be mirror, matt, embossed.

Cons:

1. Fits a very limited number of kitchen styles.
2. The table top is very practical, but point impacts must be avoided.
3. The price of the product is quite high.
4. Loses shine during use.

Natural wood

This is one of the most environmentally friendly and expensive options. Most often, when natural wood countertops are made of oak, beech or ash, larch, birch or pine are less commonly used.

Advantages:

1. The tabletop is very attractive, brings coziness and comfort.
2. Pleasant tactile sensations on contact.
3. Average cost.
4. Resistant to moisture if properly varnished and cared for.
5. Easy to restore.
6. Possibility of self-grinding and polishing.

This surface has some disadvantages:

1. Inability to use many cleaning agents, as they leave stains on the surface.
2. Low mechanical strength.
3. The need to use special supports for hot dishes.
4. Mechanical damage can act as a breeding ground for microbes.
5. Requires regular, thorough maintenance.

Currently, in Russia, as well as in Europe, solid wood countertops are at the peak of their popularity.

Natural stone

A countertop made of natural granite, basalt or marble helps emphasize the aristocracy of the interior. It is easy to care for, durable, resistant to moisture. The disadvantages include the fact that the surface of the stone is capricious, it needs special care, coating with protective solutions. It is necessary to try to avoid contact of the surface with chemical detergents, with dyes. In case of damage, it will not be possible to restore the surface. When making a table, it is necessary to take into account the large mass of the tabletop.

Artificial stone

For production, a mixture of quartz or granite chips with polymer resins is used. Artificial stone is resistant to moisture and chemicals. Products have high mechanical strength, do not contain seams. The characteristics are almost the same as those of a natural stone countertop.

Concrete

This material is very common in European kitchens, but it is still new here. At the stage of preparing the solution, it can be given any color, diluted with granules of colored glass or natural stone. You can cast a table of any original shape. The material perfectly withstands high temperatures, exposure to moisture and caustic liquids, mechanical shocks. The countertop must be treated with protective solutions.

Glass

The glass top looks very impressive, but be aware of its fragility.