One of the most important decisions to make when planning a new kitchen (or renovating one) is which worktop material to go for. The worktop is not only functional, as it’s also a major visual feature. You’ll also need to consider how each material meets your needs and the way you will use your kitchen.
If you have your eye on a beautiful worktop straight out of an interior design magazine, it’s worth taking a second to look into how you will maintain it. It could be more time-consuming and expensive than you think. Here’s a quick look at the maintenance needs of the most popular kitchen worktop choices:
Real wood
If your worktop is solid wood, or has real wood as the surface layer, it will need oiling regularly. This is because wood and moisture don’t really mix, so the oil will prevent any spills or splashes from soaking in and spoiling the finish.
Wood worktops may also pick up scratches and scuffs over time. The good news is that they can be sanded away, but you may need a professional or some expertise to do it.
Laminate
Laminate worktops don’t need any regular maintenance and they are easy to clean, but they are still susceptible to scratches, heat marks and stains. To prevent problems like this, you should always use chopping boards and worktop protectors, and avoid putting hot pans directly onto the laminate.
Granite
Granite worktops are incredibly strong and durable, but the material is porous like wood. This means that it can be affected by water damage. Your worktops will need re-sealing, but the good news is that it will only need doing once every five years or so.
Concrete
Concrete is rising in popularity as a material for kitchen worktops, and it offers a great edgy look to a contemporary kitchen. However, it can stain easily if you aren’t careful, and you will need to protect it with a penetrative sealant treatment around every eight months or so.
Marble
One of the most luxurious kitchen worktop choices, marble is undeniably beautiful, and unique too. It is very hard and durable, but it can also scratch easily. Unfortunately, scratches in marble worktops are pretty much impossible to repair.
Stainless steel
The great thing about stainless steel worktops – another rising kitchen design trend – is that any scratches or wear marks only add to the attractive patina of the material. It’s really clean and very robust, but you will need to put the work in to keep it looking sparkling. This is because grease and finger marks show up clearly. You’ll also need to be careful not to dent it, but this shouldn’t be a problem with everyday use.
Another crucial thing that will keep your worktops in tip-top condition is the fitting. You need an expert kitchen fitter to make sure that joints fit snugly, so that no water can penetrate or any other damage is done. Give A&J Kitchens a call on 01942 873781 to discuss your kitchen renovation project – we’ll be happy to offer our expert advice on worktop choice, fitting and maintenance.
If you have your eye on a beautiful worktop straight out of an interior design magazine, it’s worth taking a second to look into how you will maintain it. It could be more time-consuming and expensive than you think. Here’s a quick look at the maintenance needs of the most popular kitchen worktop choices:
Real wood
If your worktop is solid wood, or has real wood as the surface layer, it will need oiling regularly. This is because wood and moisture don’t really mix, so the oil will prevent any spills or splashes from soaking in and spoiling the finish.
Wood worktops may also pick up scratches and scuffs over time. The good news is that they can be sanded away, but you may need a professional or some expertise to do it.
Laminate
Laminate worktops don’t need any regular maintenance and they are easy to clean, but they are still susceptible to scratches, heat marks and stains. To prevent problems like this, you should always use chopping boards and worktop protectors, and avoid putting hot pans directly onto the laminate.
Granite
Granite worktops are incredibly strong and durable, but the material is porous like wood. This means that it can be affected by water damage. Your worktops will need re-sealing, but the good news is that it will only need doing once every five years or so.
Concrete
Concrete is rising in popularity as a material for kitchen worktops, and it offers a great edgy look to a contemporary kitchen. However, it can stain easily if you aren’t careful, and you will need to protect it with a penetrative sealant treatment around every eight months or so.
Marble
One of the most luxurious kitchen worktop choices, marble is undeniably beautiful, and unique too. It is very hard and durable, but it can also scratch easily. Unfortunately, scratches in marble worktops are pretty much impossible to repair.
Stainless steel
The great thing about stainless steel worktops – another rising kitchen design trend – is that any scratches or wear marks only add to the attractive patina of the material. It’s really clean and very robust, but you will need to put the work in to keep it looking sparkling. This is because grease and finger marks show up clearly. You’ll also need to be careful not to dent it, but this shouldn’t be a problem with everyday use.
Another crucial thing that will keep your worktops in tip-top condition is the fitting. You need an expert kitchen fitter to make sure that joints fit snugly, so that no water can penetrate or any other damage is done. Give A&J Kitchens a call on 01942 873781 to discuss your kitchen renovation project – we’ll be happy to offer our expert advice on worktop choice, fitting and maintenance.
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