During a kitchen remodel, you'll have a choice of various countertop materials. Whichever you opt for will depend on your aesthetic taste and other practical factors. Here are several possibilities to consider for your kitchen benchtop.
Timber
Timber is a classic option that suits diverse kitchen styles. You can choose from hardwood species such as Tasmanian Oak, Blackbutt and Ironbark, which collectively provide colours such as tan, pink, honey and chocolate. Wood brings a uniquely warm, soft ambience that other materials can't offer. Even natural stone feels colder and harder. Additionally, a timber benchtop doesn't make loud, clunky noises when you set dishes on it, so it's peaceful to work with. Plus, it's gentle on cups and crockery, which are less likely to break than on stone.
However, you need to seal or oil timber regularly. It's relatively soft, so it can develop dents and scratches over time. You may think that such imperfections add to the charm of the countertop. In any case, you can resand the wooden slab and carve off the top layer, making the benchtop look new again.
For a different look, you could also choose repurposed timber. This weathered wood adds more visual interest. Another option is bamboo, a fast-growing grass that is eco-friendly.
Granite
Granite is a popular kitchen counter material. It's relatively hard and tough, especially compared to marble, which is softer and more susceptible to etching. However, you'll need to seal a granite counter as all stone is porous. Bear in mind that darker granite can be harder and less prone to staining than lighter coloured granite. Stone is a relatively heavy material, which means the cabinetry must be sturdy enough to bear its weight.
Granite comes in various shades, including brown, blue, grey, gold and red. Each slab uniquely blends hues and patterns. Part of the appeal of these counters is their unmistakable organic nature. Each slab's tones and patterns fluctuate according to the mineral deposits within that have formed over eons.
Laminate
Another possibility for your kitchen is laminate, which is low-maintenance. It doesn't require any kind of sealing or oiling. Make sure to use cutting boards and trivets, though, as laminate can scratch and scorch.
Laminate kitchen benchtops consist of an inner particleboard core covered with decorative paper and a hard plastic film. The decorative paper gives the countertop its designs, colours and patterns. This layer can show a uniform hue like beige, charcoal or white. Plus, it can exhibit a photograph of timber or natural stone to create a countertop that mimics these substances.
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